[USER]

My very small company is in the final phases of a merger with a very large international company.

I’m going to give it a try, but I’m really not sure the big corporate thing is for me.

That said, I’m not where I want to be with my EF, I have a car payment as well, unfortunately.

It’s killing me to think I need to stop retirement contributions to plump up the EF, but I think it’s the right move, in case this job doesn’t work out.

Looking for insight, confirmation, advice that this is the right move or not.

I have until the end of the year before I start at the new place.

Thank you!

[Sarah]

You need to get a contract from them. I see small companies acquired all the time and they promise to keep the small fries on board. But as soon as roles overlap, layoffs happen.

I work as a materials supplier in the construction and ready mix industry so the little guys are always being either put out of business or bought up by the big guys.

I assume you’re also signing a non compete so, do not sign that until you have an employment contract in hand.

[Ashley]

Yes, EF should be a priority (and now you have learned why). You’ll have time to focus on retirement again soon. And give this merger a chance.

As always, attitude is everything…but especially with mergers.

[Sarah]

You might not like the corporate environment but working for a larger company you may have better options for 401k, health insurance and other benefits that smaller companies can’t always afford or prioritize.

You need to consider the whole package.

[Eric]

Option 3 is to try and reduce other spending until the dust settles or a combination of the 3. Slim back retirement to the matching and beef it up.

If you get to the end and it’s solid, no layoffs, etc then get back into it.

6 months won’t mean the difference between retiring or not.

[Brian]

Emergency fund should always come before any retirement savings. The only possible exception would be an employer match on a 401k.

[Author]

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