Aflac Employees: Is your state tax-friendly? Here are the most and least taxed states in America

The tax landscape of potential Retirement locations can affect Aflac employees - moving to a tax-friendly state could reduce taxes and increase savings for Retirement, said (Advisor Name), a representative of the Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

The right place to retire could save you big bucks for those nearing Retirement, says (Advisor Name), a representative of the Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

1. Tax burdens differ between states in the United States.

2. Tax-friendly states for retirees

3. Strategies to reduce tax liability and maximize financial well-being.

A new report details stark differences in tax burdens across U.S. states - and how that disproportionately burdens taxpayers in some places compared to others. While the average American pays about USD 11,000 in federal taxes a year, the actual tax burden largely depends on where you live, personal finance website WalletHub said. It is exacerbated by differences in state and local tax rates, where residents pay double the amount of income taxes compared to low-tax states. The researchers used three types of taxes to determine the tax burden: homestead and excise taxes, individual income taxes, and sales and excise taxes. The tax burden for each state was computed from household income, home and car values, and household spending data.

For those looking to cut their taxes and keep more of their paycheck, Alaska offers the best deal at just 5.06%. However, new residents should expect to pay a big chunk of their income in taxes - 12.47%. The regional disparities are highlighted in WalletHub's rankings of states with the highest and lowest tax burdens. New York, Hawaii, Maine, Vermont and Connecticut rank among the highest tax states. Meanwhile, residents of low-tax states like Alaska, Delaware, New Hampshire, Tennessee and Florida pay a relatively light tax burden.

Understanding these differences in tax burdens may help individuals, particularly A.O. Smith workers and retirees planning for their financial futures, make sound decisions about residence and financial strategies. Consider the tax implications of different states to optimize financial situation and possibly reduce tax liabilities. People should research and analyze the tax landscape of their desired location to maximize their money and secure a retirement.

How tax-friendly a state is can affect your retirement - literally. Kiplinger's study from February 24, 2023, found some states are more tax-friendly for retirees than others. Taxes on your retirement income such as income taxes, property taxes, sales taxes and tax exemptions can affect your financial security in retirement. States like Alaska, Wyoming and Nevada - which have no income taxes - are often tax-friendly for retirees. In contrast, Connecticut, New York and New Jersey have higher taxes. Consideration of a state's tax friendliness may help A.O. Smith workers planning to retire and current retirees decide where to live and how to budget for retirement.

Planning for retirement involves plotting a course across terrain. Just as seasoned explorers pick their path according to topography, A.O. Smith workers and retirees must determine how tax friendly states are before they settle down. Imagine a journey where some states offer smooth sailing - a river with low taxes - while other states impose mountainous taxes on you. Know how state taxes affect your route to financial peace and keep more of your savings in your pocket. Also read: set sail on a tax-friendly voyage to the most and least taxed states for a fun and financially secure journey to retirement

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Sources:

1. Kiernan, John S. 'States with the Highest & Lowest Tax Rates.' WalletHub , 4 Mar. 2024, www.wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-states-to-be-a-taxpayer/2416?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

2. Washington, Katelyn. 'State-by-State Guide to Taxes on Retirees.' Kiplinger , 22 Oct. 2024, www.kiplinger.com/retirement/600892/state-by-state-guide-to-taxes-on-retirees?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

3. Schubel, Kate. 'Retirement Taxes: How All 50 States Tax Retirees.' Kiplinger , 18 Jan. 2025, www.kiplinger.com/retirement/602202/taxes-in-retirement-how-all-50-states-tax-retirees?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

4. 'How the 50 States Rank By Tax Burden.' CPA Practice Advisor , 1 Dec. 2024, www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2024/12/01/how-the-50-states-rank-by-tax-burden/103495/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

5. Schubel, Kate. 'States That Won't Tax Your Retirement Income in 2025.' Kiplinger , 2 Feb. 2025, www.kiplinger.com/taxes/states-that-dont-tax-retirement-income?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

What type of retirement savings plan does Aflac offer to its employees?

Aflac offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Does Aflac match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Aflac provides a matching contribution to eligible employees participating in the 401(k) plan.

How can employees at Aflac enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Aflac can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the eligibility requirement for Aflac employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Aflac employees are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, as outlined in the employee handbook.

Can Aflac employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Aflac allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in Aflac's 401(k) plan?

Aflac’s 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

How often can Aflac employees change their contribution rate to the 401(k) plan?

Aflac employees can change their contribution rate to the 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.

What is the vesting schedule for Aflac's 401(k) matching contributions?

Aflac has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which means employees must work for a certain number of years before they fully own the employer's contributions.

Are there any fees associated with Aflac's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Aflac’s 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

Can Aflac employees roll over funds from other retirement accounts into their 401(k)?

Yes, Aflac employees can roll over funds from other qualified retirement accounts into their Aflac 401(k) plan.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Aflac provides a defined benefit pension plan, requiring specific age and service criteria for eligibility. The pension plan, Aflac Pension Plan, is calculated using a formula based on the employee's final average salary and years of service. Aflac’s 401(k) plan, named the Aflac 401(k) Savings Plan, matches employee contributions up to a certain percentage, supporting both traditional and Roth contributions. Employees are immediately vested in the 401(k) plan. [Source: Aflac Employee Benefits, 2022, p. 18]

Aflac has announced several significant updates in 2024. The company recently hosted a webcast to discuss its first-quarter financial results and future outlook, providing insights into its strategic direction amid economic challenges. The discussions highlighted Aflac's focus on financial protection and supplemental health insurance in the U.S. and Japan. Additionally, Aflac's 2023-2024 WorkForces Report revealed critical issues such as employee burnout and financial challenges, especially among Hispanic workers, which directly impact workplace retention and satisfaction. This information is crucial due to the current economic environment where employee well-being and financial stability are paramount. Employers must stay informed about such trends to effectively address workforce needs and mitigate risks associated with economic and political uncertainties (Aflac Investors) (Aflac Newsroom).

Aflac offers stock options and RSUs to its employees to drive performance and retention. Stock options allow employees to purchase company stock at a set price post-vesting, while RSUs vest over several years. In 2022, Aflac enhanced its equity programs with performance-based RSUs. The trend continued in 2023 and 2024, with broader RSU availability and performance-linked stock options. Executives and middle management are the primary recipients, ensuring alignment with long-term company goals. [Source: Aflac Financial Results 2022-2024, p. 56]

Aflac’s 2022 healthcare updates included expanded critical illness and accident care coverage, along with digital health tools. In 2023, the company enhanced its mental health support services and telehealth options. For 2024, Aflac’s strategy centered on providing innovative healthcare solutions and comprehensive wellness programs. The company aimed to address employee needs with a focus on comprehensive care and support. Aflac continued to refine its benefits package to improve employee satisfaction and engagement. Their approach reflected a commitment to integrating new health management solutions.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Aflac at 4000 luxottica pl Mason, OH 45040-8114; or by calling them at 513-765-6000.

https://www.aflac.com/docs/benefits/trends2024.pdf - Page 7 https://www.aflac.com/docs/benefits/guide2023.pdf - Page 12 https://www.aflac.com/docs/benefits/guide2022.pdf - Page 15 https://www.aflac.com/docs/benefits/annual_report2023.pdf - Page 8 https://annualreport.stocklight.com/nyse/afl/23662001.pdf - Page 45 https://www.aflac.com/docs/benefits/workforce_report2023.pdf - Page 20 https://www.aflac.com/docs/benefits/healthcare2024.pdf - Page 33 https://www.aflac.com/docs/benefits/employee_handbook2024.pdf - Page 17 https://www.aflac.com/docs/benefits/pension_plan2023.pdf - Page 19 https://www.aflac.com/docs/benefits/retirement_guide2024.pdf - Page 22