EnerSys Employees: Smarter Ways to Manage Taxes on Appreciated Stock
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for EnerSys:
EnerSys, a global leader in stored energy solutions, typically utilizes various healthcare providers for its employee benefits. However, the specific healthcare provider used by EnerSys can vary by location and is often tailored to meet the needs of its workforce and regional healthcare systems. For the most accurate and updated information, it's advisable for employees or interested parties to refer to EnerSys' human resources or benefits department.
Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026:
As healthcare costs rise significantly, the landscape for employers and employees is expected to shift dramatically in 2026. Various insurers are predicting increases in premiums often exceeding 20%, driven by factors such as higher medical costs, potential expiration of federal premium subsidies, and significant rate hikes from the largest insurers. With market conditions suggesting that over 22 million individuals may face out-of-pocket premium hikes exceeding 75%, the financial strain on many families and businesses is imminent, necessitating strategic planning among employers to mitigate these impacts.
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'EnerSys employees with concentrated stock positions may benefit from thoughtful tax planning that allows for tax deferral while balancing liquidity, compliance, and long-term compounding,' Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
'EnerSys employees who hold highly-appreciated stock may want to consider tax-efficient strategies that help mitigate their liabilities while aligning with their overall retirement goals,' Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
In this article, we will discuss:
How taxes can affect investment returns, particularly on concentrated stock positions.
Exchange funds and options-based strategies as methods for tax deferral and diversification.
Alternative planning techniques outside ETFs, including charitable trusts and gifting strategies.
By Carlos Hernandez, Wealth Enhancement advisor
When it comes to driving portfolio returns, many investors aim to keep management fees low by investing in low-cost index funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). While fees matter, however, the real culprit for lower-than-anticipated performance is taxes.
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Wealth Enhancement advisor Carlos Hernandez explains: 'By losing less to taxes each year, investors have access to more capital that can continue to compound over time. This makes tax deferral an important part of an effective financial plan.' EnerSys employees looking for long-term growth strategies could benefit by understanding how to better manage their investment tax burdens.
Trade Money
One area where taxes can take a toll is on the sale of company stock or other concentrated investment positions. EnerSys professionals looking to diversify could face significant capital gains taxes on an outright sale. One way to diversify without triggering immediate capital gains is through exchange funds. By contributing their highy-appreciated stock to a pooled fund, investors can trade their concentrated holdings for shares in a diverse basket of securities. This method can be used by EnerSys employees who want to diversify while postponing taxable events.
Although this method allows for tax deferral, it also requires investors to hold the exchange fund for a period of time, typically seven years.
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This could create a challenge for investors who require liquidity. Additionally, these funds are often exclusively accessible to wealthy, accredited investors—something EnerSys executives should carefully evaluate.
Funds Based on Options
Another way to mitigate taxes on the sale of highly-appreciated stock is by using options contracts. The idea is to hedge risk with put options while covering the cost of those puts by selling call options—a strategy called 'collaring'. From there, the strategy reverses, with investors selling put options and using the proceeds to buy call option on an equity or bond index.
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If managed effectively, this helps to diversify a concentrated portfolio while still maintaining liquidity.
Given the complexity of this strategy, meticulous planning is necessary. It's generally recommended that investors work with an experienced financial advisor before pursuing this approach.
Things to Be Aware of
Although these strategies can be beneficial for EnerSys employees who hold highly-appreciated stock, caution is recommended. There are costs associated with these approaches, and potential liquidity risks. Additionally, the IRS may eventually contest such arrangements because their tax status has not been thoroughly examined—something EnerSys retirees should keep top of mind.
'Tax drag reduction strategies can be effective, but they must be assessed through the lens of risk, liquidity, cost, and compliance,' warns Carlos Hernandez. What is appealing in theory must hold up to inspection in the real world.
Alternative Strategies
Although they show promise, investors with highly-appreciated stock or those looking to postpone gains have other alternatives besides exchange funds or options. Other tactics could include:
- Prepaid variable forwards (subject to IRS regulations, contracts to sell at predetermined terms in the future).
- Charitable remainder trusts (CRTs), which allow investors to donate appreciated stock to a charitable trust and receive a stream of regular income in return.
- Donor-advised funds (DAFs), which provide investors with a tax deduction for the fair market value of the appreciated stock they donate.
- Other gifting techniques, such as direct donations to charity or family.
Each has its own set of guidelines, advantages, and disadvantages. To limit unnecessary taxes or violating the constructive sale regulations, careful planning is necessary for EnerSys professionals managing complex portfolios.
The Bottom Line
Although the movement to mitigate the tax burden on investments is not new, the instruments are changing. Both exchange funds and options-based structures offer investors a way to manage tax liabilities, especially for EnerSys employees who hold highly-appreciated stock.
In the end, taxes are unavoidable. However, with the correct set of instruments, they can be controlled and postponed. 'The real value comes from aligning tax strategy with investment strategy,' summarizes Carlos Hernandez.
What type of retirement savings plan does EnerSys offer to its employees?
EnerSys offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
Does EnerSys provide a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, EnerSys provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.
How can EnerSys employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?
EnerSys employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's benefits portal.
What is the eligibility requirement for EnerSys employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?
EnerSys employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically outlined in the employee handbook.
Can EnerSys employees change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, EnerSys employees can change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan at any time during the year.
What investment options are available in the EnerSys 401(k) plan?
The EnerSys 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.
Does EnerSys allow for loans against the 401(k) plan?
Yes, EnerSys allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) plan balances, subject to specific terms and conditions.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an EnerSys employee leaves the company?
If an EnerSys employee leaves the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the EnerSys plan if allowed.
Are there any fees associated with the EnerSys 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be administrative and investment fees associated with the EnerSys 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.
How often can EnerSys employees review their 401(k) account statements?
EnerSys employees can review their 401(k) account statements quarterly, and they may also have access to their accounts online for real-time updates.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
For EnerSys, the company provides a 401(k) plan for its employees with a company match. According to reports from employee reviews, EnerSys offers a matching contribution up to 6%. Specifically, the first 4% is matched at 100%, while the next 2% is matched at 50% (Day Pitney). This makes it possible for employees to benefit from a total employer contribution of up to 6% of their salary, depending on their personal contribution levels. The EnerSys 401(k) plan is available to all full-time employees, and as per the company's policies, the matching starts after a certain period of employment, typically 90 days (Day Pitney).
EnerSys also offers a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, though details on the specific name of the plan and the precise formula used were not immediately accessible. However, it is typically calculated based on factors such as years of service and final average pay. Employees are vested after completing a specified period of service, which is typically around five years
Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, EnerSys announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at optimizing its global operations. This restructuring led to layoffs affecting several positions across its manufacturing and administrative sectors. The move was part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and reduce costs amid a challenging economic environment. It is crucial to monitor such developments due to the impact of restructuring on employee security and the potential implications for the company’s operational efficiency. Given the current economic climate and investment trends, understanding these changes is essential for stakeholders to navigate the potential risks and opportunities effectively.
EnerSys Stock Options (SO):
EnerSys offers stock options (SO) to selected employees based on their roles and performance. The options typically vest over a period of time, ensuring that employees stay with EnerSys for an extended period.
EnerSys Restricted Stock Units (RSU):
EnerSys grants Restricted Stock Units (RSU) to senior executives and key employees. These RSUs are generally subject to performance and time-based vesting conditions.
Health Plan Options: EnerSys offers its employees competitive health insurance plans, including options through Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS). Employees can choose between a High Deductible Plan (HDP) and a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan (Enersys) (Enersys Investor). These options are designed to cater to different needs, with the HDP being suitable for employees who prefer lower premiums and higher deductibles, while the PPO offers more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers.
Health Savings Account (HSA): Employees enrolled in the HDP have access to a Health Savings Account (HSA), allowing them to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover medical expenses. This is a key feature that supports employees in managing out-of-pocket costs (Enersys).
Wellness and Preventive Care: EnerSys promotes preventive care through its health plans by offering annual physicals, screenings, and immunizations at no additional cost to employees (Enersys). Preventive care is a major focus, aiming to reduce long-term healthcare costs and improve employee well-being.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): EnerSys provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health support. This program offers confidential counseling and resources for employees dealing with personal or professional challenges. The EAP is part of EnerSys' broader commitment to employee wellness (Enersys Investor).
Recent Employee Healthcare News: In response to rising healthcare costs, EnerSys has maintained a commitment to keeping employee contributions low while expanding access to essential services. They have continued enhancing their healthcare plans by offering comprehensive telehealth services, reflecting industry trends aimed at reducing in-person visits and supporting remote healthcare needs
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