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Hertz Global Holdings Employees: How to Use Options Collars to Manage Appreciated Stock Without Triggering Taxes

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider Information for Hertz Global Holdings Hertz Global Holdings typically utilizes the services of UnitedHealthcare. This relationship provides its employees with access to a range of healthcare options, including comprehensive medical coverage and health savings accounts to help manage rising healthcare costs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, employees of Hertz Global Holdings should prepare for significant healthcare cost increases, driven primarily by sharply rising premiums in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Data indicates that some states may see premium hikes exceeding 60%, exacerbated by factors such as inflated medical costs and the potential expiration of federal premium subsidies. With more than 92% of ACA policyholders facing potential out-of-pocket increases of over 75%, these economic pressures could strain budgets and access to healthcare coverage for many Hertz employees in the upcoming year. Click here to learn more

'Hertz Global Holdings employees navigating concentrated stock positions should view strategies like collars as part of a broader wealth and tax planning discussion that requires careful coordination with qualified professionals.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Hertz Global Holdings employees with significant stock holdings can benefit from understanding how thoughtful planning techniques provide both flexibility and time to make informed decisions about future diversification.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

How an options collar can help manage concentrated stock positions without triggering immediate taxes.
Key considerations for constructive sale treatment under Section 1259.
Practical examples and alternatives for Hertz Global Holdings employees holding appreciated stock.

By Tyson Mavar, advisor at Wealth Enhancement

The Difficulty of Keeping Valuable Stock

Many Hertz Global Holdings employees hold highly valued company stock, which may have been built up over years of employment or from investments that performed better than expected. Leaving these shares without a hedge exposes them to downside risk if the stock price falls, but selling would create a significant capital gains tax liability.

One method of limiting potential losses without selling outright is an options collar. Even if the stock is not sold, certain hedging techniques can be treated as taxable sales under Section 1259 of the Internal Revenue Code, which governs 'constructive sales.'

The Operation of an Options Collar

A collar strategy combines shares already owned with two option positions:

Put option: Purchasing a put option gives you the right to sell shares at a set strike price. For example, if you own stock at $100 and buy a $90 put, you can still sell at $90 even if the price falls further.
Covered call: Selling a call requires selling at a higher strike price. For instance, selling a $120 call limits gains above $120.

When paired, the call premium can offset the put’s cost. This creates a range where downside is limited and upside is capped. Additionally, with careful planning, the collar can often be cost-neutral.

The Use of Collars by Investors

Hertz Global Holdings stockholders and others might use collars in the following cases:

Concentrated positions: A large portion of wealth tied to one company.
Market uncertainty: When downside management is needed but selling isn’t desirable.
Estate and legacy planning: Preserving value while postponing capital gains.

The Problem of Constructive Sales

Section 1259 defines some hedges as constructive sales, including:

- Short sales of stock you already own.
- Contracts for future delivery of the stock.
- Deep in-the-money calls and puts that eliminate both risk and reward.

If the IRS views a collar as removing nearly all economic exposure, it can be treated as a constructive sale, triggering immediate recognition of capital gains.

Collar Design to Steer Clear of Constructive Sales

To reduce the risk of Section 1259 issues, Hertz Global Holdings employees can structure collars with careful attention:

- Keep strike prices wide enough to allow both risk and reward.
- Use out-of-the-money calls and puts rather than in-the-money options.
- Roll collars forward instead of holding outdated positions.
- Document investment intent with an advisor.

An Example

Suppose you hold $2 million in stock purchased years ago for $200,000. Selling outright could result in over $400,000 in federal taxes, depending on your state.

Instead, you might sell calls at 120% of the stock’s value and purchase puts at 80%. In this design:

- Losses are limited to 20%.
- Gains are capped above 120%.
- The position retains risk and reward, so it generally avoids being classified as a constructive sale.

This approach can provide time to manage sales across multiple tax years or to wait for a more favorable tax environment.

Considerations

Hertz Global Holdings employees considering collars should note:

Liquidity: Large-cap companies usually have strong options markets.
Rolling: Positions can be extended as expiration approaches.
Alternatives: Other hedging tools include donor-advised funds, charitable remainder trusts, gifting strategies, or exchange funds.
Advisory guidance: Given the complexity of constructive sale rules, consulting tax and legal professionals is critical.

The Bottom Line

Options collars can help Hertz Global Holdings employees preserve the value of appreciated stock while limiting downside and postponing taxable events. This strategy allows time for thoughtful diversification while maintaining both risk and opportunity. However, collars must be carefully designed to reduce the chance of triggering constructive sale treatment under the Internal Revenue Code.

Disclaimer: This material is for educational purposes only. Alternative investments may not be suitable for all investors and involve special risks such as leveraging the investment, potential adverse market forces, regulatory changes, and potential illiquidity. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Always consult your tax professional before making decisions, as tax laws are complex and subject to change.

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Sources:

1. United States Congress. 26 U.S. Code §1259 - Constructive Sales Treatment for Appreciated Financial Positions. Cornell Law School, Legal Information Institute, 5 Aug. 1997, amended 4 Oct. 2004. https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/26/1259.

2. Internal Revenue Service. Revenue Ruling 2003-7, 2003-1 C.B. 363. 2003. https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/rr-03-7.pdf.

3. Options Industry Council (OIC). Options Strategies Quick Guide. The Options Clearing Corporation, 2021. https://www.optionseducation.org/getattachment/007fe864-029a-490d-8dc1-3b58bd558f64/options-strategies-quick-guide.pdf?lang=en-US

4. Internal Revenue Service. 2024 Instructions for Form 5227, Split-Interest Trust Information Return. 26 Nov. 2024. https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i5227.pdf

How does The Hertz Corporation's pension plan ensure that employees are fairly compensated for their years of service, and what specific criteria does The Hertz Corporation use to determine eligibility for benefits under the Account Balance Defined Benefit Pension Plan?

Fair Compensation for Years of Service: The Hertz Corporation's pension plan ensures employees are fairly compensated for their years of service by granting Compensation Credits as a percentage of eligible pay. Eligibility for benefits starts once employees have at least 1,000 Hours of Service in a 12-month period, ensuring that benefits are proportional to service time. Benefits become vested after three years of service, securing an employee’s accumulated benefits.

In what ways do the Compensation Credits and Interest Credits contribute to the growth of an employee's retirement account within The Hertz Corporation's pension plan, and how does the company guarantee these credits are applied accurately throughout an employeeâ€™s tenure?

Growth of Retirement Account: Within The Hertz Corporation's pension plan, Compensation Credits and Interest Credits contribute to the growth of an employee's retirement account. Compensation Credits are calculated as a percentage of the employee’s eligible pay, and Interest Credits grow the account balance annually based on a preset rate, ensuring a systematic increase in the retirement funds over an employee's tenure.

What are the implications of the freeze date on participation in The Hertz Corporation's pension plan, and how might this affect current employees who are considering their retirement options within the next few years?

Implications of Freeze Date: The freeze date impacts current employees by discontinuing the accrual of new Compensation Credits. Employees enrolled in the plan before the freeze date retain their accrued benefits, but no new benefits will be added post-freeze. This could influence current employees' decisions on retirement timing and financial planning.

How does The Hertz Corporation handle claims for pension benefits, and what processes are in place for employees to appeal denied claims according to the guidelines set out in the Account Balance Defined Benefit Pension Plan?

Claims for Pension Benefits: The Hertz Corporation handles claims for pension benefits through a detailed procedure where employees can file a claim with the Committee. If denied, the employee can appeal the decision. This process ensures that employees have a structured avenue for resolving disputes regarding their pension benefits.

Under what circumstances can an employee of The Hertz Corporation be considered fully vested, and how does vesting impact an employee's future retirement benefits?

Vesting and Impact on Retirement Benefits: Employees of The Hertz Corporation are considered fully vested in their pension benefits after three years of service, which secures their right to pension benefits accrued till that point. Vesting ensures that upon leaving the company, employees are entitled to their accumulated benefits, directly impacting their financial stability in retirement.

How do The Hertz Corporation's pension benefits compare to other companies in the industry, especially in terms of contribution percentages and payment options available upon retirement?

Comparison with Industry Standards: The pension benefits at The Hertz Corporation, which include both Compensation and Interest Credits, are competitive within the industry, particularly because the company covers the full cost of the plan. The option to receive benefits as a lump sum or an annuity upon retirement provides flexibility compared to other industry plans.

Can you explain the process and the timeline involved for receiving pension benefits after retirement from The Hertz Corporation, including any choices that the retiree must make regarding payout methods?

Receiving Pension Benefits Post-Retirement: The timeline and process for receiving pension benefits after retirement involve choosing a payout method (lump sum or annuity) and filing a claim. Benefits can start as early as age 55 for early retirement, or at the normal retirement age of 65, with the account continuing to accrue Interest Credits until the benefits commence.

What resources does The Hertz Corporation provide to employees looking to understand their rights and benefits under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), and how can this information assist employees in making informed retirement decisions?

Resources on ERISA Rights: The Hertz Corporation provides resources to help employees understand their rights under ERISA through its pension plan website and support center. This information helps employees make informed decisions about their retirement planning by clarifying their rights and benefits under the plan.

What procedures should an employee at The Hertz Corporation follow to update their personal information or beneficiary designations in their pension account, and why is it crucial to keep this information up to date?

Updating Personal Information: Employees at The Hertz Corporation are encouraged to update their personal and beneficiary information via the Hertz Pension Center website. Keeping information current is crucial for ensuring that all communications and benefits are correctly handled, especially for claims and beneficiary designations.

If employees of The Hertz Corporation have questions or require further information regarding the pension plan, what steps should they take to contact the company, and what information will they need to facilitate their inquiry?

Contacting for Further Information: For further inquiries about the pension plan, employees should contact the Hertz Pension Center. This center provides access to plan details and assistance for any additional information required by employees, ensuring transparency and accessibility in managing their retirement benefits.

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

Hertz Global Holdings Pension Plan Name of Pension Plan: Hertz Global Holdings Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees are eligible for the pension plan if they have a minimum of 5 years of service and are at least 55 years old. Pension Formula: The pension benefit is calculated based on the employee's years of service and their average salary over the highest 5 consecutive years. Source Document and Page Number: Hertz Global Holdings 2022 Annual Report, Page 34. Hertz Global Holdings 401(k) Plan Name of 401(k) Plan: Hertz Global Holdings 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan immediately upon hire. Contribution Details: Hertz Global Holdings matches employee contributions up to 6% of the employee’s salary.

Restructuring and Layoffs: Hertz Global Holdings has undergone significant restructuring in 2023, which included a series of layoffs aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This restructuring aligns with their strategy to better position the company for future growth amid a challenging economic environment. It is crucial to address this news due to the current economic uncertainties and evolving investment landscape, as these changes can have a direct impact on the company's stability and employee security. Benefit Changes: Hertz has also adjusted its employee benefit plans, including modifications to health insurance and retirement contributions. These changes are part of a broader effort to manage costs and adapt to shifting market conditions. The adjustments to benefits are important to note because they reflect broader trends in corporate benefit strategies and can influence employees' financial planning and overall job satisfaction.

Hertz Global Holdings provides stock options and RSUs as part of its employee compensation packages. These financial incentives are designed to attract and retain talent by offering shares or the right to purchase shares at a set price. Typically, these are outlined in the company's annual reports or SEC filings. Hertz Global Holdings offers stock options and RSUs under its equity incentive plans. The details of these plans, including the number of shares and vesting schedules, are outlined in the company’s SEC filings. Employees in specific roles or levels may qualify for these benefits. Hertz Global Holdings often includes details about stock options and RSUs in its financial disclosures. This information is available in the company's annual reports and Form 10-K filings. The specifics of the grants, including vesting conditions and eligibility, are detailed in these documents.

Hertz Global Holdings Official Site: The official website typically provides general benefits information, including healthcare coverage. Key benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance options. They also offer flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs). Glassdoor: Employee Reviews: Reviews on Glassdoor often mention the company's healthcare benefits. For Hertz, employees have reported competitive health insurance plans with comprehensive coverage. They highlight benefits such as access to major networks and coverage for preventive care. Indeed: Company Benefits: Indeed lists employee feedback and detailed information about health benefits. Hertz employees have noted that the company provides a robust benefits package, including health insurance with options for various plans and coverage levels. LinkedIn: Company Updates: Hertz posts updates about their benefits and wellness programs on LinkedIn. Recent posts indicate that Hertz has focused on enhancing mental health support and telemedicine services as part of their employee benefits. Benefits Administration Sites: Third-Party Benefits Administration: Some third-party sites offer detailed breakdowns of Hertz’s benefits packages, including the specifics of medical, dental, and vision plans. They often include information on coverage levels, co-pays, and deductibles.