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2022 Year-End Tax Tips CarMax

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for CarMax: CarMax partners with UnitedHealthcare as its primary healthcare provider. This partnership allows CarMax employees to access a variety of health insurance options tailored to meet their healthcare needs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As we look ahead to 2026, CarMax employees may face significant healthcare cost increases due to rising premiums driven by several factors. The anticipated expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies, combined with aggressive rate hikes from major insurers, could see some enrollees facing premium increases of up to 75%. This perfect storm of higher medical costs and regulatory changes indicates that families may need to brace for a substantial financial impact, making navigating healthcare options more critical than ever for employees. Click here to learn more

'For CarMax employees, proactive tax planning strategies, like deferring income and accelerating deductions, can significantly enhance retirement readiness, and working with an advisor like Kevin Landis from The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group, can help you make the most of these opportunities.'

'As the tax landscape evolves, it's crucial for CarMax employees to carefully weigh year-end moves such as contributing to retirement accounts or adjusting withholding, and an advisor like Brent Wolf from The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group, can guide you in optimizing your tax strategy for long-term financial success.'

In this article we will discuss:

  • 1. Tax strategies for employees and retirees of CarMax companies, including deferring income and accelerating deductions.

  • 2. Charitable contributions and their impact on tax returns for individuals who itemize deductions.

  • 3. The importance of required minimum distributions (RMDs) and year-end investment decisions.

  • According to a recent study by the Insured Retirement Institute (IRI), a leading financial research firm, 60% of Baby Boomers plan to continue working in some capacity during retirement. This means that for many employees and retirees of CarMax companies, tax planning strategies will continue to be relevant well beyond retirement age. It is important for this demographic to consider the impact of their retirement income on their tax liabilities, as well as the tax implications of continuing to work in retirement. With that taken into account, Here are some factors for employees and retirees of CarMax companies to consider as they evaluate potential tax moves between now and the end of the year.

  • 1. Defer income to next year

Consider opportunities to defer income until 2023, especially if you believe you will be in a reduced tax bracket in 2023. For instance, you may be able to defer an end-of-year bonus or delay the collection of business debts, rent, and service payments. As an employee of CarMax, doing so may allow you to defer income tax payment until the following year.

2. Accelerate deductions

Employees and retirees of CarMax should also seek opportunities to accelerate deductions into the current tax year. If you itemize deductions, paying medical expenses, qualifying interest, and state taxes before the end of the year (instead of paying them in early 2023) could affect your 2022 tax return.

3. Make deductible charitable contributions

Generally, if you are an employee of CarMax and itemize deductions on your federal income tax return, you can deduct charitable contributions up to 50% (currently increased to 60% for cash contributions to public charities), 30%, or 20% of your adjusted gross income (AGI), depending on the type of property you donate and the type of organization to which you donate. (Exceeding quantities may be carried forward for a maximum of five years.)

4. Bump up withholding to cover a tax shortfall

If it appears that you will incur federal income tax for the year as an employee of CarMax, consider increasing your withholding on Form W-4 for the remainder of the year to cover the shortfall. Time may be limited for CarMax employees to request a Form W-4 modification and for their employers to implement the change by 2022. The greatest benefit is that withholding is considered to have been paid equitably throughout the year, as opposed to when the dollars are actually deducted from your paycheck. This strategy can be utilized by employees of CarMax to make up for missed or insufficient quarterly estimated tax payments.

5. Save more for retirement

You can reduce your 2022 taxable income through contributions to a traditional IRA and a 401(k) sponsored by a CarMax company. If you are an employee of CarMax and have not already contributed the maximum amount, you should consider doing so. For 2022, CarMax employees can contribute up to $20,500 to a 401(k) plan ($27,000 if over 50) and up to $6,000 to traditional and Roth IRAs combined ($7,000 if over 50).* The window for 2022 contributions to a CarMax-sponsored plan typically concludes at the end of the year, whereas the deadline for 2022 IRA contributions is April 18, 2023.

Contributions to a Roth account are not tax-deductible, but qualified Roth distributions are not taxable.

6. Take the required minimum distributions

If you are 72 or older and work for CarMax, you are generally required to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from traditional IRAs and CarMax-sponsored retirement plans (exceptions apply if you are still employed and participating in CarMax's retirement plan). The deadline for withdrawals is typically the end of the year for most individuals. The penalty for noncompliance is severe: fifty percent of the quantity that was not distributed on time. As an employee of CarMax, it is imperative that you make these distributions on time to avoid the late payment penalty.

7. Weigh year-end investment moves

CarMax employees and retirees shouldn't let tax considerations dictate investment decisions. Nonetheless, you should consider the tax implications of any year-end investment decisions. If you have realized net capital gains from the sale of securities at a profit, you may be able to avoid taxation on some or all of these gains by selling negative positions. Any losses in excess of your gains as an employee of CarMax can be used to mitigate up to $3,000 of ordinary income ($1,500 if your filing status is married filing separately) or carried forward to reduce your tax liability in future years.

Conclusion

Preparing your taxes is like taking care of your health. Just as you need to stay on top of your physical well-being to prevent future health issues, you also need to plan ahead and take the necessary steps to ensure that you're not hit with unexpected tax liabilities in the future. By deferring income, accelerating deductions, making charitable contributions, and contributing to your retirement accounts, you can ensure that your financial health is in good shape for the years ahead. Just as you wouldn't skip your annual check-up, you shouldn't overlook the importance of taking care of your taxes.

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Sources :

1. Weltman, Barbara. '5 Tax Planning Strategies for Your Retirement Income.'  Investopedia , 3 Oct. 2022,  https://www.investopedia.com/retirement/tax-strategies-your-retirement-income/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

2. Morgan Stanley. 'Tax-Smart Strategies for Your Retirement.'  Morgan Stanley , 2023,  https://www.morganstanley.com/articles/tax-strategies-for-retirement?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

3. Vanguard. 'Tax-Efficient Retirement Strategy.'  Vanguard , 2023,  https://investor.vanguard.com/advice/tax-efficient-retirement-strategy?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

4. Thrivent. '6 Retirement Tax Planning Strategies You Should Know.'  Thrivent , 2023,  https://www.thrivent.com/insights/taxes/6-retirement-tax-planning-strategies-you-should-know?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

5. New York Life Insurance. 'Tax Planning Strategies for Retirement.'  New York Life Insurance , 2023,  https://www.newyorklife.com/articles/tax-considerations-in-retirement?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

What is the 401(k) plan offered by CarMax?

The 401(k) plan at CarMax is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out, helping them prepare for retirement.

Does CarMax match contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, CarMax offers a matching contribution to employees' 401(k) plans, which helps employees grow their retirement savings even faster.

How much can I contribute to my CarMax 401(k) plan?

Employees at CarMax can contribute up to the IRS annual limit, which is adjusted each year. For 2023, the limit is $22,500, with an additional catch-up contribution for those aged 50 and older.

When can I enroll in the CarMax 401(k) plan?

New employees at CarMax are typically eligible to enroll in the 401(k) plan after completing a waiting period, usually within the first few months of employment.

What investment options are available in the CarMax 401(k) plan?

The CarMax 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to help employees diversify their portfolios.

How does CarMax's matching contribution work?

CarMax matches a percentage of employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, up to a certain limit, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

Can I take a loan from my CarMax 401(k) plan?

Yes, CarMax allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) accounts under certain conditions, providing a way to access funds in case of emergencies.

What happens to my CarMax 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave CarMax, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over into an IRA or a new employer's plan, or leaving it in the CarMax plan if permitted.

Is there a vesting schedule for the CarMax 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, CarMax has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched funds.

How can I check my CarMax 401(k) balance?

Employees can check their 401(k) balance through the CarMax benefits portal or by contacting the plan administrator for assistance.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Name of Pension Plan: CarMax does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, CarMax provides retirement benefits primarily through a 401(k) plan. Years of Service and Age Qualification: CarMax does not have a traditional pension plan, so there are no specific qualifications for years of service or age for a pension plan. Pension Formula: There is no pension formula as CarMax does not offer a traditional pension plan. 401(k) Plan Details: Employee Contributions: Employees can contribute a portion of their salary up to the annual IRS limit. Employer Match: CarMax offers a company match up to a certain percentage of the employee's contributions.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In recent months, CarMax has announced a significant restructuring plan, including layoffs across various departments. This move is part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and improve efficiency amid changing market conditions. The layoffs are aimed at reducing overhead costs and reallocating resources to more profitable areas of the business. This restructuring is crucial to address the shifting economic landscape and maintain the company's competitive edge. It’s important for employees and investors to stay informed about these changes due to the current economic volatility, investment uncertainties, and evolving tax and political environments.
CarMax Stock Options (SO) and Restricted Stock Units (RSU): Acronyms: CarMax uses SO for Stock Options and RSU for Restricted Stock Units. Specifics: In 2022, CarMax provided stock options and RSUs to eligible employees, primarily focusing on senior management and key contributors. Availability: Both stock options and RSUs are typically granted as part of the compensation package to high-level executives and sometimes to other employees based on performance and tenure. Acronyms: For CarMax, the acronyms SO and RSU remain consistent. Specifics: In 2023, CarMax continued to offer stock options and RSUs. The grants were aligned with industry standards, aiming to attract and retain talent. Availability: Stock options and RSUs were granted to select employees, with an emphasis on roles critical to the company's strategic goals.
Benefits Overview: CarMax provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They offer health plans that cover preventive care, medical visits, prescription drugs, and other essential health services. Healthcare Terms/Acronyms: HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan): A plan with higher deductibles and lower premiums, paired with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). HSA (Health Savings Account): A tax-advantaged savings account used to pay for qualified medical expenses. FSA (Flexible Spending Account): An account allowing employees to use pre-tax dollars for out-of-pocket health expenses.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for CarMax at 12800 Tuckahoe Creek Parkway Richmond, VA 23238; or by calling them at +1 800-519-1511.

https://www.irs.gov/ https://www.pbgc.gov/ https://www.businessinsider.com/ https://www.forbes.com/ https://www.reuters.com/ https://www.thelayoff.com/

*Please see disclaimer for more information

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