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2022 Year-End Tax Tips Copart

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Healthcare Provider Update: Offers four medical plan options, dental and vision coverage, HSAs/FSAs, 401(k) with match, ESPP, wellness programs, and tuition reimbursement. As ACA premiums rise, Coparts customizable plans and employer contributions help employees avoid steep out-of-pocket costs Click here to learn more

'For Copart 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 Copart 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 Copart 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 Copart 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 Copart 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 Copart, doing so may allow you to defer income tax payment until the following year.

2. Accelerate deductions

Employees and retirees of Copart 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 Copart 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 Copart, consider increasing your withholding on Form W-4 for the remainder of the year to cover the shortfall. Time may be limited for Copart 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 Copart 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 Copart company. If you are an employee of Copart and have not already contributed the maximum amount, you should consider doing so. For 2022, Copart 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 Copart-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 Copart, you are generally required to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from traditional IRAs and Copart-sponsored retirement plans (exceptions apply if you are still employed and participating in Copart'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 Copart, it is imperative that you make these distributions on time to avoid the late payment penalty.

7. Weigh year-end investment moves

Copart 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 Copart 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 Copart 401(k) plan?

The Copart 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or after-tax basis.

How can I enroll in Copart's 401(k) plan?

You can enroll in Copart's 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

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

Yes, Copart offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Copart's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Copart's 401(k) plan is determined by the IRS and may change annually; employees should check the latest IRS guidelines for the current limit.

When can I start contributing to Copart's 401(k) plan?

Employees at Copart can start contributing to the 401(k) plan after completing their eligibility period, which is typically outlined in the employee handbook.

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

Copart'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 and retirement goals.

Can I take a loan from my Copart 401(k) account?

Yes, Copart allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) accounts under certain conditions, but it’s important to review the specific terms and repayment requirements.

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

If you leave Copart, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to a new employer's plan, transferring it to an IRA, or cashing it out (though this may incur taxes and penalties).

How often can I change my contribution amount to Copart's 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically change their contribution amount to Copart's 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan's specific rules regarding frequency and timing.

Is there a vesting schedule for Copart's 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Copart has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, meaning that employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the employer contributions.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Copart offers a cash balance pension plan, which is a type of defined benefit plan. In this plan, participants' benefits are defined in terms of a stated account balance that grows annually with company contributions and interest credits. The cash balance plan credits each participant's account with a percentage of their annual compensation and an interest credit based on either a fixed rate or a variable rate linked to an index such as the one-year treasury bill rate. Eligibility for this plan typically includes full-time employees who meet certain tenure requirements, ensuring they receive a predictable retirement benefit based on their cumulative account balance at retirement. In recent years, Copart has adapted its cash balance plan to comply with updated tax laws and economic conditions. The company employs interest rate strategies that consider both stability and potential returns, such as using a fixed interest rate for simplicity and better funding predictability. Specifically, Copart has leveraged options like the 5% fixed rate, which helps in achieving consistent funding levels without yearly recalculations, making it advantageous for both the company and employees. This approach aligns with recent tax laws, ensuring that contributions and benefits are optimized within legal limits, benefiting both the company and its workforce.
Restructuring Layoffs: As of November 2023, Copart has announced significant financial growth with substantial increases in revenue and net income, which has mitigated the need for extensive layoffs. However, like many companies in the current economic climate, Copart has taken steps to optimize its workforce, primarily through natural attrition and selective hiring freezes rather than widespread layoffs. This strategic approach aims to maintain financial stability while preparing for potential market volatility in 2024​
Stock Options: Copart offers employee stock options which provide employees the right to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price. These options are generally available to senior executives and key employees, designed to incentivize performance and align employee interests with those of shareholders. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs): Copart grants RSUs which represent a promise to deliver shares of stock at a future date, subject to vesting conditions. These units are typically awarded to executives and high-performing employees, providing them with a stake in the company's success.
Health Insurance Plans: Copart offers its employees a choice of four medical plans to accommodate different healthcare needs. These plans include coverage for dental, vision, and mental health services. Employees can also take advantage of disability insurance and flexible spending accounts (FSAs)​ (Copart)​ (Built In). Specific Healthcare Terms and Acronyms: FSA (Flexible Spending Account): Allows employees to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible healthcare expenses. HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): A plan that requires members to use a network of doctors and hospitals. PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): A plan offering more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers and does not require a referral to see a specialist. Recent Employee Healthcare News: In 2024, Copart has continued to enhance its healthcare benefits to better support employees' mental health and overall wellness. The company provides 24/7 access to physicians through phone and video consultations at no additional cost to employees enrolled in their medical plans​ (Copart).
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Copart at 14185 Dallas Pkwy. Dallas, TX 75254; or by calling them at 972-391-5400.

https://quartr.com/insights/company-research/the-rise-of-copart-from-salvage-yard-to-tech-giant https://www.copart.com/content/us/en/press-releases/copart-to-release-second-quarter-2024-results https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/COPART-INC-8879/graphics-sector/ https://quartr.com/insights/company-research/the-rise-of-copart-from-salvage-yard-to-tech-giant https://intellizence.com/insights/layoff-downsizing/leading-companies-announcing-layoffs-and-hiring-freezes/ https://www.brianheger.com/2023-layoff-tracker-of-organizations-announcing-job-cuts-brian-heger/ https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/copart-inc.-to-release-first-quarter-fiscal-2024-results-2023-11-10 https://www.thelayoff.com/t/1rjVc5jB https://www.thelayoff.com/t/1nOXYbmq https://www.thelayoff.com/t/1kvixn3O https://www.emparion.com/cash-balance-pension-plan-faq/ https://www.emparion.com/cash-balance-plan-lifetime-contribution-limits/ https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/cash-balance-pension-plan-options https://www.emparion.com/2024-cash-balance-plan-contribution-maximum/ https://www.kiplinger.com/ https://www.dol.gov/ https://www.pentegra.com/ https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231116240362/en/Copart-Reports-First-Quarter-Fiscal-2024-Financial-Results https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1381668/000138166824000107/xslF345X05/wk-form4_1722973742.xml https://www.copart.com/content/us/en/careers/benefits https://builtin.com/company/copart/benefits https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231116240362/en/Copart-Reports-First-Quarter-Fiscal-2024-Financial-Results https://www.marketbeat.com/stocks/NASDAQ/CPRT/earnings/ https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/2023-lump-sums-defined-benefit-plans-much-lower-as-interest-rates-rise https://www.mercer.com/en-us/insights/retirement/defined-benefit-plans/pension-discount-yield-curve-and-index-rates-in-us/ https://www.spglobal.com/ratings/en/research/articles/230711-u-s-public-pension-fiscal-2023-update-funded-ratios-stable-inflation-retreats-and-pob-issuance-stops-12787619 https://www.am-online.com/news/acquisitions-and-deals/2023/05/09/competition-concerns-raised-on-copart-s-hills-motors-acquisition https://www.crai.com/engagements/coparts-acquisition-unconditionally-cleared-after-phase-2-provisional-findings-overturned/ https://www.crai.com/engagements/coparts-acquisition-unconditionally-cleared-after-phase-2-provisional-findings-overturned https://www.emparion.com/

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