New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

2022 Year-End Tax Tips Ensign Group

Healthcare Provider Update: Ensign Group Healthcare Provider The Ensign Group primarily operates skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and memory care services. They are known for providing a diverse range of healthcare services, including rehabilitation and care for patients with chronic conditions. Their operating model emphasizes patient-centered care, and they often partner with various healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive service delivery to their residents. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, significant premium hikes are anticipated in 2026, particularly for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. With some states forecasting increases exceeding 60%, the loss of enhanced federal premium subsidies could lead to average out-of-pocket costs spiking by over 75% for the majority of policyholders. This surge is attributed to rising medical costs and the record profits reported by major insurers, creating a perfect storm for healthcare consumers facing steep financial challenges ahead. As consumers prepare for 2026, proactive financial strategies will be essential to mitigate the impact of these escalating costs. Click here to learn more

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

2. Accelerate deductions

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

7. Weigh year-end investment moves

Ensign Group 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 Ensign Group 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 primary purpose of the 401(k) plan at Ensign Group?

The primary purpose of the 401(k) plan at Ensign Group is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

Who is eligible to participate in Ensign Group's 401(k) plan?

All full-time employees of Ensign Group who meet the eligibility requirements, such as age and service time, are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan.

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

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at Ensign Group by completing the online enrollment process through the designated benefits portal.

Does Ensign Group offer a company match for 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Ensign Group offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which enhances the overall retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Ensign Group?

The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Ensign Group is subject to IRS regulations, which are updated annually. Employees should refer to the latest guidelines for specific limits.

Can employees change their contribution percentage in Ensign Group's 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage at any time during the year by accessing their account through the benefits portal.

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

The Ensign Group 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

How often can employees make changes to their investments in the Ensign Group 401(k) plan?

Employees can make changes to their investment allocations in the Ensign Group 401(k) plan on a regular basis, typically daily, depending on the plan's rules.

Is there a vesting schedule for the Ensign Group 401(k) company match?

Yes, Ensign Group has a vesting schedule for the company match, meaning employees must work for the company for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

What happens to my 401(k) account if I leave Ensign Group?

If you leave Ensign Group, you have several options for your 401(k) account, including rolling it over to another retirement account or withdrawing the funds, subject to applicable taxes and penalties.

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

Ensign Group offers a 401(k) Savings Plan for its employees, which includes both pre-tax and Roth after-tax contribution options. The eligibility criteria for the plan requires that all full-time and part-time employees aged 18 and above can join the plan on the first of the month following 90 days of service. Employees can contribute up to 90% of their pay on a pre-tax or Roth basis, with the annual IRS contribution limit set at $23,000 for 2024. For employees aged 50 and above, an additional "catch-up" contribution of $7,500 is allowed. Ensign Group matches 25% of the first 2% of compensation contributed by employees, with a vesting schedule of 25% per year of service, reaching full vesting after four years. The plan includes various investment options through Fidelity, including target-date funds tailored to retirement timelines.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2023, Ensign Group announced a restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This move included the consolidation of some facilities and a reduction in workforce, primarily affecting administrative and support roles. The company stated that these changes were necessary to improve efficiency and operational agility.

Ensign Group offered stock options (SO) and RSUs to its employees as part of its compensation package. The company's SO and RSU plans are designed to attract and retain key talent by aligning employee interests with shareholder value. For 2022, the stock options and RSUs were granted to executives and other key employees based on their performance and role within the company.

Ensign Group: Health Benefits Information 1. Official Website Ensign Group Benefits Overview: Ensign Group's official website often outlines employee benefits, including healthcare options. You can usually find detailed information under their "Careers" or "Employee Benefits" sections. Key Terms: Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Preventive Care, Employee Assistance Program (EAP). 2. Glassdoor Benefits Review: Reviews from employees on Glassdoor often highlight the specifics of healthcare benefits, such as health insurance plans, coverage details, and employee satisfaction. Key Terms: Health Insurance Coverage, PPO, HMO, Deductibles, Co-pays. 3. Indeed Employee Reviews: Indeed provides employee reviews and salary information, including insights into healthcare benefits and any recent changes. Key Terms: Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance, Coverage Options, Wellness Programs. 4. LinkedIn Company Updates: LinkedIn can offer updates and posts related to Ensign Group's employee benefits, including any new health initiatives or changes in benefits. Key Terms: Wellness Benefits, Health and Wellness Programs, Employee Health Plans. 5. News Articles Recent News: Look for recent news articles on healthcare benefits or changes at Ensign Group. These articles might discuss new policies, cost changes, or improvements in health benefits. Key Terms: Benefit Enhancements, Policy Changes, Healthcare Coverage Updates. Summary of Recent Employee Healthcare News for Ensign Group: 2022 Updates: Ensign Group has been working on enhancing its healthcare benefits, including improving access to preventive care and expanding wellness programs. They’ve been emphasizing mental health support and telehealth services as part of their comprehensive healthcare offerings. 2023 Developments: In 2023, Ensign Group continued to evolve its health benefits by introducing new flexible spending account options and expanding employee assistance programs. There has been a focus on providing more comprehensive coverage and better support for chronic conditions. 2024 Changes: For 2024, Ensign Group has made adjustments to its health insurance plans, including updates to deductible levels and premium costs. They have also introduced additional wellness incentives and resources to support employee health and well-being.