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

What EPAM Systems Employees Should Know About 2025 and 2026 Federal Tax Brackets

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for EPAM Systems EPAM Systems primarily partners with large health insurers, but specific healthcare providers may vary depending on the regional office and employee benefits package they offer. Typically, recognized national insurers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, and Cigna are among those involved in providing healthcare coverage to EPAM Systems employees. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As 2026 approaches, EPAM Systems employees should prepare for potential healthcare cost increases, significantly influenced by the anticipated rise in Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums. States may see hikes upwards of 60%, with many large insurers adjusting their rates to counteract escalating medical expenses and the possible expiration of federal premium subsidies. Without these subsidies, over 22 million participants could face out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75%. Consequently, employees at EPAM Systems could find themselves absorbing a larger share of healthcare costs, prompting the need for proactive planning and informed decision-making regarding their healthcare benefits. Click here to learn more

'EPAM Systems employees can benefit from understanding how progressive tax brackets influence long-term income planning,' explains Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement. 'That's why I encourage individuals to review these rules carefully and consult a qualified tax professional for guidance tailored to their situation.'

'EPAM Systems employees can gain clarity in their retirement planning by recognizing how federal tax brackets shape income decisions,' says Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement. 'I encourage individuals to work with a qualified tax professional to evaluate how these rules may apply to their circumstances.'

In this article, we will discuss:

How federal tax brackets work and why they matter.
How taxable income is calculated for retirement planning.
Strategies that may help reduce taxable income.

Navigating taxes can feel more manageable when you understand how your income is allocated to various federal tax bands. Income tax is calculated by the IRS using seven brackets that adjust annually for inflation. You do not pay the same rate on every dollar you earn because income is taxed progressively. Instead, your taxable income is divided into ranges, each taxed at its own rate. EPAM Systems employees can benefit from understanding how their tax brackets may change as they prepare for retirement income decisions.

Below are the IRS’s official 2025 and 2026 bracket tables, along with an explanation of how federal brackets work. The Retirement Group can help review how these rules may influence your long-term income strategy. You can reach us at (800) 900-5867 .

How Federal Tax Brackets Work

The seven federal income tax brackets in the United States are 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37% .

This progressive structure means that each additional portion of income is taxed according to the next bracket as taxable income increases, which may be important for EPAM Systems employees reviewing future retirement income.

Your marginal tax rate applies to the last dollar of taxable income you earn. Your effective tax rate represents the overall percentage of income paid toward federal tax after all brackets are applied.

Your tax brackets also depend on the filing status you choose:

- Single
- Married filing jointly
- Married filing separately
- Head of household (single with a qualifying dependent)

The IRS adjusts these brackets every year to account for inflation.

How Your Taxable Income Is Calculated

To determine taxable income, start by adding all sources of taxable income, such as interest, qualifying pre-2019 alimony, tips, bonuses, and both employment and freelance earnings.

Next, subtract items already included on your W-2, such as contributions to a health savings account (HSA) or retirement plan contributions through your employer (401(k)).

Then subtract either your itemized deductions or the standard deduction—whichever applies. The remaining amount is your taxable income.

A Federal Effective Tax Rate Example

If a married couple with $150,000 in total income files jointly in 2025 and takes the standard deduction of $31,500 , their taxable income becomes $118,500 . Their federal tax calculation would look like this:

- 10% on the first $23,850 → $2,385
- 12% on $23,851 to $96,950 → $8,772
- 22% on the remaining amount up to $118,500 → $4,741

- Total federal income tax: $15,898

- Effective tax rate: approximately 10.6%

(All bracket values sourced from IRS inflation adjustment notices above.)

Possible Strategies to Lower Taxable Income

These approaches may help reduce taxable income and potentially push you into a lower tax bracket:

- Contributing to traditional IRAs or employer retirement plans
- Adding funds to an HSA if enrolled in a qualifying high-deductible health plan
- Using tax-loss harvesting in taxable brokerage accounts
- Considering the timing of controlled income, such as bonuses or freelance payments

Starting in 2026, taxpayers who do not itemize may deduct up to $1,000 (single filers) or $2,000 (married filing jointly) for eligible cash charitable contributions.

Do You Have Questions About How Taxes Influence Retirement?

Federal tax brackets play a key role in retirement planning, especially when reviewing withdrawal timing, Social Security decisions, and income sources. EPAM Systems employees can explore how tax rules fit into their broader retirement planning with guidance from The Retirement Group .

For personalized retirement discussions, call us at (800) 900-5867 .

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Sources:

1. Internal Revenue Service. Revenue Procedure 2024-40. 22 Oct. 2024,
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/rp-24-40.pdf . Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

2. Tax Policy Center. “How Do Federal Income Tax Rates Work?” Tax Policy Center Briefing Book , Jan. 2024,
https://www.taxpolicycenter.org/briefing-book/how-do-federal-income-tax-rates-work . Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

3. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). “Retirement Accounts.” FINRA for Investors ,
https://www.finra.org/investors/investing/investment-accounts/retirement-accounts . Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

4. Adams, Hayden. “Using Tax Brackets to Manage Your Taxable Income.” Charles Schwab , 12 Feb. 2025,
https://www.schwab.com/learn/story/using-tax-brackets-to-manage-your-taxable-income . Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

5. Vanguard. “Year-End Tax-Savings Tips.” Vanguard Investor Resources & Education , 26 Aug. 2025,
https://investor.vanguard.com/investor-resources-education/article/year-end-tax-tips . Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

What retirement savings options does EPAM Systems offer to its employees?

EPAM Systems offers a 401(k) plan as a primary retirement savings option for its employees.

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

Yes, EPAM Systems provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in the EPAM Systems 401(k) plan?

Employees of EPAM Systems are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, typically within the first year.

How can employees at EPAM Systems enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at EPAM Systems can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What types of investment options are available in the EPAM Systems 401(k) plan?

The EPAM Systems 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, index funds, and target-date funds.

Can employees at EPAM Systems take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, EPAM Systems allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What is the vesting schedule for EPAM Systems’ 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for EPAM Systems’ 401(k) matching contributions typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which employees can review in the plan documents.

How often can employees at EPAM Systems change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at EPAM Systems can change their 401(k) contribution amounts during designated enrollment periods or as specified by the plan guidelines.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves EPAM Systems?

If an employee leaves EPAM Systems, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the EPAM Systems plan if allowed.

Are there any fees associated with the EPAM Systems 401(k) plan?

Yes, the EPAM Systems 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

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

EPAM Systems provides a 401(k) plan that was established in 2006. By the end of 2022, the EPAM Systems, Inc. 401(k) Plan had total assets of $258,770,185 with 4,037 participants. On average, participants had an account balance of $64,099. The plan includes automatic enrollment, meaning that employee contributions are deducted directly from payroll unless employees opt out. Additionally, EPAM Systems offers a self-directed brokerage option, allowing employees to invest part of their account as they see fit. The company matches approximately 47.93% of employee contributions, with an average employer match of $4,967 per participant in 2022. The 401(k) plan is a critical component of EPAM Systems' employee benefits package, reflecting their focus on long-term financial planning for their employees. In terms of their pension plan, EPAM Systems does not provide detailed public information about a specific pension formula or defined benefit plan in the same manner they outline their 401(k) offering. However, based on their comprehensive 401(k) plan, it is clear that the company emphasizes retirement planning through this mechanism.

Layoffs: In early 2024, EPAM Systems announced a reduction in its workforce by approximately 4% globally. This decision was influenced by a slowdown in demand for its services, which is part of a broader trend affecting the tech sector. The company indicated that the layoffs were a strategic move to align its workforce with the current economic conditions and client needs. Benefits and Pension Changes: EPAM Systems has also made adjustments to its employee benefits program, including modifications to its 401(k) matching contributions and changes to pension plan options. These changes are intended to better manage the company’s financial resources in light of current economic uncertainties. Given the volatile economic climate and evolving tax policies, staying updated on these changes is crucial for employees to make informed financial decisions.

EPAM Systems offers stock options (SO) and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of their employee compensation package. SO allows employees to purchase company stock at a set price, while RSUs grant employees company shares after certain conditions are met. These benefits are typically available to senior employees and key contributors.

Company’s Official Website: Check EPAM Systems' official site for their latest health benefits information. Health Benefits Information: Plan Types: Details on the types of health plans offered (e.g., PPO, HMO). Coverage Details: Information on coverage for medical, dental, vision, mental health, etc. Acronyms and Terms: Specific healthcare-related terms and acronyms used by EPAM Systems.