Merck Employees & RMDs: What You Need to Know Before Age 73
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Merck
Merck & Co., Inc., commonly known as Merck, is a global leader in the healthcare sector, renowned for its innovative pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and biologic therapies. As a prominent healthcare provider, Merck delivers a wide array of health solutions targeting various health conditions, particularly in areas such as immunology, oncology, and infectious diseases.
Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026
In 2026, healthcare costs are projected to rise significantly, primarily driven by the anticipated expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies associated with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and growing medical expenses. Faced with an average premium increase of 18%, healthcare consumers may experience out-of-pocket costs climbing by over 75%. This situation is exacerbated by surging medical care prices, as hospitals and providers seek to balance inflationary pressures while maintaining profitability. As a result, many individuals may find themselves priced out of adequate health coverage, prompting essential discussions on the need for policy interventions.
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'Merck employees can stay ahead of required minimum distributions by planning early and thoughtfully coordinating withdrawals with their broader retirement income goals.' — Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
'Merck employees can benefit from understanding RMD rules early so they can thoughtfully incorporate withdrawals into a long-term income plan that fits their personal goals and timing.' — Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
In this article, we will discuss:
When and how required minimum distributions (RMDs) must be taken.
Which retirement accounts are subject to RMD rules.
Strategies to thoughtfully use RMD withdrawals in retirement.
Under IRS rules, required minimum distributions (RMDs) begin at age 73 for those born between 1951 and 1959. Under these rules, you must take out a specific amount of money annually from tax-deferred retirement plans, such as IRAs, 401(k)s, and 403(b)s, once you turn 73. Answers to common questions are provided below to help you move forward confidently.
What is a required minimum distribution (RMD)?
A required minimum distribution (RMD) is a set amount of money that the IRS mandates you withdraw each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts beginning at age 73, including accounts you may have contributed to while working for Merck.
When do I have to take my RMD?
Every year on December 31, your RMD must be taken. You can wait until April 1 of the year after your 73rd birthday to take your first RMD—but only your first. Delaying may result in taking two RMDs in the same year, which could increase your taxable income.
If I keep working, do I still need to take an RMD?
If you continue working past age 73 and remain in an employer-sponsored plan with your current employer, you may be able to delay RMDs from that account if:
- You are still actively employed
- You own no more than 5% of the company
- The employer plan permits delayed RMDs
This applies only to the plan with your current employer—not to IRAs or plans from former employers.
How is my RMD calculated?
Your RMD is generally calculated by dividing your retirement account balance as of December 31 of the previous year by a life-expectancy factor published by the IRS. The IRS Uniform Lifetime Table is typically used unless a spouse more than 10 years younger is the sole beneficiary.
What can I do with my RMD once I take it?
It helps to think through your options before withdrawing your RMD. For example, Merck professionals may:
Invest it: Place funds into a taxable investment account or contribute to a 529 plan (if eligible)
Spend it: Apply funds to retirement lifestyle needs
Gift it: Use a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly from an IRA, which can satisfy RMD rules starting at age 70½ and is excluded from taxable income. For 2025, QCDs may reach up to
$108,000 per person
1
Which accounts require RMDs?
RMDs generally apply to:
- Most 401(k) and 403(b) plans
- Traditional, rollover, SIMPLE, and SEP IRAs
- Certain small business retirement accounts
Roth accounts in workplace plans—like a Roth 401(k)—do not require RMDs for the original owner starting in 2024. Beneficiaries of inherited Roth accounts may still need to withdraw funds.
What if I inherit an IRA?
Many general RMD rules still apply to inherited accounts. Your required withdrawal schedule depends on your relationship to the original account owner and applicable IRS inheritance rules.
Can I take all my RMDs from one account?
It depends on the account type:
IRAs: Can be aggregated and withdrawn from one or multiple IRA accounts
403(b)s: May be aggregated but calculated separately
401(k)s: Must be calculated
and
withdrawn from each account individually—including any Merck balance still held
Extra withdrawals do not count toward future years’ RMDs.
Are RMDs taxed?
Yes. RMDs are taxed as ordinary income and may be subject to both federal and state income taxes. Taking two RMDs in one year, often caused by delaying the first, can increase your taxable income.
Need help creating your RMD strategy?
Understanding RMDs can influence how you structure your retirement income—especially for Merck employees shifting from workplace plans to personal withdrawal strategies. The Retirement Group can help you build an approach that aligns with your situation. Call us at
(800) 900-5867
to get started.
5. Myers, Elizabeth A.
Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Rules for Original Owners of Retirement Accounts.
Congressional Research Service, 29 Aug. 2024,
www.congress.gov/crs-product/IF12750
.
How does Merck's new retirement benefits program support long-term financial security for employees, particularly regarding the changes to the pension and savings plans introduced in 2013? Can you elaborate on how Merck's commitment to these plans is designed to help employees plan for retirement effectively?
Merck's New Retirement Benefits Program: Starting in 2013, Merck introduced a comprehensive retirement benefits program aimed at providing all eligible employees, irrespective of their legacy company, uniform benefits. This initiative supports Merck's commitment to financial security by integrating pension plans, savings plans, and retiree medical coverage. This approach not only aims to help employees plan effectively for retirement but also aligns with Merck’s post-merger goal of standardizing benefits across the board.
What are the key differences between the legacy pension benefits offered by Merck before 2013 and the new cash balance formula implemented in the current retirement program? In what ways do these changes reflect Merck's broader goal of harmonizing benefits across various employee groups?
Differences in Pension Formulas: Before 2013, Merck calculated pensions using a final average pay formula which typically favored longer-term, older employees. The new scheme introduced a cash balance formula, reflecting a shift towards a more uniform accumulation of retirement benefits throughout an employee's career. This change was part of Merck's broader strategy to harmonize benefits across various employee groups, making it easier for employees to understand and track their pension growth.
In terms of eligibility, how have Merck's pension and savings plans adjusted for years of service and age of retirement since the introduction of the new program? Can you explain how these adjustments might affect employees nearing retirement age compared to newer employees at Merck?
Adjustments in Eligibility: The new retirement program revised eligibility criteria for pension and savings plans to accommodate a wider range of employees. Notably, the pension benefits under the new program are designed to be at least equal to the prior benefits for services rendered until the end of 2019, provided employees contribute a minimum of 6% to the savings plan. This adjustment aids both long-term employees and those newer to the company by offering equitable benefits.
Can you describe the transition provisions that apply to legacy Merck employees hired before January 1, 2013? How does Merck plan to ensure that these provisions protect employees from potential reductions in retirement benefits during the transition period?
Transition Provisions for Legacy Employees: For employees who were part of legacy Merck plans before January 1, 2013, Merck established transition provisions that allow them to earn retirement income benefits at least equal to their current pension and savings plan benefits through December 31, 2019. This ensures that these employees do not suffer a reduction in benefits during the transition period, offering a sense of security as they adapt to the new program.
How does employee contribution to the retirement savings plan affect the overall retirement benefits that Merck provides? Can you discuss the implications of Merck's matching contributions for employees who maximize their savings under the new retirement benefits structure?
Impact of Employee Contribution to Retirement Savings: In the new program, Merck encourages personal contributions to the retirement savings plan by matching up to 6% of employee contributions. This mutual contribution strategy enhances the overall retirement benefits, incentivizing employees to maximize their savings for a more robust financial future post-retirement.
What role does Merck's Financial Planning Benefit, offered through Ernst & Young, play in assisting employees with their retirement planning? Can you highlight how engaging with this benefit changes the financial landscapes for employees approaching retirement?
Role of Merck’s Financial Planning Benefit: Offered through Ernst & Young, this benefit plays a critical role in assisting Merck employees with retirement planning. It provides personalized financial planning services, helping employees understand and optimize their benefits under the new retirement framework. Engaging with this service can significantly alter an employee’s financial landscape by providing expert guidance tailored to individual retirement goals.
How should employees evaluate their options for retiree medical coverage under the new program compared to previous offerings? What considerations should be taken into account regarding the potential costs and benefits of the retiree medical plan provided by Merck?
Options for Retiree Medical Coverage: With the new program, employees must evaluate both subsidized and unsubsidized retiree medical coverage options based on their age, service length, and retirement needs. The program offers different levels of company support depending on these factors, making it crucial for employees to understand the potential costs and benefits to choose the best option for their circumstances.
In what ways does the introduction of voluntary, unsubsidized dental coverage through MetLife modify the previous dental benefits structure for Merck retirees? Can you detail how these changes promote cost efficiency while still providing valuable options for employees?
Introduction of Voluntary Dental Coverage: Starting January 2013, Merck shifted from sponsored to voluntary, unsubsidized dental coverage through MetLife for retirees. This change aligns with Merck’s strategy to promote cost efficiency while still providing valuable dental care options, allowing retirees to choose plans that best meet their needs without company subsidy.
How can employees actively engage with Merck's resources to maximize their retirement benefits? What specific tools or platforms are recommended for employees to track their savings and retirement progress effectively within the new benefits framework?
Engaging with Merck’s Retirement Resources: Merck provides various tools and platforms for employees to effectively manage and track their retirement savings and benefits. Employees are encouraged to utilize resources like the Merck Financial Planning Benefit and online benefit portals to make informed decisions and maximize their retirement outcomes.
For employees seeking additional information about the retirement benefits program, what are the best ways to contact Merck? Can you provide details on whom to reach out to, including any relevant phone numbers or online resources offered by Merck for inquiries related to the retirement plans?
Contacting Merck for Retirement Plan Information: Employees seeking more information about their retirement benefits can contact Merck through dedicated phone lines provided in the benefits documentation or by accessing detailed plan information online through Merck's official benefits portal. This ensures employees have ready access to assistance and comprehensive details regarding their retirement planning options.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Merck offers a defined benefit pension plan with a cash balance formula. Benefits are determined based on years of service and compensation. Employees can choose between a lump-sum payment or a monthly annuity upon retirement.
Operational Changes: Merck is restructuring its business to focus more on its core pharmaceuticals and vaccines segments, leading to layoffs affecting around 1,800 employees (Source: Bloomberg). Strategic Initiatives: The company aims to enhance operational efficiency and invest more in research and development. Financial Performance: Merck reported a 10% increase in net sales for Q3 2023, driven by strong demand for its COVID-19 treatments and vaccines (Source: Merck).
Merck grants RSUs that vest over time, providing shares to employees upon vesting. The company also offers stock options, allowing employees to purchase shares at a fixed price.
For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Merck at 2000 galloping hill road Kenilworth, NJ 7033; or by calling them at 908-423-1000.
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