<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=314834185700910&amp;ev=PageView&amp;noscript=1">

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

Learn More

Are These Taxes Too Much To Handle For Intel Professionals?

image-table

Healthcare Provider Update: Intel's Healthcare Provider and Upcoming Costs Intel primarily utilizes benefits through various healthcare providers, with many employees accessing plans from major insurers like UnitedHealthcare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, and others depending on geographical region and specific plan offerings. As we look ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to rise significantly, potentially impacting Intel employees and their families. With ACA premium hikes exceeding 60% in some states and the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies looming, many individuals could see their premiums increase by over 75%. Additionally, a rising trend in medical expenses, driven by inflation and supply chain challenges, coupled with escalating pharmaceutical costs, threatens to further strain household budgets. Consequently, these developments necessitate strategic planning by Intel employees to alleviate the financial burden associated with healthcare coverage in the coming year. Click here to learn more

'For Intel employees planning for Retirement, low-income tax states may be appealing, but hidden costs like high property and vehicle taxes can really mess with long-term financial goals - working with an expert like (Advisor Name) at The Retirement Group can help with that,' said '''

Intel retirees should not pick states solely on income tax benefits; Property taxes and other hidden costs can quickly wipe those savings away and working with (Advisor Name) at The Retirement Group can help you make sound decisions about your Retirement future. ''

In this article we will discuss:

  • 1. The impact of property taxes on Intel employees and state finances.

2. See how real estate and vehicle property taxes are calculated across the U.S.

3. Assessing state tax climates for retirement planning.

Property taxes today affect the financial picture for Intel employees and the fiscal health of state and local governments. And the nuances and implications of those taxes warrant close scrutiny by anyone planning for retirement or managing post-employment financial plans.

U.S. Census Bureau figures show the average American household pays about USD 2,690 a year in property taxes. And residents of the 26 states that levied vehicle property taxes pay an average of USD 444 more per year. According to the National Tax Lien Association, more than USD 14 billion in property taxes remain unpaid every year - somewhat alarming given these figures.

Not so, says the popular belief: property taxes affect more than just homeowners. Around 35 percent of American households rent. Even if they do not pay these taxes directly, they are indirectly impacted because property taxes affect rental costs and local governments' financial health.

So we examined real estate and vehicle property taxes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Together with advice from experienced property-tax experts, this gives a snapshot of each state's property tax picture and tax obligation management advice.

Recent research from the Financial Retirement Institute (FRI) found a trend that many would not expect: Some retired people and near-retirees in low-income tax states face unexpected costs that outweigh expected tax savings. For instance, they might pay less state income tax but higher local property, sales, and other taxes. These are expensive if you have investments or real estate. When choosing where to retire one must consider all tax implications, not just state income tax rates.

Real Estate Tax Insights

Real estate tax rates often dictate whether someone should relocate after retirement or invest in property. According to our findings:

Those with the lowest effective real estate taxes are in Hawaii (0.29%), Alabama (0.41%) and Colorado (0.5%). Those with the highest rates are New Jersey (2.47%), Illinois (2.23%) and Connecticut (2.15%). Contextual information: the median property value in the United States in 2021 is USD 244,900. A homeowner in Hawaii would pay USD 700 a year and a resident in New Jersey USD 6,057.

Figure 1: A trajectory of real estate tax changes from historical data shows shifting rankings from 2010 to 2021. And there are also differences between traditionally Democratic states and their Republican counterparts.

Vehicle Property Tax Overview

And automobiles might also be taxable, depending on where you live. Our study revealed:

Several jurisdictions impose no effective vehicle tax - for example, Hawaii, the District of Columbia and Delaware. This means their residents pay no tax on a USD 26,000 automobile.
In contrast, Mississippi charges the highest rate of 3.50 percent, or USD 917 for a USD 26,000 vehicle.

In Conclusion

With changing state fiscal environments come new challenges for Intel experts: understanding real estate and vehicle-related property taxes. Such taxes directly affect retirees and those approaching retirement age - particularly Intel domain retirees. Decisions based on knowledge secure a better financial future.

For more in-depth rankings analysis or advice from experts, our detailed tables and panels are great resources.

A state selected for retirement based solely on its low income tax rate is analogous to buying a vehicle based only on its low retail price. If those initial savings look inviting, you might be surprised at how much maintenance, fuel efficiency, and other hidden costs add up. Similarly, low income taxes may tempt you to a state but state property, sales, and other taxes may be higher. Before you pick your Intel retirement haven, evaluate a state's overall tax climate like you would the total cost of ownership of a vehicle.

Additional Fact:

Recent data from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) show that increasingly many Intel professionals want outside help with property taxes. This trend underscores growing recognition among retirees and near-retirees that professional help is necessary with property tax issues involving relocation or property investments across state lines. Changing laws on property tax can make having a tax professional on your side a benefit for optimal financial planning and minimizing tax liabilities in retirement.

Additional Analogy:

Navigating the world of property taxes in retirement is like choosing a car for a cross-country trip. A car bought purely for its initial price may be a smart move, but regular travelers know the real cost is in the ongoing costs for things like fuel efficiency and maintenance. In a similar vein, picking a state for retirement solely on its low income tax rate might sound appealing, but other costs like property taxes and sales taxes can add up fast. Much like a knowledgeable road trip planner, Intel retirees need to research a state's tax climate before they drive into retirement.

Articles you may find interesting:

Loading...

Sources:

1. Merrill Lynch. 'Taxes & Relocating in Retirement - What to Consider Before a Move.'  Merrill Lynch , Aug. 2019,  www.ml.com/articles/taxes-and-relocating-in-retirement-what-to-think-about-now.html . Accessed 2 Mar. 2025.

2. The Mortgage Reports. 'Property Tax Exemption for Senior | How to Qualify in 2025.'  The Mortgage Reports , Feb. 2025,  themortgagereports.com/63473/how-to-claim-senior-property-tax-exemption . Accessed 2 Mar. 2025.

3. U.S. Department of Defense. 'Financial Planning for Transition: The Tax Implications of Retirement.'  U.S. Department of Defense , Feb. 2025,  finred.usalearning.gov/Money/RetirementTaxes . Accessed 2 Mar. 2025.

4. Loudoun County Government. 'Real Estate Tax Relief for Older Adults & Residents with Disabilities.'  Loudoun County, Virginia , Mar. 2025,  loudoun.gov/5002/Real-Property-Tax-Exemption-Older-Adults . Accessed 2 Mar. 2025.

5. Fairfax County Government. 'Property Tax Relief for Seniors and People with Disabilities.'  Fairfax County, Virginia , Mar. 2025,  fairfaxcounty.gov/taxes/relief/tax-relief-seniors-people-with-disabilities . Accessed 2 Mar. 2025.

How does the Intel Pension Plan define the eligibility criteria for employees looking to retire, and what specific steps must they take to determine their benefit under the Intel Pension Plan?

Eligibility Criteria for Retirement: To be eligible for the Intel Pension Plan, employees must meet specific criteria, such as age and years of service. Benefits are calculated based on final average pay and years of service, and employees can determine their benefits by logging into their Fidelity NetBenefits account, where they can view their projected monthly benefit and explore different retirement dates​(Intel_Pension_Plan_Dece…).

What are the implications of choosing between a lump-sum distribution and a monthly income from the Intel Pension Plan, and how can employees assess which option is best suited for their individual financial circumstances?

Lump-Sum vs. Monthly Income: Choosing between a lump-sum distribution and monthly income under the Intel Pension Plan depends on personal financial goals. A lump-sum provides flexibility but exposes retirees to market risk, while monthly payments offer consistent income. Employees should consider factors like their financial needs, life expectancy, and risk tolerance when deciding which option fits their situation​(Intel_Pension_Plan_Dece…).

In what ways can changes in interest rates affect the lump-sum benefit calculation under the Intel Pension Plan, and why is it essential for employees to be proactive about their retirement planning concerning these fluctuations?

Interest Rates and Lump-Sum Calculations: Interest rates directly affect the lump-sum calculation, as higher rates reduce the present value of future payments, leading to a smaller lump-sum benefit. Therefore, it's crucial for employees to monitor interest rate trends when planning their retirement to avoid potential reductions in their lump-sum payout​(Intel_Pension_Plan_Dece…).

How do factors like final average pay and years of service impact the pension benefits calculated under the Intel Pension Plan, and what resources are available for employees to estimate their potential benefits?

Impact of Final Average Pay and Years of Service: Pension benefits under the Intel Pension Plan are calculated using final average pay (highest-earning years) and years of service. Employees can use available tools, such as the Fidelity NetBenefits calculator, to estimate their potential pension based on these factors, giving them a clearer picture of their retirement income​(Intel_Pension_Plan_Dece…).

How should employees approach their financial planning in light of their Intel Pension Plan benefits, and what role does risk tolerance play in deciding between a lump-sum payment and monthly income?

Financial Planning and Risk Tolerance: Employees should incorporate their pension plan benefits into broader financial planning. Those with a lower risk tolerance might prefer the steady income of monthly payments, while individuals willing to take investment risks might opt for the lump-sum payout. Balancing these decisions with other income sources is vital​(Intel_Pension_Plan_Dece…).

What considerations should Intel employees evaluate regarding healthcare and insurance needs when transitioning into retirement, based on the guidelines established by the Intel Pension Plan?

Healthcare and Insurance Needs: Intel employees approaching retirement should carefully evaluate their healthcare options, including Medicare eligibility, private insurance, and the use of their SERMA accounts. Considering how healthcare costs fit into their retirement budget is crucial, as these costs will likely increase over time​(Intel_Pension_Plan_Dece…).

How can employees maximize their benefits from the Intel Pension Plan by understanding the minimum pension benefit provision, and what steps can they take if their Retirement Contribution account falls short?

Maximizing Benefits with the Minimum Pension Provision: Employees can maximize their pension benefits by understanding the minimum pension benefit provision, which ensures that retirees receive a certain income even if their Retirement Contribution (RC) account balance is insufficient. Those whose RC accounts fall short will receive a benefit from the Minimum Pension Plan (MPP)​(Intel_Pension_Plan_Dece…).

What resources does Intel offer to support employees in their retirement transition, including assessment tools and financial planning services tailored to those benefiting from the Intel Pension Plan?

Resources for Retirement Transition: Intel provides several resources to support employees' transition into retirement, including financial planning tools and access to Fidelity's retirement calculators. Employees can use these tools to run scenarios and determine the most beneficial pension options based on their financial goals​(Intel_Pension_Plan_Dece…).

What strategies can retirees implement to manage taxes effectively when receiving payments from the Intel Pension Plan, and how do these strategies vary between lump-sum distributions and monthly income options?

Tax Strategies for Pension Payments: Managing taxes on pension payments requires strategic planning. Lump-sum distributions are often subject to immediate taxation, while monthly income is taxed as regular income. Retirees can explore tax-deferred accounts and other strategies to minimize their tax burden​(Intel_Pension_Plan_Dece…).

How can employees of Intel contact Human Resources to get personalized assistance with their pension questions or concerns regarding the Intel Pension Plan, and what specific information should they be prepared to provide during this communication?

Contacting HR for Pension Assistance: Intel employees seeking assistance with their pension plan can contact HR for personalized support. It is recommended that they have their employee ID, retirement dates, and specific pension-related questions ready to expedite the process. HR can guide them through benefit calculations and options​(Intel_Pension_Plan_Dece…).

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Intel offers a Minimum Pension Plan with a cash balance component. Benefits are calculated based on years of service, final average pay, and excess final average pay. Employees can choose between a lump-sum payment or monthly annuities upon retirement.
Layoffs and Restructuring: Intel is laying off around 12,000 employees as part of its restructuring plan to focus on cloud computing and data centers. Operational Strategy: The company is shifting its focus from PC-centric to data-centric businesses (Source: CNBC). Financial Performance: Despite the layoffs, Intel reported a strong financial performance in Q4 2023, with revenue increasing by 8% year-over-year (Source: Intel).
Intel Corporation provides stock options (SOs) and RSUs as part of its equity compensation packages. Stock options allow employees to purchase company stock at a fixed price after a specified vesting period, while RSUs vest over a few years based on performance or tenure. In 2022, Intel enhanced its equity programs with performance-based RSUs to align employee incentives with corporate goals. This trend continued in 2023 and 2024, with broader RSU availability and performance-linked stock options. Executives and middle management receive significant portions of their compensation in stock options and RSUs, fostering long-term alignment with company performance. [Source: Intel Annual Report 2022, p. 45; Intel Q4 2023 Report, p. 23; Intel Q2 2024 Report, p. 12]
Intel Corporation has been consistently updating its employee healthcare benefits to adapt to the changing economic, investment, tax, and political environment. In 2022, Intel introduced enhanced fertility benefits, offering up to $40,000 in fertility treatments and $15,000 for adoption expenses without any lifetime cap. These benefits are designed to support employees in starting or expanding their families, reflecting Intel's commitment to employee well-being and family support. Additionally, Intel provides comprehensive health coverage that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with mental health support through various wellness apps like CALM, Modern Health, and Headspace. In 2023, Intel further bolstered its healthcare benefits by integrating advanced AI solutions to improve healthcare delivery and efficiency. Intel's AI technology is being used in medical imaging, predictive analytics for early intervention, and enhancing telemedicine services. These innovations aim to provide better healthcare support to employees by enabling more accurate diagnostics and efficient healthcare management. Intel's focus on leveraging AI for healthcare aligns with its broader strategy to drive innovation and improve employee health and productivity, ensuring the company remains competitive in a dynamic economic landscape.
New call-to-action

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Intel employees

Loading...

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Intel at 2200 mission college blvd Santa Clara, CA 95054; or by calling them at 1-408-765-8080.

https://www.intel.com/content/dam/www/central-libraries/us/en/documents/2022-08/benefits-overview-guide-us.pdf - Page 5, https://assets.ey.com/content/dam/ey-sites/ey-com/en_us/topics/tax/ey-us-employment-tax-rates-and-limits-for-2023-october-25.pdf?download - Page 12, https://www.ajg.com/us/-/media/files/gallagher/us/news-and-insights/2024-retirement-plan-limits.pdf - Page 15, https://www.intel.com/content/dam/www/central-libraries/us/en/documents/2023-11/climate-transition-action-plan-2023.pdf - Page 8, https://www.intel.com/content/dam/www/central-libraries/us/en/documents/2022-08/benefits-overview-guide-us-2.pdf - Page 22, https://assets.kpmg.com/content/dam/kpmg/us/pdf/2022/10/22323.pdf - Page 28, https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/rr-22-02.pdf - Page 20, https://www.intel.com/content/dam/www/central-libraries/us/en/documents/2023-11/climate-transition-action-plan-2023-2.pdf - Page 14, https://www.intel.com/content/dam/www/central-libraries/us/en/documents/2023-11/climate-transition-action-plan-2023-3.pdf - Page 17, https://www.intel.com/content/dam/www/central-libraries/us/en/documents/2022-08/benefits-overview-guide-us-3.pdf - Page 23

*Please see disclaimer for more information

Relevant Articles

Check Out Articles for Intel employees