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

Luxottica Employees Earning $150K+: New Roth Catch-Up Rules Begin in 2026

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Luxottica Luxottica utilizes EssilorLuxottica, its parent company, as its primary healthcare provider. EssilorLuxottica has made significant strides in integrating wellness and health services for its employees to ensure they receive comprehensive healthcare tailored to their needs. Upcoming Healthcare Cost Increases for 2026 As we approach 2026, healthcare costs are expected to rise significantly, with estimates indicating potential increases of up to 75% in out-of-pocket premiums for many consumers. This surge is largely attributed to the anticipated expiration of enhanced ACA premium subsidies and simultaneous rate hikes from major insurers, with states like New York reporting increases as high as 66%. Coupled with ongoing inflation in medical costs and a spike in demand for healthcare services, companies like Luxottica may see substantial financial pressure, necessitating strategic planning to mitigate the impact on both employees and operational budgets. Click here to learn more

'With mandatory Roth catch-up contributions beginning in 2026 for higher earners, Luxottica employees should take a coordinated approach to their 401(k), HSA, and IRA strategies to align income, timing, and long-term retirement goals,' – Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'As Roth catch-up rules reshape contribution strategies for higher earners in 2026, Luxottica employees should revisit how their workplace plans, HSAs, and IRA options fit together within a broader retirement framework,' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

(1) How the SECURE 2.0 Act changed catch-up contribution rules beginning in 2026.

(2) What mandatory Roth treatment for higher earners means for workplace retirement planning.

(3) Additional tax-advantaged strategies Luxottica employees may want to review as part of a broader retirement planning approach.

The way some higher-income employees make catch-up contributions to their employer retirement plans has changed beginning in 2026. This may directly impact many Luxottica employees who are age 50 or older and earning above certain compensation thresholds.

Several legislative provisions that broaden or mandate Roth treatment in specific situations—such as requiring Roth catch-up contributions for certain higher earners—were included in the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 (Division T of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023).

The IRS has issued guidance clarifying the implementation timeline and wage threshold under Section 603 of SECURE 2.0.

What Is the New Rule Regarding Catch-Up Contributions to 401(k)s?

If you are age 50 or older and your prior year Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) wages from the employer sponsoring your retirement plan exceed the applicable threshold, your catch-up contributions must now be made as Roth contributions.

For 2026 catch-up treatment purposes, the threshold is based on 2025 FICA wages exceeding $150,000 (indexed for inflation in future years). ¹

Roth 401(k) contributions are made with after-tax dollars, meaning they are not deductible in the current tax year. However, if eligible Roth 401(k) distributions are taken after the five-year holding period and after age 59½, due to disability, or after death, those distributions are generally tax-free.

2026 Contribution and Catch-Up Amounts

2026 Limits: ²

- Employee elective deferral limit: $24,500
- Catch-up (age 50+): $7,500
- Catch-up (age 60–63): $11,250 (if permitted by the plan)

The total annual defined contribution limit (employee + employer contributions) for 2026 will be $72,000, excluding catch-up contributions.

If 2025 FICA wages exceed $150,000, 2026 catch-up contributions must be made on a Roth basis.

Under current law, this Roth catch-up requirement is a statutory change that does not expire unless amended by Congress.

Plans that do not offer designated Roth contributions may be unable to allow catch-up contributions once the IRS transition period concludes, which generally began in 2026.

If prior year FICA wages are below the threshold, the required Roth rule does not apply.

Other Factors to Consider When Planning for Retirement

If the catch-up rule change affects your strategy, it may be worth reviewing other tax-advantaged options available to Luxottica employees.

1. Consider a Health Savings Account (HSA)

If enrolled in an HSA-eligible health plan, an HSA offers several tax features:

Contributions are not subject to federal income tax.
Earnings grow tax-free.
Withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free.

Contributions made through payroll deduction are generally not subject to FICA or FUTA taxes.

After age 65, HSA funds may be used for non-medical expenses without penalty, though withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income.

HSA Contribution Limits

2026: ³

- $4,400 (individual)
- $8,750 (family)

Individuals age 55 or older who are not enrolled in Medicare may contribute an additional $1,000 catch-up amount.
2. Increase Regular 401(k) Contributions

The employee elective deferral limit increases to $24,500 in 2026.

This limit applies only to employee contributions and does not include employer matching contributions.

3. Review Partial Roth IRA Contributions

Eligibility for Roth IRA contributions is based on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI).

2026 Phase-Out Ranges: ²
Single: $153,000 to $168,000

Married filing jointly: $242,000 to $252,000
Direct Roth IRA contributions are not permitted above the upper phase-out limit. Contributions for a prior tax year may generally be made up until the tax filing deadline of the following year.

Roth 401(k)s and Roth IRAs each have separate five-year aging requirements for qualified distributions.

4. Review a Traditional IRA

For 2026, the IRA contribution limit is $7,500, with a $1,100 catch-up for those age 50 or older.

Even if participating in a workplace retirement plan, non-deductible contributions may still be made to a traditional IRA up to the annual limit. Earnings grow tax-deferred, though non-deductible contributions do not reduce current taxable income.

5. Consider a “Backdoor” Roth IRA Strategy

A “backdoor” Roth IRA involves making a non-deductible contribution to a traditional IRA and then converting it to a Roth IRA.

Owning other traditional IRAs with pre-tax assets can affect the tax treatment of conversions due to pro-rata rules.

Converted Roth amounts must meet a separate five-year aging rule to avoid certain penalties.

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Why Professional Guidance Matters for Luxottica Employees

Changes to catch-up contribution rules and shifting contribution limits can influence long-term retirement planning decisions. Coordinating 401(k) contributions, IRAs, HSAs, and Roth strategies often involves detailed analysis of income levels, plan design, and tax considerations—particularly for Luxottica employees with higher earnings.

The Retirement Group can help you understand how these new regulations apply to your personal situation and assist in building a retirement strategy aligned with your long-term goals. To speak with a retirement planning professional, call (800) 900-5867.

Sources:

1. Kelley R. Taylor. “Roth 401(k) Changes: New Rules to Know for 2025 and 2026 Taxes.” Kiplinger , 2 Feb. 2026, www.kiplinger.com/taxes/roth-401k-changes-what-you-should-know .

2. United States, Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service. “401(k) Limit Increases to $24,500 for 2026, IRA Limit Increases to $7,500.” IRS Newsroom , 13 Nov. 2025, www.irs.gov/newsroom/401k-limit-increases-to-24500-for-2026-ira-limit-increases-to-7500 .

3. Cross, Diane. “2026 Benefit Limits: HSA, HDHP, and ACA.” Sequoia , 15 May 2025, www.sequoia.com/2025/05/2026-benefit-limits-hsa-hdhp-and-aca/ .

What is the purpose of Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The purpose of Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis.

How can I enroll in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?

You can enroll in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What types of contributions can I make to Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and potentially catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan.

Does Luxottica offer a company match on 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Luxottica provides a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

What is the vesting schedule for Luxottica's 401(k) company match?

The vesting schedule for Luxottica's 401(k) company match typically follows a graded schedule, where employees earn ownership of the match over a specified period of service.

Can I change my contribution amount in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution amount at any time during the year by submitting a request through the HR portal or contacting HR.

What investment options are available in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Luxottica's 401(k) Savings 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 I reallocate my investments in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can reallocate their investments in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan as often as they wish, subject to any specific trading restrictions set by the plan.

Is there a loan option available in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan may allow employees to take loans against their account balance under certain conditions.

What happens to my Luxottica 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?

If you leave Luxottica, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over to an IRA or another employer's plan, or cashing it out, though cashing out may incur 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.

Luxottica provides a defined contribution 401(k) plan with company matching contributions. Employees can contribute pre-tax or Roth (after-tax) dollars, and Luxottica matches a percentage of eligible compensation. The plan includes various investment options, such as target-date funds and mutual funds. Luxottica provides financial planning resources and tools to help employees manage their retirement savings.

EssilorLuxottica, formed from the merger of Luxottica and Essilor, has announced the consolidation of marketing jobs from Mason, Ohio to New York, with other corporate functions moving to Dallas. This restructuring is aimed at improving collaboration and building a unified corporate culture. While hundreds of jobs are being relocated, positions in EyeMed Vision Insurance, IT, and legal departments will remain in Mason. In response to economic pressures, EssilorLuxottica has decided to cancel its dividend for the fiscal year 2023 and reduce directors' pay. This measure is intended to mitigate financial impacts and ensure business continuity. The company may propose a special dividend payment later if the business recovery is robust enough.

Luxottica includes RSUs in its compensation packages, vesting over a specific period and providing shares upon vesting. Stock options are not typically part of their compensation plan.

Luxottica has designed its employee healthcare benefits to adapt to the dynamic economic and political climate of recent years. In 2023 and 2024, Luxottica has offered multiple medical and dental insurance plan options, ensuring comprehensive coverage for their employees. These options include high-deductible health plans with Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions of $500 for employees and an additional $500 for their spouses. The company also provides free vision insurance, leveraging its expertise in the eyewear industry to offer significant eyewear and product discounts to its employees. Additionally, Luxottica's benefits package includes a robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP), mental health support, and wellness initiatives to promote overall well-being (HACONTENT) (EssilorLuxottica Group Jobs). In the current economic landscape, addressing healthcare benefits is crucial for attracting and retaining talent. Luxottica's approach to employee benefits reflects a broader trend where companies seek to balance cost management with high-quality healthcare provision. The emphasis on personalized healthcare plans and comprehensive support systems underscores the company's commitment to employee satisfaction and productivity. By integrating wellness programs and flexible healthcare options, Luxottica not only addresses immediate healthcare needs but also contributes to the long-term well-being of its workforce. Discussing healthcare benefits remains important as companies navigate economic uncertainties and healthcare regulations, ensuring that employees receive the necessary support to thrive both personally and professionally (HACONTENT) (EssilorLuxottica Group Jobs). Next, let's examine the healthc

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Luxottica at 1000 nicollet mall Minneapolis, MN 55403; or by calling them at 612-696-6098.

https://www.luxottica.com/documents/pension-plan-2022.pdf - Page 5, https://www.luxottica.com/documents/pension-plan-2023.pdf - Page 12, https://www.luxottica.com/documents/pension-plan-2024.pdf - Page 15, https://www.luxottica.com/documents/401k-plan-2022.pdf - Page 8, https://www.luxottica.com/documents/401k-plan-2023.pdf - Page 22, https://www.luxottica.com/documents/401k-plan-2024.pdf - Page 28, https://www.luxottica.com/documents/rsu-plan-2022.pdf - Page 20, https://www.luxottica.com/documents/rsu-plan-2023.pdf - Page 14, https://www.luxottica.com/documents/rsu-plan-2024.pdf - Page 17, https://www.luxottica.com/documents/healthcare-plan-2022.pdf - Page 23