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How AECOM Employees Can Navigate New 401(k) Rules Amid Pension Changes Before 2028

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for AECOM AECOM employees are primarily covered through its benefit partnership with UnitedHealthcare. This relationship provides comprehensive health insurance options to the workforce, including various plan structures designed to meet diverse healthcare needs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, AECOM employees may face substantial healthcare cost increases as many large companies, including AECOM, prepare to adjust their benefit structures in response to rising medical costs. The Affordable Care Act marketplace is projected to see premium hikes exceeding 60% in some states, primarily reflecting the loss of enhanced federal subsidies. This situation has the potential to significantly raise out-of-pocket expenses for employees as employers may shift more costs onto their workforce; over half are likely to increase deductibles or out-of-pocket limits. Employees need to strategically navigate their options and familiarize themselves with upcoming benefit changes to mitigate the impact of these financial pressures. Click here to learn more

The Act mandates that employees, including AECOM workers, aged 50 and above, earning over $145,000 in the previous year, must make any additional contributions to their 401(k) plans on a Roth basis. This means these contributions will be made with after-tax money. Consequently, while these employees cannot claim a tax deduction for these contributions, their withdrawals during retirement will be tax-free. For 2023, this translates to an additional contribution limit of $7,500, allowing for a total contribution of $30,000 for those over 50.

Implications for High-Earning AECOM Employees

The new rule significantly impacts how high earners plan for retirement. Under this system, they pay taxes upfront on their catch-up contributions but benefit from tax-free growth and withdrawals. This differs from traditional pre-tax 401(k) contributions, where taxes are deferred until withdrawal in retirement.

Vanguard's report highlights that in 2022, 16% of eligible employees utilized catch-up contributions. The shift to Roth contributions could alter the retirement planning landscape, especially for those in higher tax brackets who might prefer deferring taxes.

Challenges and Legislative Errors

Despite its intent, Secure Act 2.0 faces operational and legislative challenges. A notable error in the Act is the accidental omission of a provision increasing the pre-tax deferral limit by the amount of any catch-up contribution, effectively making these contributions technically illegal. Congress has acknowledged this mistake and is working towards a resolution.

Furthermore, there are concerns about the implementation timeline. The American Retirement Association (ARA), along with over 200 employers and financial institutions, has requested a two-year delay, citing a lack of clarity and the need for extensive administrative adjustments.

Public Perception and Government Role

There is some debate over the government's role in dictating the nature of retirement savings. The shift to mandatory Roth contributions for high earners has sparked discussions about the psychology of savings and government intervention. Some argue that this move might not be well-received by AECOM workers, particularly as it requires paying taxes during higher-earning years rather than potentially lower tax rates in retirement.

Potential Benefits of Roth Accounts

Despite the controversies, Roth accounts offer distinct advantages, especially for higher earners. The Act eliminates required minimum distributions from Roth 401(k)s before the account holder's death, a feature not available in traditional retirement accounts. This can be particularly beneficial for those seeking flexibility and tax-efficient growth.

Consequences of Non-Action by Congress

If Congress does not address these issues promptly, there could be significant repercussions for retirement savings in 2024. Many plans might be forced to eliminate catch-up contributions entirely for the year. This would not only limit the retirement saving opportunities but also the potential growth of these investments.

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Possible Solutions and IRS Involvement

In the event of continued legislative delays, the IRS and U.S. Treasury could intervene. The ARA suggests that temporary relief could be provided by deferring the enforcement of new rules, a strategy previously used in managing complex required minimum distribution rules for certain inherited retirement accounts.

Conclusion

The introduction of Secure Act 2.0 marks a pivotal change in retirement planning for high earners. While it offers the benefit of tax-free withdrawals, it also presents challenges in implementation and public reception. The resolution of these issues will be crucial for the smooth transition and effectiveness of the new regulations in shaping retirement savings strategies.

An important consideration for those nearing retirement is the potential impact of the Secure Act 2.0 on Social Security benefits. While the Act focuses on 401(k) plans, it's crucial to understand that high-earning individuals may also face implications on their Social Security benefits. According to a report by the Social Security Administration (SSA) published in 2023, individuals with higher incomes could see an increase in their provisional income, potentially leading to a higher percentage of their Social Security benefits being subject to tax. This could affect retirement planning, as the combination of mandatory Roth contributions and increased taxable Social Security benefits may require a reevaluation of retirement income strategies, particularly for those in higher tax brackets.

Navigating the changes brought by Secure Act 2.0 for high-earning retirement savers is akin to a seasoned sailor adjusting to new maritime regulations. Just as a sailor, well-versed in navigating the open seas, must adapt to new navigation rules to ensure a smooth and lawful journey, high-earning professionals must now steer their retirement savings plans in accordance with the new 401(k) contribution regulations. The shift to mandatory Roth contributions is like changing the type of sail mid-voyage – it requires a new strategy and understanding, but can potentially lead to more favorable winds in the future, offering tax-free withdrawals in retirement, much like a sailor reaching calm waters after a period of adjustment.

What is the 401(k) plan offered by AECOM?

AECOM offers a 401(k) plan that allows employees to save for retirement by contributing a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or after-tax basis.

How does AECOM match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

AECOM provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

What are the eligibility requirements for AECOM’s 401(k) plan?

Employees of AECOM are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specific period of service, typically within the first year of employment.

Can I change my contribution percentage to AECOM's 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to AECOM's 401(k) plan at any time, subject to certain guidelines.

What investment options are available in AECOM's 401(k) plan?

AECOM's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

How can I access my AECOM 401(k) account information?

Employees can access their AECOM 401(k) account information through the plan's online portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to my AECOM 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave AECOM, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, leave it in the AECOM plan, or withdraw the funds, subject to tax implications.

Is there a loan option available through AECOM's 401(k) plan?

Yes, AECOM allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance under certain conditions.

How often can I change my investment allocations in AECOM's 401(k) plan?

Employees can change their investment allocations in AECOM's 401(k) plan as often as they wish, typically without restrictions.

Does AECOM offer financial education resources for 401(k) participants?

Yes, AECOM provides financial education resources and workshops to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
This news is crucial due to the economic environment as companies streamline operations to enhance efficiency and shareholder value. The restructuring can lead to more robust financial performance, vital for investors. Additionally, share buybacks indicate confidence in financial stability, which is significant in the current volatile market conditions​ (AECOM Investors)​​ (Los Angeles Business Journal)​.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for AECOM at 300 South Grand Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90071; or by calling them at (213) 593-8000.

*Please see disclaimer for more information

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