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

Navigating Estate Planning: Answers to the Top 5 Questions for WestRock Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for WestRock: WestRock employees typically receive their health care benefits through various providers as part of employer-sponsored insurance plans. Specific details on the primary healthcare provider may vary, but it's known that large companies like WestRock often collaborate with major insurers. To identify the exact provider, employees should consult their HR department, which can provide the most accurate and relevant information. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As WestRock prepares for 2026, employees should brace for significant healthcare cost increases. With the expiration of enhanced federal ACA subsidies and rising medical costs, many workers could face steep premium hikes, potentially exceeding 75%. A recent survey indicates that nearly half of large employers, including WestRock, anticipate transferring more healthcare expenses to employees, raising deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. This evolving landscape highlights the importance for WestRock employees to understand their benefits and mitigate potential financial impacts. Click here to learn more

Estate planning is a complex process that need for considerable thought and preparation, particularly in light of changing tax and regulatory requirements. The estate planning landscape is dynamic; by the end of 2025, the regulations in place now are expected to have undergone major changes. Estate plans must be reviewed in light of this impending change to make sure they are still appropriate and in line with WestRock individuals needs and objectives.

The conversation that follows tackles the most common questions by WestRock individuals and others about estate planning, based on knowledge from Fidelity's Advanced Planning Team, which consists of professionals including Terri Lyders, Mike Christy, Sander Bleustein, and Lisa Pro. Their combined knowledge simplifies complicated estate planning issues and provides direction and clarity for handling this important procedure.

One of the main worries is what happens if gifts are made below the exemption barrier, which as of 2024 is $13.61 million per person, and if this exemption is reduced after 2025. The regulations issued by the Treasury Department in November 2019 guarantee that those who use the higher exemption amounts for gifts given between 2018 and 2025 won't suffer negative consequences when the exemption goes back to what it was before 2018. With this clause, there is no more concern about a 'clawback' on contributions that surpass future exemption limits, which encourages thoughtful giving without fear of future tax consequences. Furthermore, WestRock individuals can give gifts to numerous recipients totaling up to $18,000 per year without exceeding their lifetime exemption cap.

The federal estate tax is applicable to all assets left to heirs, regardless of the kind of asset or account in which it is held. However, depending on the kind of account, the asset transfer process can differ greatly. Retirement accounts, like 401(k)s and IRAs, for example, have unique tax implications and transferability restrictions. Typically, gifting methods concentrate on transferring taxable assets, such as real estate or brokerage accounts, in order to maximize tax efficiency and reduce the income tax liability of the recipient. While strategies like Roth conversions can be especially advantageous, careful planning is necessary from WestRock individuals to ensure that they are in line with the overall goals of the estate.

For individuals leaving real estate or business holdings as bequests, the possible adjustments to inheritance tax limits may cause anxiety. The decedent's estate is responsible for paying estate taxes; the beneficiaries' intended use of the inherited assets has no bearing on these duties. Beneficiaries may be required to pay inheritance taxes in areas where they apply. The likelihood of a lower estate tax exemption threshold in 2026 emphasizes how crucial liquidity planning is for paying taxes and preventing the forced sale of inherited property.

Because the death benefit of a life insurance policy is included in the decedent's gross estate, life insurance is essential to estate planning. Nonetheless, irrevocable trust-owned life insurance policies are not included in the estate, providing a way to reduce the estate tax obligation. The ability to fund life insurance premiums through trust beneficiaries is made possible by the flexibility of yearly exclusion gifts, which facilitates tax optimization and strategic estate planning.

Because laws and each WestRock individual circumstances change often, it is necessary to examine one's estate plan on a frequent basis. Every three to five years is the suggested period, though it may be sooner if there are significant life events. Updates to an estate plan may be necessary due to changes in legal regulations, family composition, net worth, or place of residence. For arranging an estate and being ready for legal consultations, tools such as the online Estate Planner® from Fidelity are a great resource.

In conclusion, managing the intricacies of estate planning necessitates being proactive and keeping up with the changing legal environment. WestRock individuals may efficiently manage their estate planning efforts, guaranteeing their legacy is preserved and their successors are well-protected, by addressing important questions and taking strategic planning alternatives into consideration.

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Apart from the essential estate planning factors mentioned, it's crucial to acknowledge the influence of digital assets on estate planning. According to an AARP analysis from 2021, digital assets—such as social media profiles, online banking, and cryptocurrency—are becoming more and more important parts of contemporary estates. However, in conventional estate planning, these resources are frequently disregarded. Estate plans must contain specific procedures to guarantee that these assets are accounted for and handled in accordance with the beneficiaries' preferences. This emphasizes how important it is to include digital asset management in estate planning conversations in order to guarantee a thorough strategy for asset distribution and legacy preservation.

Getting around estate preparation is like getting ready for a long trip on a luxury ship. Estate planning requires careful attention to detail and foresight, just as you would meticulously plan your travel itinerary, choosing the right destinations (gift exemptions and estate taxes), making sure your luggage is appropriately tagged and organized for each leg of the trip (strategizing asset transfers and managing digital assets), and arranging for the most comfortable and efficient mode of transportation (using Roth conversions and comprehending life insurance implications). The changes that are coming in 2025 are like shifting tides, forcing everyone on board to review their navigational aids. Consulting with estate planning professionals guarantees that your legacy journey is fulfilling and in line with your ultimate goal, just as an experienced traveler seeks advice from a captain or cruise director to maximize their experience.

How does the WestRock Company Consolidated Pension Plan specifically calculate the Normal Retirement Benefit for its employees, and what considerations should employees be aware of regarding the Final Average Pay calculation used by WestRock Company?

Normal Retirement Benefit Calculation: The WestRock Company calculates the Normal Retirement Benefit based on the employee's Final Average Pay. This is defined as the average of the employee's highest five years of earnings over the last ten years of employment before termination. Earnings included in the Final Average Pay are most wages, bonuses, commissions, and amounts deferred under the company’s 401(k) plan. Employees should be aware that earnings after December 31, 2015, are excluded unless they qualify under the Rule of 75(WestRock Company_Issued…).

What are the specific eligibility requirements for the Disability Retirement Pension under the WestRock Company plan, and how does this differ for Legacy Mead and Legacy Westvaco participants within the WestRock Company workforce?

Disability Retirement Pension Eligibility: To qualify for a Disability Retirement Pension, an employee must have earned at least five years of Vesting Service and be deemed "totally and permanently disabled" according to specific criteria. Legacy Mead and Legacy Westvaco participants are subject to special rules detailed in the Legacy Supplement. Legacy Mead employees must apply separate criteria from Legacy Westvaco employees(WestRock Company_Issued…).

In what ways can employees at WestRock Company manage and maximize their Vesting Service to ensure they receive the full benefits from the companyâ€™s pension plan, particularly for those with interrupted service or re-employment?

Vesting Service Maximization: WestRock employees can manage their Vesting Service by ensuring that they complete at least five years of service, which guarantees their right to pension benefits. Employees with interrupted service can still receive credit for Vesting Service if they return within five years. Additionally, employees who leave and return within a year will receive credit for the time they were absent(WestRock Company_Issued…).

How does the WestRock Company handle the transition of benefits for employees who transfer between different positions within the company, and what impacts could this have on their eventual retirement benefits?

Transfer Between Positions: When WestRock employees transfer between different positions, their retirement benefit is calculated based on the greater of two methods. The first method calculates the benefit accrued at each position separately, while the second method applies the total benefit service across positions. Vesting Service is always combined, regardless of location or position(WestRock Company_Issued…).

How does the WestRock Company plan ensure that pension benefits are protected, particularly through the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), and what should employees know about their rights and guarantees under this insurance?

Pension Benefit Protection (PBGC): The WestRock Pension Plan is insured by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC). This federal insurance guarantees that employees will receive their vested pension benefits even if the plan is terminated. Employees should understand that PBGC coverage has limits, and benefits might be reduced under certain circumstances(WestRock Company_Issued…).

What are the consequences for WestRock Company employees who choose to withdraw from their pension plan or to rollover their benefits upon retirement or termination? How can they navigate these options effectively to avoid penalties?

Withdrawals and Rollovers: Employees can withdraw or roll over their pension benefits upon retirement or termination. Lump-sum withdrawals may be subject to taxes unless rolled over into a qualifying retirement account. Employees should consult the WestRock Benefits Center to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with federal tax regulations(WestRock Company_Issued…).

How does the WestRock Company maintain compliance with federal regulations and best practices under ERISA, and what specific rights do employees have concerning their pension benefits?

ERISA Compliance: WestRock complies with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), ensuring that employees' pension rights are protected. Employees have the right to receive information about their benefits, act prudently, and enforce their rights through the claims and appeals process outlined in the plan(WestRock Company_Issued…).

What resources are available to employees of WestRock Company for understanding their benefits under the Consolidated Pension Plan, and how can they utilize these resources to ensure they make informed decisions about their retirement?

Resources for Understanding Benefits: WestRock provides employees access to the WestRock Benefits Center, where they can obtain information on their pension plan. Employees are encouraged to review the Summary Plan Description and consult with the Benefits Center for clarification on their benefits and to make informed retirement decisions(WestRock Company_Issued…).

How will the integration of employee benefits from various company acquisitions impact current staff at WestRock Company, and what steps is the company taking to communicate these changes effectively to its employees?

Impact of Acquisitions on Benefits: WestRock has acquired various companies over time, and employees from these acquisitions may have different pension rules applied to them. WestRock takes steps to integrate these employees and communicates any changes through the WestRock Benefits Center. Special rules may apply based on the previous employer’s pension plan(WestRock Company_Issued…).

How can employees of WestRock Company get in touch with the WestRock Benefits Center to seek clarification about the Summary Plan Description, and what are the best practices to follow when requesting information regarding their pension plan?

Contacting the Benefits Center: Employees can contact the WestRock Benefits Center for clarification on the Summary Plan Description. Best practices include having detailed questions prepared, reviewing the SPD in advance, and requesting copies of documents or forms that clarify specific aspects of their pension plan(WestRock Company_Issued…).