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Navigating Inheritance Taxes: Key Insights for Century Communities Employees to Consider

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Century Communities The primary healthcare provider for Century Communities is often facilitated through the company's employee benefits program, which includes options for major insurers. However, specific healthcare providers may vary based on the employees' locations and plans selected. Generally, employees can access several national insurers that are common in employer-sponsored health plans. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As health insurance premiums for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace are projected to surge in 2026, many employees of Century Communities could face significant financial strain. A combination of escalating medical costs and the potential expiration of federal subsidies may result in average premium increases of over 60% in certain states, with some individuals seeing their out-of-pocket costs jump by approximately 75%. This drastic rise in expenses can disproportionately affect middle-income families, complicating retirement planning and financial stability. With proactive budgeting and strategic healthcare planning becoming increasingly essential, employees should prepare for these potentially daunting changes ahead. Click here to learn more

Especially for Century Communities employees residing in one of the six states where an inheritance tax is levied, inheriting can be a substantial financial event. Effective financial planning may need a thorough understanding of the intricacies of this tax, including how it applies and what techniques can be used to lessen its effects.

Knowing About Inheritance Tax

State governments impose inheritance taxes on those who inherit property from a deceased person's estate. Inheritance taxes are paid by the beneficiary as opposed to estate taxes, which are subtracted from the estate prior to distribution. There is no inheritance tax levied by the federal government.

Tracy Craig, chair of the Trusts and Estates Practice Group at the Massachusetts law firm Seder & Chandler, notes that inheritance tax rates can differ greatly and are frequently affected by the beneficiary's relationship to the decedent. Closer relatives usually enjoy lower tax rates. A number of state regulations may exempt some assets from this tax, including life insurance proceeds.

Important Disparities between Estate Tax and Inheritance

State-imposed inheritance taxes are to be paid by the beneficiary. The value of inherited assets determines the tax liability. Estate Tax: A tax levied at the federal and occasionally state levels that is settled out of the estate prior to heir distribution.

Beneficiaries may be allowed to write off the amount paid on their federal tax returns in areas where inheritance tax is payable, which might lower their overall tax burden.

States Having a Death Tax

As of 2023, the following states have inheritance taxes:

Iowa: between 2% and 4%
Kentucky: from 4% to 16%
Maryland: ten percent
Nebraska: from 1% to 18%
New Jersey: 11–16%
Pennsylvania: 4.5% to 15%

In these states, an inheritance tax return must be filed to record the distribution and taxation of the estate's assets. Most states have criteria below which inheritance taxes are not owed, and in some cases, the entire inheritance may be free.

For instance, tax rates in New Jersey vary depending on the beneficiary categorization. Class C beneficiaries, such as siblings and in-laws, receive a $25,000 exemption from inheritance taxes; amounts beyond this are subject to tax rates ranging from 11% to 16%. Class A beneficiaries, who are usually immediate relatives, are not liable to inheritance taxes. Interestingly, Iowa intends to completely eliminate its inheritance tax by January 1, 2025.

Methods for Reducing Inheritance Tax

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There are a few tactics to think about in order to lessen the effects of inheritance taxes:

Lifetime Gifts: You can lower your taxable estate by transferring assets during your lifetime.
Trusts: Putting assets in trusts might protect them from inheritance and estate taxes.
Relocation: To completely escape these taxes, if at all possible, have heirs live in a state where there is no inheritance tax.

Crucially, most state laws favor immediate family in inheritance scenarios, and assets bequeathed to spouses and direct descendants are generally excluded from inheritance taxes.

In Summary

Inheritance tax is complicated, so navigating it takes careful planning and knowledge of both state and federal tax laws. Century Communities employees thinking about retirement and estate planning should take into account the potential impact of state-level inheritance taxes on their savings. Knowing the tax ramifications for IRA and 401(k) accounts upon inheritance is very important. Research shows that inherited retirement accounts may be subject to various tax treatment scenarios depending on state legislation and beneficiary designations. The tax effects on retirement assets bequeathed to heirs may be lessened by carefully choosing beneficiaries and considering Roth conversions. This estate planning component is crucial to ensuring retirement funds are effectively transmitted to beneficiaries.

Planning a smart retirement and navigating inheritance tax require strategic estate management to maximize tax benefits, much like a seasoned CEO organizes their exit strategy to maximize rewards and avoid interruptions. Diversifying the kinds of assets and how they are allocated in an estate can lessen the tax consequences for heirs, similar to diversifying a retirement portfolio to withstand market changes. Understanding and exploiting exemptions, such as trusts or smart asset transfers, requires timing and expertise to ensure your legacy is as strong as your career at Century Communities.

Disclosure: Not tax advice. Discuss your individual situation with a qualified tax professional.

What type of retirement plan does Century Communities offer to its employees?

Century Communities offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

Is there a company match for contributions to the Century Communities 401(k) plan?

Yes, Century Communities provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, helping to enhance your retirement savings.

How can employees enroll in the Century Communities 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the Century Communities 401(k) plan through the company’s designated benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in the Century Communities 401(k) plan?

Generally, employees of Century Communities who meet specific criteria, such as age and length of service, are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan.

Can employees change their contribution percentage to the Century Communities 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the Century Communities 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan's rules.

What investment options are available in the Century Communities 401(k) plan?

The Century Communities 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Does Century Communities provide financial education resources for employees regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Century Communities offers financial education resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed investment decisions.

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

If you leave Century Communities, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the plan if permitted.

Are there any fees associated with the Century Communities 401(k) plan?

Yes, like most 401(k) plans, the Century Communities 401(k) plan may have administrative and investment fees. Employees can review the plan documents for detailed information.

How often can employees contribute to the Century Communities 401(k) plan?

Employees can contribute to the Century Communities 401(k) plan through payroll deductions, which occur on each pay period.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

In 2024, Century Communities announced a restructuring plan that includes reducing its workforce by 8% and making significant changes to its benefits package, including increased employee contributions to retirement plans.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Century Communities at 8390 East Crescent Parkway, Suite 650 Greenwood, CO 80111; or by calling them at 1-303-268-8390.