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BlackRock Retirees: Don't Make These 6 Common Tax Return Mistakes

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for BlackRock BlackRock, a global investment management firm, does not directly provide healthcare services. Instead, they invest in health-related companies and manage assets for clients in various sectors, including healthcare. The specific healthcare providers utilized by BlackRock for employee health benefits may vary based on their corporate policies and the selection of local networks across their operational regions. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 The healthcare landscape is projected to face significant challenges in 2026, primarily driven by sharp increases in Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums. Record hikes are anticipated, with some states, like New York, seeing rises of over 66%. This surge is heavily influenced by the potential expiration of enhanced federal subsidies that have kept costs manageable for many enrollees. Furthermore, escalating medical expenses combined with rising claims from hospitals and providers signal that consumers could see their out-of-pocket premiums jump by 75% or more. The combination of these factors highlights a troubling trend that could leave millions of Americans with limited options for affordable healthcare coverage. Click here to learn more

When it comes to financial planning, especially for BlackRock employees who are nearing or through retirement, tax management is essential to ensuring a comfortable and financially stable future. Due to the intricacy of tax regulations, BlackRock retirees and their advisors may fail to recognize chances for tax savings or, on the other hand, may make mistakes that result in an increased tax liability. This post explores six common errors seen on retirees' tax returns and provides advice on how to potentially avoid them and make the most out of your tax plan.


Myths Regarding Deductions

It's common to misunderstand the choice between choosing the standard deduction versus itemizing deductions. Due to changes in tax legislation after 2018, BlackRock retirees like the hypothetical John and Linda may not benefit from itemizing deductions even though they have a mortgage. This is a common circumstance. It is important to determine if the total of all possible itemized deductions—medical costs that are greater than 7.5% of AGI, mortgage interest, local and state taxes, and charitable contributions—exceeds the standard deduction limit, which for couples over 65 in 2023 was over $30,000.

Distributions from Qualified Charities: An Unused Possibility

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are a useful tactic for BlackRock retirees who want to give to charity in an effective manner. This is especially true for people who no longer itemize deductions. But eligibility starts at seventy-five, and one common mistake is to declare these distributions incorrectly on tax returns. Accurate Form 1040 documentation is necessary to guarantee that these contributions are acknowledged and optimized for taxation.


Unexpected Tax Obligations

Many BlackRock retirees with inefficient investment portfolios or phantom gains have unanticipated tax problems. For example, even in years when the market is down, capital gains distributed by mutual funds might result in large tax bills. Investing in individual stocks or Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) in taxable accounts can provide investors with greater control over their tax obligations and the flexibility to choose when to realize gains.

Ignoring Cost Basis in Stock Transactions

Unnecessary tax burdens may result from selling equities without knowing the cost basis or failing to report it. Investments that were purchased before to the 2011 mandate requiring custodians to monitor this data often do not have a documented cost basis, which could result in the entire selling value being subject to gain taxation. Tax ramifications can be reduced by determining and correctly disclosing the cost basis or by taking these assets into account when making charitable contributions.

Medicare Premiums Tied to Income

The income-based premiums for Medicare Parts B and D are based on the income recorded two years prior to the current year. By submitting an SSA-44 form, BlackRock retirees who are going through a major change in income—such as going into retirement—may be eligible for modified premiums. Unnecessary increases in Medicare premiums can be potentially avoided with awareness and proactive management of income levels.

Making Use of Tax Valleys

This 'tax valley,' where lower income levels offer potential for tax savings, is the period of time between retirement and required withdrawals from retirement plans. Tax advantages that are not accessible during higher income periods can be obtained by strategies like Roth conversions, taking distributions, or realizing capital gains during these years.

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In conclusion, even though handling tax planning and compliance may seem overwhelming, by being proactive and aware of typical pitfalls, one may greatly improve their financial future. BlackRock retirees have many options to reduce their tax obligations and safeguard their financial resources for the future. These options include fine-tuning deduction strategies, maximizing charitable contributions, managing investment portfolios with an eye toward tax implications, accurately reporting all transactions, and strategically managing income to influence Medicare premiums and tax rates.

The effect of a retiree's place of residence on their tax obligations is one tactic that is frequently disregarded. Significant tax benefits are available to retirees in some jurisdictions, such as no state income tax, Social Security income exemptions, and advantageous treatment for pension and retirement account withdrawals. Relocating to a state with low taxes may save you a lot of money on taxes. Assessing state tax laws should be a crucial step in retirees' tax planning process as they make financial plans for the future. This is particularly important to take into account because it can impact estate planning techniques as well as retirement income in general. According to AARP's February 2023 report, 'States with the Best Tax Breaks for Retirees,'

Managing your retirement tax returns is like sailing a ship across the ocean. To safeguard their financial security, retirees must navigate the intricate waters of tax laws and regulations, much as an experienced sailor must be aware of shifting winds, currents, and potential hazards. Errors such as misjudging the impact of investment decisions on taxes, mishandling stock sales, maximizing charitable distributions, underestimating the influence of income on Medicare premiums, and not taking advantage of lower tax years are comparable to missing the good times, hitting undiscovered obstacles, or deciding on an ineffective path. To ensure a prosperous voyage during the retirement years, every action on this journey demands foresight, planning, and a grasp of the surrounding environment to maximize benefits and potentially avoid dangers.

Not Individualized tax advice. Discuss your situation with a qualified tax professional.

What type of retirement savings plan does BlackRock offer to its employees?

BlackRock offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can employees at BlackRock enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at BlackRock can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal during the enrollment period.

Does BlackRock match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, BlackRock provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) plan contributions, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for BlackRock's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for BlackRock's 401(k) plan follows the IRS guidelines, which can change annually.

Can employees at BlackRock take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, BlackRock allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.

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

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

Is there a vesting schedule for employer contributions in BlackRock's 401(k) plan?

Yes, BlackRock has a vesting schedule for employer contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period to fully own those contributions.

How often can employees at BlackRock change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at BlackRock can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.

What happens to a BlackRock employee's 401(k) if they leave the company?

If a BlackRock employee leaves the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account or withdraw the funds, subject to tax implications.

Does BlackRock provide educational resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?

Yes, BlackRock provides educational resources and tools to help employees understand and manage 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.
BlackRock announced a significant restructuring plan, which includes substantial layoffs and changes to employee benefits. The company is also reviewing its pension and 401(k) plans to adjust to the current economic conditions. These changes are part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and reduce costs amid market uncertainties.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for BlackRock at 55 E 52nd St New York, NY 10055; or by calling them at +1 212-810-5300.

*Please see disclaimer for more information

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