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

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Essential 2024 Tax Break Insights for H&R Block Employees: What You Need to Know

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Healthcare Provider Update: H&R Block's Healthcare Provider and Cost Increase Overview Healthcare Provider: H&R Block employees typically rely on major insurance carriers for their health benefits, though specific providers may vary by location. Generally, the company integrates offerings from national insurers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, and others to provide comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As 2026 approaches, H&R Block employees may face significant increases in healthcare costs, primarily driven by anticipated record hikes in ACA marketplace premiums. With reports indicating potential rate increases exceeding 60% in some states and an overall expected rise of 18%, many employees could see out-of-pocket expenses swell substantially-by as much as 75% for those losing enhanced federal subsidies. This surge in healthcare expenses underscores the pressing need for H&R Block workers to review their benefits and explore strategic options, such as optimizing Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), to mitigate personal financial impacts. Click here to learn more

The corporate landscape has seen significant upheavals with job losses spanning various industries, touching even the most robust workforces. In 2023, the technology sector alone saw over 260,000 job terminations, with major players like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft at the forefront. Similarly, Citigroup reported about 20,000 job cuts, equating to roughly 10% of its workforce, with comparable reductions at UPS, Macy's, and even Sports Illustrated.


For H&R Block employees, these unsettling times bring crucial financial decisions to the forefront, particularly concerning the management of 401(k) plans, a critical component of many workers' life savings. In this climate, financial advisors are more essential than ever, aiding employees in understanding their options amid new fiduciary regulations from the Department of Labor, emphasizing the importance of informed asset transfers to individual retirement accounts (IRAs).

One often-overlooked strategy is the net unrealized appreciation (NUA) tax deduction, particularly valuable for employees holding H&R Block stock in their 401(k)s. As stock values potentially increase, this equity can represent a significant part of retirement plans and offer substantial tax savings if managed correctly.

Under the NUA tax benefit, H&R Block company shares within a 401(k) can be part of a qualified lump-sum distribution. At distribution, the stock's appreciation is taxed at the favorable long-term capital gains rate, rather than the higher regular income tax rate—this applies even if the stock was held for less than a year. However, any appreciation after the distribution and before sale is taxed as ordinary income unless held for at least one year.


The NUA benefit is contingent on specific conditions. Firstly, a qualifying event like a layoff, retirement, or other separation from the company must trigger it. Other qualifying events include death, disability (only for self-employed), and reaching age 59½. Secondly, the distribution must occur within one calendar year following the triggering event as part of a qualified lump-sum distribution.

Consider the case of John, a 62-year-old who was recently laid off from his tech company. John had $1 million in his 401(k), $800,000 of which was in company stock, originally purchased for $100,000. The market value of these shares had significantly appreciated. Opting for a lump-sum distribution, John transferred the $800,000 in company stock to a brokerage account and rolled the remaining $200,000 into an IRA tax-free. He paid ordinary income tax only on the original $100,000 cost basis, while subsequent sales of the stock were taxed at lower capital gains rates.

This strategic approach not only leverages a significant tax advantage but also reduces the volume of assets rolled over to an IRA, impacting future required minimum distributions (RMDs). Financial advisors need to assess the potential for stock appreciation within 401(k) plans to determine the prudence of such distributions.

As we progress through the early months of the year, advisors should prepare for potential NUA transactions, requiring careful execution. Understanding these financial strategies can transform the adverse event of a layoff into a substantial tax advantage.

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H&R Block employees and those affected by job cuts should consider resources like Ed Slott's 2-Day IRA Workshop for deeper insights into retirement planning and IRA management. For more information and registration, visit IRAhelp.com. Proactive financial planning can significantly mitigate the impact of job losses and optimize retirement outcomes.

For individuals aged 60 and older, the 2024 tax year brings an increased standard deduction, providing an additional tax benefit for retirees, especially those aged 65 and above. The increased standard deduction amounts to $1,750 for single filers and $1,400 for married couples filing jointly, allowing for more disposable income in retirement. This information is crucial for effective budget planning and is based on recent IRS updates.

Navigating the financial aftermath of layoffs with adept 401(k) management and taking advantage of the NUA tax deduction is akin to a skilled captain steering a ship through challenging waters. Just as the captain utilizes natural elements for a smoother, faster voyage, retirees can adeptly navigate their financial landscape, minimizing tax liabilities while maximizing retirement savings. A sound financial strategy can give you confidence in your retirement plans, much like a well-navigated maritime journey helps ensure a safe and swift passage.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
H&R Block Pension Plan: Name of Pension Plan: Look for official H&R Block documents or reports from 2022, 2023, and 2024 to identify the name of the pension plan. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Search for criteria related to eligibility, which often include years of service and age. Pension Formula: Find specific details on how the pension benefit is calculated. H&R Block 401(k) Plan: Name of 401(k) Plan: Identify the specific 401(k) plan name from H&R Block’s reports or plan documents. Eligibility: Determine who qualifies for participation in the 401(k) plan.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, H&R Block announced a major restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This move included a reduction in workforce, affecting around 200 positions across various departments. The company stated that the decision was driven by the need to adapt to the evolving tax services market and to invest in digital solutions. This restructuring is significant due to the current economic environment, which is characterized by uncertainty and rapid technological changes, impacting job security and company strategies.
H&R Block Stock Options (2022-2024): 2022: H&R Block provided stock options to senior executives and key employees as part of their incentive programs. Stock options were available primarily to those in leadership roles and high-impact positions within the company. 2023: In 2023, H&R Block continued to offer stock options, with an emphasis on aligning employee interests with company performance. Options were granted based on performance targets and tenure. 2024: H&R Block maintained its stock option program, with updates to align with market conditions and internal performance metrics. Eligibility remained focused on senior leadership and strategic contributors.
H&R Block Official Site: hrblock.com Health Benefits: H&R Block offers a range of health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. The company provides options for both in-network and out-of-network care, with varying levels of coverage depending on the plan. They also offer Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to help employees manage out-of-pocket expenses. Glassdoor Glassdoor: glassdoor.com Employee Reviews: According to employee reviews on Glassdoor, H&R Block provides competitive health benefits, including comprehensive medical insurance plans, dental, and vision coverage. The benefits are generally rated positively by employees, with specific praise for the company’s supportive health programs and wellness initiatives. Indeed Indeed: indeed.com Health Benefits: Reviews on Indeed confirm that H&R Block's health benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance. The company also offers wellness programs and has received feedback about the effectiveness of their health benefits in supporting employee well-being. LinkedIn LinkedIn: linkedin.com Company Profile: H&R Block’s LinkedIn page mentions that the company provides a comprehensive benefits package including healthcare, wellness programs, and retirement plans. Specific details are not always available, but the general sentiment is positive regarding their health benefits. Benefits Guide Benefits Guide: benefitsguide.com Recent Updates: For 2023 and 2024, H&R Block has updated its health benefits offerings to include enhanced telehealth services and mental health resources. There is a focus on providing better access to mental health professionals and expanded telemedicine options as part of their overall healthcare strategy.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for H&R Block at , ; or by calling them at .

https://www.hrblock.com/ https://www.thelayoff.com/ https://www.benefitsguide.com/start-here https://www.indeed.com/ https://www.glassdoor.com/index.htm

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