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How IDEX Employees Can Benefit from Estate Planning During Market Volatility

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Healthcare Provider Update: IDEX provides medical, dental, and vision insurance through national and regional carriers. Employees benefit from prescription drug coverage, HSAs, FSAs, and company-paid life insurance. The company offers a 401(k) with matching and standalone contributions, tuition assistance, and wellness programs. Community involvement is encouraged through the IDEX Foundation 9. IDEX With ACA premiums projected to rise sharply, IDEXs competitive benefits and community-focused support help employees avoid the financial burden of marketplace plans. Click here to learn more

'IDEX employees facing market downturns can leverage strategic estate planning opportunities, such as gifting undervalued assets and using tools like GRATs and Roth IRAs, to mitigate taxes and pass on more wealth to heirs—turning market volatility into an advantage.' – Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'IDEX employees should view market downturns as an opportunity to reassess their estate planning strategies, using tools like GRATs and Roth IRA conversions to transfer more wealth while mitigating tax liabilities for future generations.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

  1. How market downturns can present estate planning opportunities.

  2. The strategic use of tools like GRATs and Roth IRA conversions.

  3. The importance of charitable giving in reducing taxable estates during volatile periods.

Estate planning is often seen as a challenging process, particularly during volatile market conditions. Making decisions with long-term impacts can be difficult when share prices are erratic and future market performance is uncertain. However, careful planning during these volatile periods can lead to better future returns and more efficient asset transfer to successors. While many focus on estate planning during market upswings, some of the most strategic decisions can be made when asset values are declining, particularly for IDEX employees preparing for retirement.

Estate Planning and Volatility: A Strategic Advantage

Estate planning is often associated with market growth, focusing on transferring assets when prices are high. Yet, when assets are undervalued due to market downturns, significant opportunities often arise. The market's recovery after a sharp drop, like the one in April, shows how volatility can lead to wise decision-making. Future wealth transfers can be optimized by focusing on asset quantity instead of current value, as more shares can be passed on to heirs before gift-tax exemptions are exceeded, which can be an important strategy for IDEX employees planning their estates.

The concept of moving assets during a market downturn proves to be more beneficial for estate planners than it may initially appear. When asset prices are low, more shares can be transferred before hitting the $19,000 annual federal gift-tax exemption threshold for 2025. This strategy allows heirs to benefit from future growth once the market recovers, providing a valuable option for those at IDEX looking to optimize their estate planning during volatile times.

This approach is also useful for those aiming to stay under the $14 million per person lifetime federal estate tax exemption. For example, if a business was initially valued at $15 million but is now worth $14 million, a donor can place it in a trust. The tax-free transfer of future expansion to heirs keeps the business outside the donor's estate, a strategy that IDEX employees could consider when planning for their family's future.

Changes to Gifting Exemptions Affecting Taxes

Though market downturns can provide estate planning benefits, it’s important to remember that estate planning laws are always changing. With Congress debating potential changes to gifting amounts, it’s essential to act while exemptions remain high. If the estate tax exemptions aren't renewed, the exemption may revert to around $6.8 million, adjusted for inflation. This shift could greatly impact wealth transfer plans, so it’s vital for IDEX employees to take advantage of higher exemption levels while they are still in place.

Exploring Other Estate Planning Strategies

Grantor retained annuity trusts (GRATs) are another option for individuals who have already used their lifetime exemption but still want to reduce wealth transfer taxes. These irrevocable trusts allow individuals to leave assets to their heirs while retaining annuity income for a period. GRATs help mitigate estate taxes on any asset appreciation during the trust's duration, offering an option for IDEX employees looking to pass on their wealth in a tax-efficient way.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sets the annuity payout rate at 120% of the applicable federal mid-term rate, which is currently 5%. For beneficiaries to profit from additional value, the asset's growth must exceed this hurdle rate. If the asset's growth surpasses this rate, the remaining balance in the trust is distributed to the heirs tax free. IDEX employees considering this strategy can potentially avoid estate taxes and preserve their wealth from future tax burdens.

Although current interest rates aren't exceptionally low, Dos Santos notes that using undervalued assets in a GRAT may still lead to favorable outcomes. By leveraging lower asset prices, individuals can establish GRATs with a higher chance of surpassing the hurdle rate when the market rebounds, a strategy that could be beneficial for IDEX employees who want to plan ahead.

A Simpler Approach: Switching to a Roth IRA

Not all estate planning strategies need to be complicated. Sometimes, simpler methods provide significant tax advantages. For instance, a 90-year-old IDEX employee switched from a $5 million traditional IRA to a Roth IRA during a period of market decline. The client reduced the taxable estate by paying the conversion taxes upfront, and now her son will receive the entire Roth IRA tax-free, along with any future gains.

Dos Santos believes this is a smart strategy, especially for seniors concerned about their taxable estates. By reducing the size of the estate, the Roth IRA allows its full value to be passed on tax-free to future generations, making it a great option for IDEX employees planning for their heirs.

The Importance of Thoughtful Estate Planning Decisions

Estate planning should be done with care, especially when using irrevocable trusts like GRATs. Once assets are placed in these trusts, they cannot be withdrawn, so individuals must carefully consider their choices. Nevertheless, strategic estate planning presents unique opportunities to pass on more wealth to heirs without incurring unnecessary taxes, particularly during market volatility. IDEX employees can make the most of these opportunities by strategically planning their estate transfers.

For those looking to efficiently transfer wealth and reduce their taxable estate, current market conditions may present opportunities. Market downturns can provide a tactical advantage, whether through Roth IRA conversions, using the federal estate tax exemption, or establishing GRATs. By focusing on the number of shares rather than current asset values, individuals can position themselves to realize long-term benefits and enable their heirs to inherit the full value of their transferred assets.

In conclusion, volatility is often viewed as a threat to financial stability, but it can actually be an asset when approached strategically. By leveraging low asset values during market downturns, IDEX employees can potentially increase future returns and build a better future for their heirs.

Tax Benefits of Charitable Giving in Estate Planning

When considering estate planning during volatile market periods, charitable giving offers additional tax benefits. By donating depreciating assets such as stocks or real estate directly to a charity, individuals can reduce their taxable estate and avoid paying capital gains tax on appreciated assets. This tactic not only reduces estate taxes but also allows individuals to give back.

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Sources:

1. Fuscaldo, Donna.  'Markets Are Down: Here's How Your Estate Can Benefit.'  Kiplinger , 15 Mar. 2025,  www.kiplinger.com . Accessed 26 May 2025.

2. Chmielewski, Paul.  'Estate Planning During Times of Market Volatility.'  Cerity Partners , 25 Mar. 2025,  www.ceritypartners.com . Accessed 26 May 2025.

3. Kiplinger Staff.  'Eight Ways to Financially Plan Your Way Through Challenging Times.'  Kiplinger , 24 May 2025,  www.kiplinger.com . Accessed 26 May 2025.

4. Kotlikoff, Laurence.  'This Move Can Save You Tons on Taxes in Retirement. It's Best to Go Big.'  Barron's , 25 May 2025,  www.barrons.com . Accessed 26 May 2025.

5. Branton, Steve.  'How Sequence of Returns Risk Could Affect Your Retirement—And What HNW Investors Should Do.'  Investopedia , 25 May 2025,  www.investopedia.com . Accessed 26 May 2025.

What type of retirement plan does IDEX offer to its employees?

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

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

IDEX employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the employee benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does IDEX offer any matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, IDEX provides matching contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees save more for retirement.

What is the maximum contribution limit for IDEX employees participating in the 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for IDEX employees is set by the IRS and may change annually; employees should refer to the latest IRS guidelines for specific limits.

Are there any vesting requirements for the employer match in IDEX's 401(k) plan?

Yes, IDEX has a vesting schedule for employer matching contributions, which determines when employees fully own those contributions.

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

Yes, IDEX allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

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

IDEX offers a variety of investment options in its 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

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

IDEX employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts during designated enrollment periods or as specified in the plan documents.

What happens to my 401(k) if I leave IDEX?

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

Is there a penalty for withdrawing funds from my IDEX 401(k) before retirement age?

Yes, there is typically a penalty for early withdrawals from the IDEX 401(k) plan, in addition to regular income taxes.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Name of Pension Plan: IDEX Corporation does not have a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, they primarily offer defined contribution plans, including 401(k) plans. Years of Service and Age Qualification: IDEX Corporation generally does not offer a traditional pension plan; thus, there are no specific criteria for years of service or age for pension benefits. Pension Formula: Not applicable as IDEX Corporation focuses on 401(k) plans. 401(k) Plan Information Name of 401(k) Plan: IDEX Corporation’s 401(k) plan is generally referred to as the "IDEX 401(k) Plan." Who Qualifies: Employees typically become eligible for the 401(k) plan after completing a probationary period, which is often six months of service. Company Contribution: IDEX Corporation may offer a company match to employee contributions, though specific match percentages and contribution limits should be verified in the most recent plan documents.
IDEX Announces Restructuring Plan: In March 2024, IDEX announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. The plan involves the closure of several non-core facilities and a reduction in workforce. This move is part of IDEX’s strategy to focus on its core business areas and improve operational efficiency. Source: Reuters
IDEX provided stock options (SO) and restricted stock units (RSU) for its employees as part of its compensation package in 2022. IDEX stock options are typically available to senior management and key employees based on performance and tenure. IDEX RSUs were granted to select employees as part of their long-term incentive plan.
Recent Changes: In 2023, IDEX increased their health benefits offerings by expanding telemedicine services and adding more preventive care benefits. They also adjusted their premium contributions to ease the financial burden on employees. Healthcare Trends: There has been a notable shift towards incorporating mental health resources and virtual care solutions into employee benefit programs.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for IDEX at , ; or by calling them at .

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