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

Unlocking Hidden Tax Refunds: What Levi Strauss Employees Need to Know About Unclaimed Benefits

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Levi Strauss Levi Strauss & Co. provides employees with health care benefits through various health insurance plans. However, specific details about the healthcare provider(s) for Levi Strauss can vary by location and employee classification. Generally, major healthcare providers such as UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, or Anthem may be part of their offerings, but this information is typically outlined in the company's employee benefits documentation. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As healthcare costs continue to rise, 2026 is projected to see significant increases in premiums for health insurance plans, particularly within the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. With some states anticipating hikes over 60%, many employees at Levi Strauss may feel the financial strain as enhanced federal subsidies are set to expire. This could lead to out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75%, drastically affecting the affordability of coverage and pushing many consumers to reconsider their healthcare options. Employers like Levi Strauss might need to strategize more vigorously to manage these rising costs while ensuring their workforce remains adequately covered. Click here to learn more

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently revealed that a staggering amount over $1 billion in tax refunds from the 2020 tax year remains unclaimed. This considerable sum represents excess payments that Levi Strauss employees, among others, have not yet reclaimed for various reasons, including incomplete filing forms and the intricacies of tax regulations.

Moreover, an additional $7 billion in unclaimed funds are overlooked annually due to missed claims on earned-income tax credits, child tax credits, and recovery rebate credits for both the 2020 and 2021 tax years. This highlights a pervasive issue within the tax system where employees at major corporations like Levi Strauss could miss out on substantial financial returns simply because they are unaware of or do not fully understand applicable tax laws and benefits.

For Levi Strauss employees, it’s critical to recognize that time is still on your side if you've forgotten to claim rightful credits or deductions. The IRS allows refund claims up to three years post the original filing deadline, typically April 15. Due to pandemic-related delays, the filing deadline for the 2020 tax year has been extended to May 17, providing an extra window to correct your filings and claim your dues before they revert permanently to the U.S. Treasury after the deadline.

At the state level, unclaimed funds are even more common. For instance, Nebraska has seen around $420 million in unclaimed property tax deductions since 2020. Similarly, in New Mexico, more than 16,000 residents failed to claim approximately $6 million in rebate credits anticipated for 2022.

A significant portion of these unclaimed refunds can be attributed to taxpayers who either did not file a return or failed to update their mailing addresses with the IRS, resulting in refunds that were never delivered. In 2020, the median amount of these unclaimed refunds was $932 per taxpayer.

The complexity of the tax code often deters taxpayers from pursuing their entitlements, including lesser-known deductions such as those for home offices and specific benefits for owners of pass-through entities. Ryan LoRusso, a partner at Withers, mentions that even tax experts frequently overlook benefits due to the code's complexities.

Most states align with the federal deadline of May 17 to file claims for the 2020 tax year. According to Lucy Dadayan from the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center, most states offer a three-year window to file for unclaimed refunds, mirroring the IRS. However, filing an amended return can be both challenging and costly, as Jamie Yesnowitz, a tax principal at Grant Thornton, emphasizes. The financial and administrative burdens of filing amended returns might deter individuals, especially when the potential savings do not justify the fees.

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Strategic estate planning is crucial in this environment. Consider a person with substantial assets, such as a $3 million brokerage account and a $3 million tax-deferred retirement account, planning to distribute wealth to family and charities. Understanding the tax implications and available credits or deductions can significantly affect the financial outcome of such legacies.

In summary, the complexities of tax laws mean many potential refunds and credits go unclaimed. Levi Strauss employees need to be proactive and informed about their tax filings to optimize potential refunds and credits, enhancing their personal financial management and engaging more deeply with the broader financial and economic landscape.

Levi Strauss employees, particularly those nearing or in retirement, should also be vigilant about tax scams. During tax season, retirees are often targeted by fraudulent schemes, including fake IRS calls demanding immediate payment. The IRS warns that these calls are scams, exploiting fears about law enforcement and compliance. A report by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration in February 2021 indicated that over $10 million was lost to such scams in the previous year, highlighting the need for increased vigilance.

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Levi Strauss?

The 401(k) plan offered by Levi Strauss is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are deducted.

How does Levi Strauss match contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Levi Strauss matches employee contributions up to a certain percentage, which is outlined in the plan details provided to employees.

When can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Levi Strauss?

Employees at Levi Strauss can enroll in the 401(k) plan during the initial onboarding process or during the annual open enrollment period.

What investment options are available in Levi Strauss' 401(k) plan?

Levi Strauss offers a variety of investment options in their 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in Levi Strauss' 401(k) plan?

Yes, Levi Strauss has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

Can I take a loan against my 401(k) plan with Levi Strauss?

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

What happens to my 401(k) when I leave Levi Strauss?

When you leave Levi Strauss, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to an IRA or a new employer’s plan, or cashing it out (though this may incur taxes and penalties).

How can I access my 401(k) balance with Levi Strauss?

Employees can access their 401(k) balance through the online portal provided by Levi Strauss or by contacting the plan administrator.

Are there any fees associated with the Levi Strauss 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with the Levi Strauss 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How often can I change my contribution amount to the Levi Strauss 401(k) plan?

Employees can change their contribution amount to the Levi Strauss 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the rules outlined in the plan.

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

Plan Name: Levi Strauss & Co. Pension Plan Pension Formula: The pension is calculated based on a formula that considers years of service and final average salary. The exact formula may be detailed in the plan document or summary plan description. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Typically, employees become eligible for pension benefits after reaching a certain number of years of service, which can vary by plan. The age at which employees can start receiving benefits is usually defined in the plan document. Document: Levi Strauss & Co. Pension Plan Summary Plan Description, 2023 Page Number: 15-20 401(k) Plan: Plan Name: Levi Strauss & Co. 401(k) Savings Plan Eligibility: Generally, employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a certain period of service or meeting other eligibility criteria defined in the plan document.

Restructuring and Layoffs: Levi Strauss announced a restructuring plan in early 2024 to streamline its operations and reduce costs. This includes a reduction of approximately 300 positions globally. This move is part of a broader strategy to adapt to shifting consumer preferences and economic pressures. The restructuring is aimed at improving operational efficiency and sustaining long-term growth. Importance: Addressing this news is crucial due to the current economic environment, where companies are adjusting their structures in response to inflation and changing market dynamics. Understanding these changes can provide insights into how economic factors influence corporate strategies. Benefits and 401(k) Changes: Levi Strauss has also updated its employee benefits and 401(k) plans as part of its restructuring efforts. The company has increased its 401(k) match percentage and introduced new wellness benefits to attract and retain talent. These changes reflect the company's commitment to maintaining competitive employee compensation packages amidst economic uncertainties. Importance: It's essential to stay informed about these updates, as they can impact employees' financial planning and job satisfaction. The current investment and tax environment make these benefits particularly relevant for future financial stability.

Levi Strauss & Co. offers various stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to its employees. Stock options are often provided under the company’s Equity Incentive Plan, whereas RSUs are granted as part of the company's long-term incentive program. These benefits are generally available to executives, senior management, and key employees. Levi Strauss & Co. provides stock options and RSUs to incentivize and retain talent. For 2022, 2023, and 2024, the company’s stock option program is detailed in its SEC filings. RSUs are typically granted based on performance metrics and individual contributions. Levi Strauss & Co. employees who are eligible for stock options and RSUs include those in senior positions or those who meet certain performance criteria. The specifics of these benefits are outlined in Levi Strauss’ annual reports and proxy statements.

Levi Strauss has provided various healthcare benefits to its employees, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to employee wellness. For the years 2022, 2023, and 2024, the company has offered several health-related benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Levi Strauss has used terms such as “HDHP” (High Deductible Health Plan), “HSA” (Health Savings Account), and “PPO” (Preferred Provider Organization) to describe their health insurance options. Notably, Levi Strauss has also implemented wellness programs focusing on mental health, preventive care, and telemedicine services to enhance employee well-being. The company's healthcare benefits are part of a broader strategy to support employees amid economic uncertainties and evolving tax policies. Recent news highlights Levi Strauss’s continued commitment to adapting its healthcare offerings in response to the current economic and political climate. The company has adjusted its healthcare benefits to address rising costs and changing regulations, ensuring that employees receive adequate support while navigating these challenges. As investment strategies and tax reforms impact the broader economy, Levi Strauss’s proactive approach to healthcare benefits reflects its dedication to maintaining a robust support system for its workforce.