Healthcare Provider Update: FTI Consulting provides its U.S. employees with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage. Employees can also access Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), life and disability insurance, and mental health support. Additional perks include paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and a 401(k) plan with matching contributions 2. Healthcare costs in the United States are projected to continue rising through 2026, with insurers proposing significant premium increases for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. A recent analysis found that ACA insurers are seeking a median premium increase of 15% for 2026, marking the largest hike since 2018. This surge is attributed to factors such as the anticipated expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, rising medical costsincluding expensive medications and increased hospital staysand a shift in the risk pool towards higher-cost enrollees. Without the renewal of enhanced subsidies, out-of-pocket premiums for ACA marketplace enrollees could increase by more than 75% on average. Click here to learn more
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has finalized rules that significantly impact FTI Consulting employees who are heirs of retirement accounts, mandating minimum annual withdrawals from inherited IRAs and 401(k)s. This development represents a considerable shift from previous guidelines which permitted many non-spousal beneficiaries to spread out the distribution of inherited retirement funds throughout their lifetimes, optimizing growth through extended investment periods. These new rules, introduced under the 2019 Secure Act, now require many heirs to deplete these accounts within a ten-year timeframe.
Before this rule change, beneficiaries enjoyed the flexibility to plan withdrawals to their financial benefit, potentially postponing distributions to the last year of the allowed period. However, under the new IRS guidelines, interpreting Congressional intent aims to prevent the wealthy from indefinitely deferring taxes on inherited retirement wealth. This requirement now applies to all future inheritances and those received since 2020, impacting many within FTI Consulting.
The revised IRS stance excludes spouses, who are subject to a different set of rules.
The legislative shift reflects broader trends where Congress seeks to increase revenue through stricter management of retirement funds. These changes underscore the importance for FTI Consulting's workforce to continually adapt to new financial landscapes.
One area of confusion has been the timing and amounts of mandatory withdrawals, leading to widespread noncompliance. Recognizing this, the IRS has shown leniency, waiving penalties for missed distributions until 2024. From 2025, annual withdrawals must conform to life expectancy calculations, significantly impacting tax liabilities for heirs.
Tax professionals recommend that FTI Consulting employees inheriting retirement funds consider their future income prospects when planning withdrawals. Deferring larger distributions until later in the ten-year window could be advantageous, minimizing tax burdens if a reduction in income is anticipated.
The changes also affect heirs of multiple IRAs, each subject to varying rules based on the account type and the date of the original holder's death. Notably, Roth IRAs offer strategic benefits as distributions are not required until the final year and are tax-free upon withdrawal.
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Moreover, certain beneficiaries, including chronically ill individuals, must take annual distributions based on their life expectancies, irrespective of the 2019 changes. Those inheriting IRAs before these updates must adhere to older guidelines, planning withdrawals over their expected lifetimes.
For FTI Consulting employees navigating these complex regulations, engaging with tax professionals for strategic financial planning is crucial. Understanding and managing the layered regulations of both old and new IRA rules is essential to maximizing the financial outcomes of inherited retirement accounts while ensuring compliance with the legal requirements.
In conclusion, the recent IRS regulations emphasize a move towards stricter oversight of inherited retirement account distributions. Beneficiaries, including those from FTI Consulting, must navigate a stricter framework that demands vigilance and strategic financial planning to optimize their outcomes. Staying informed and consulting with financial experts is vital for managing inherited retirement wealth effectively.
What is the 401(k) plan offered by FTI Consulting?
The 401(k) plan at FTI Consulting is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis, which can help reduce their taxable income.
How can employees enroll in FTI Consulting's 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in FTI Consulting's 401(k) plan by accessing the benefits portal or contacting the HR department for guidance on the enrollment process.
Does FTI Consulting match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, FTI Consulting offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.
What is the maximum contribution limit for FTI Consulting's 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for FTI Consulting's 401(k) plan is determined by the IRS guidelines, which can change annually. Employees should check the latest limits for the current year.
When can employees start contributing to FTI Consulting's 401(k) plan?
Employees at FTI Consulting can typically start contributing to the 401(k) plan after completing a specified waiting period, which is outlined in the plan documents.
What investment options are available in FTI Consulting's 401(k) plan?
FTI Consulting's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.
Can employees take loans against their 401(k) accounts at FTI Consulting?
Yes, FTI Consulting allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) accounts, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
What happens to an employee's 401(k) account if they leave FTI Consulting?
If an employee leaves FTI Consulting, they have several options for their 401(k) account, including rolling it over to a new employer's plan, an IRA, or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts in FTI Consulting's 401(k) plan?
Employees at FTI Consulting can change their contribution amounts at designated times throughout the year, as specified in the plan guidelines.
Is there a vesting schedule for FTI Consulting's 401(k) matching contributions?
Yes, FTI Consulting has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which determines how much of the employer's contributions an employee is entitled to based on their length of service.