For Expeditors Intl. of Washington employees nearing retirement, navigating the economic landscape is essential for maintaining financial health. The annual Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), a significant factor in this dynamic, is set to increase by 2.5% for the coming year, reflecting more moderate inflation trends compared to recent years.
Understanding the 2025 COLA for Expeditors Intl. of Washington Employees
Originally established in the 1970s to address hyperinflation, the COLA is designed to adjust Social Security benefits in line with cost-of-living increases, offering retirees a measure of stability. This adjustment is linked to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), which saw a 2.2% rise through September 2024, forming the basis for next year’s COLA determination.
While an increase in Social Security benefits is beneficial, it’s important for retirees, including those from Expeditors Intl. of Washington, to understand potential tax implications. Higher Social Security benefits can lead to increased combined income, which may affect taxes due to the inclusion of wages, interest, dividends, and distributions from retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs.
For example, a retiree receiving $24,000 in Social Security benefits while drawing $37,667 from an IRA might face higher tax obligations if inflation requires increased withdrawals. This could raise the taxable portion of their Social Security benefits, thus elevating their overall tax liability.
Tax Management Strategies for Expeditors Intl. of Washington Retirees
To manage potential tax increases, Expeditors Intl. of Washington retirees may consider several strategies:
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Diversifying Income Sources : Using brokerage accounts can help control how Social Security benefits are taxed, as capital gains may contribute to provisional income, but the principal does not.
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Strategic Withdrawals : Managing withdrawals from traditional 401(k)s or IRAs is essential, as these are taxed as ordinary income. Complying with required minimum distributions is also crucial to prevent penalties.
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Utilizing Tax-Advantaged Accounts : Withdrawals from Roth IRAs or Roth 401(k)s, and contributions to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), are exempt from federal taxes and do not impact Social Security taxes. https://www.irs.gov/
Timing Social Security Benefits Wisely
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Selecting the right time to begin collecting Social Security benefits is a critical decision. Starting benefits early may seem appealing, especially with an increased COLA, but it usually results in lower lifetime earnings. A more measured approach for Expeditors Intl. of Washington employees could involve waiting until the Full Retirement Age (FRA) of 67 or even delaying until age 70, allowing benefits to increase by 8% annually after FRA.
Long-Term Planning for Expeditors Intl. of Washington Retirees
Long-term tax planning is valuable for navigating retirement successfully. This approach includes multi-year strategies that can potentially reduce overall tax burdens. For comprehensive planning, it’s beneficial for Expeditors Intl. of Washington retirees to consult with a tax advisor who can handle the intricacies of tax management effectively and align strategies with their financial and retirement goals.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the implications of the Social Security COLA is essential for Expeditors Intl. of Washington retirees facing the challenges of inflation and tax planning. By adopting a careful financial strategy and seeking professional advice, retirees can enhance their financial foundation. Proactive financial management is key to building a stable and fulfilling retirement.
Additionally, Expeditors Intl. of Washington retirees should note the Senior Citizens' Freedom to Work Act of 2000 , which removes the earnings test for Social Security recipients who have reached or exceeded their full retirement age. This change allows retirees who continue working while receiving benefits to do so without a reduction in benefits, regardless of their earnings. This policy can significantly increase income flexibility for retirees who choose to remain active in the workforce.
What type of retirement savings plan does Expeditors Intl. of Washington offer to its employees?
Expeditors Intl. of Washington offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.
How can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?
Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington by completing the enrollment form available through the HR portal.
Does Expeditors Intl. of Washington match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Expeditors Intl. of Washington provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) contributions, subject to certain limits.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?
The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington follows the IRS guidelines, which are updated annually.
Can I change my contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?
Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage at any time through the HR portal or by contacting HR at Expeditors Intl. of Washington.
When can I start withdrawing from my 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?
Employees can typically start withdrawing from their 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington after reaching the age of 59½, subject to plan rules.
Are there any penalties for early withdrawal from the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?
Yes, early withdrawals from the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington may incur penalties and taxes, as per IRS regulations.
What investment options are available in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?
The 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds.
How often can I change my investment options in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?
Employees can change their investment options in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington as often as they wish, typically with no restrictions on frequency.
Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the 401(k) plan at Expeditors Intl. of Washington?
Yes, Expeditors Intl. of Washington has a vesting schedule for employer matching contributions, which employees should review in the plan documents.