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HP Employees: Navigate Tax Season Like a Pro

'HP employees must recognize the value of proactive tax planning, as strategic contributions to retirement accounts and thorough verification of deductions can significantly reduce tax liabilities and improve long-term financial outcomes.' – Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'HP employees should leverage tax season as an opportunity to refine their financial strategies by maximizing contributions to retirement accounts, utilizing available tax credits, and staying ahead of state tax changes to ensure a more favorable financial outlook.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

How to optimize your retirement and health-related contributions before the tax deadline.
Navigating state tax rules amid the rise of remote work.
Leveraging key tax credits and deductions to help reduce your liability.

HP employees should be especially careful with their tax returns before filing them with the Internal Revenue Service this tax season. Last year, about USD 3,138 per filer got refunds on average, IRS data showed. This concludes their IRS dealings for most, unless more information is requested. Remember the IRS sends written correspondence to prevent common frauds.

Optimizing Contributions

Test whether you've contributed to your Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Roth IRAs, and Traditional IRAs by the federal tax deadline of April 15, 2025 for the 2024 tax year. This includes requests for extensions, though different deadlines may apply to those affected by federal disaster declarations like the California wildfires. The IRS website should be updated regularly.

Independent contractors can contribute to a Simplified Employee Pension plan (SEP IRA) through the business tax reporting deadline. Some choose to invest the expected tax refunds in these contributions to avoid stagnation of funds.

State Tax Compliance

The rise of remote work has increased state tax liabilities - especially for workers from states different from their employer's location. Learn about the often complex state tax laws.

Leveraging Tax Credits

Tax credits like the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit lower your tax liability directly. Also, education-related credits like the American Opportunity Tax Credit and Lifetime Learning Credit might help with higher education costs. Eligibility for these benefits must be verified.

Income and Deductions Verification

HP employees should investigate all income sources and potential deductions. That includes paying for taxable unemployment benefits and getting all 1099 forms. Some tax obligations may be easier to with inflation adjustments to and a higher standard deduction in 2024.

State and local taxes, medical costs, mortgage interest, and charitable contributions are big deductions. Those itemizing deductions must be compared with the standard deduction. The home office deduction is still available for self-employed individuals under certain conditions.

Strategic Planning & Filing Extensions.

File for an extension if necessary by April 15 to extend your filing deadline to October 15. Remember this extension does not apply to tax payments due - which must be paid by the original deadline or to face penalties.

File early to limit identity theft risks and expedite refunds - and plan for next year. Use your tax return for planning - make informed decisions about state residency and tax withholding adjustments.

The tax maze requires proactive planning to improve your financial condition and minimize tax liabilities. Using contributions fully, understanding state tax consequences, claiming available tax credits, confirming all income and deductions and planning your filing time can improve your financial picture. Talking to a tax professional can give you tailored advice on your financial plans.

Those approaching or in retirement should know how Social Security income is taxed. Up to 85% of your Social Security benefits could be taxable based on your income. Timing withdrawals from retirement plans or earnings from part-time work affects your tax bracket and Social Security tax rate. Strategic planning can help minimize taxes on these benefits, as described in the IRS's 'Benefits Planner: Planning Your Taxes Now.' The Income Taxes and Your Social Security Benefit

Enjoy tax season with this guide to making informed contributions, understanding state tax compliance, and using tax credits to lower your tax bill. Prepare thoroughly by understanding state taxation, remote work impacts, and timely tax credits. Make sure your various income sources and potential deductions are documented.

Like regular health check-ups , paying taxes helps you stay on top of your finances and within regulations. Contributing to retirement accounts is preventative financial care - it lowers future tax burdens and supports financial health. Like getting personalized health advice at your annual physical, a thorough tax review positions you for the coming fiscal year.

Articles you may find interesting:

Sources:

1. 'IRA Contribution Deadline - Retirement Daily.' TheStreet , 3 Mar. 2025. Entire article. Author: TheStreet Staff.

2. 'State and Local Tax Considerations of Remote Work Arrangements.' National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) , 15 Sept. 2023, pp. 1-10. Author: NCSL Fiscal Affairs Program.

3. 'Tax-Saving Moves You Can Make Before Year-End.' Charles Schwab , 10 Oct. 2024. Entire article.
Author: Hayden Adams.

4. 'Taxes in Retirement: 7 Tax Tips for After You Retire.' TurboTax , 1 Mar. 2025. Entire article.
Author: TurboTax Staff.

5. 'Managing State and Local Tax Implications of Remote Work.' Carr, Riggs & Ingram CPAs and Advisors , 6 Mar. 2025. Entire article. Author: Vicki Bolskar.

How does HP Inc. ensure that the pension plan benefits will remain stable and secure for employees in the future, and what measures are being implemented to mitigate financial volatility associated with these benefits? Employees of HP Inc. should be particularly aware of how the transition of their pension payments to Prudential will affect their financial security and what protections are in place to ensure that these payments are maintained without disruption.

HP Inc. ensures pension plan benefits remain stable and secure by transferring the payment obligations to Prudential, a highly-rated insurance company selected through a careful review by an Independent Fiduciary. This move is aimed at reducing financial volatility associated with HP's pension obligations while maintaining the same benefit amount for retirees. Prudential's established financial stability provides additional security to employees(HP Inc_November 1 2021_…).

What specific details can HP Inc. employees expect to learn in the Welcome Kit from Prudential, and how will these details help them understand their new payment system? HP Inc. pension participants will need to familiarize themselves with the information outlined in the Welcome Kit to make informed decisions regarding their pension benefits going forward.

The Welcome Kit from Prudential will provide HP Inc. employees with instructions to set up an online account, along with details on managing payments, tax withholdings, and other resources. This information will allow employees to familiarize themselves with Prudential’s system and ensure a seamless transition without disruptions(HP Inc_November 1 2021_…).

In what ways does the selection process for Prudential as the insurance provider reflect the commitment of HP Inc. to the well-being of its employees? Understanding the rationale behind this decision will give HP Inc. employees insights into the fiduciary responsibilities and governance processes that protect their retirement benefits.

The selection of Prudential reflects HP Inc.'s commitment to employee well-being, as it involved the Independent Fiduciary conducting an extensive review of insurance providers. Prudential was chosen based on its financial strength and ability to manage pension payments securely, showing HP's focus on protecting retirement benefits(HP Inc_November 1 2021_…).

How will the annuity payments from Prudential differ from the previous pension payments in terms of tax implications and reporting for HP Inc. employees? It is crucial for employees of HP Inc. to comprehend the tax treatment of their new annuity payments to avoid any potential pitfalls in their personal financial planning.

The annuity payments from Prudential will be taxed similarly to the previous pension payments, though employees will receive two separate 1099-R forms for 2021 (one from Fidelity and one from Prudential). For future years, only a single form will be issued. This ensures employees are aware of how to manage tax reporting(HP Inc_November 1 2021_…).

What resources are available to HP Inc. employees seeking assistance regarding their pension benefits, and how can they effectively utilize these resources to address their concerns? Knowing how to access support and guidance will empower HP Inc. employees to manage their retirement benefits proactively.

HP Inc. employees seeking assistance can access live customer support through Fidelity or contact Prudential directly after the transition. Additionally, the Welcome Kit will include important contact information for managing their benefits, making it easy for employees to address concerns(HP Inc_November 1 2021_…).

How can HP Inc. employees verify the financial health and stability of Prudential, and why is this factor important in the context of their pension benefits? Employees must ask how Prudential's financial standing influences their view of long-term pension security and what metrics or ratings they should consider.

HP Inc. employees can verify Prudential’s financial health by reviewing Prudential's annual financial reports, which are publicly available. Prudential’s strong financial ratings were a key factor in its selection, assuring employees of long-term pension security(HP Inc_November 1 2021_…).

What steps should HP Inc. employees take to update their personal information, such as banking details and tax withholding preferences, following the transition to Prudential? Understanding these processes will ensure a smooth continuation of benefits for HP Inc. employees as they adapt to the new system.

Employees do not need to re-submit their personal information to Prudential, as HP will securely transfer all necessary data, including banking and tax withholding preferences. This ensures the continuation of pension payments without the need for employee intervention(HP Inc_November 1 2021_…).

How does HP Inc. plan to address potential changes in the financial landscape that may affect pension benefits, and what role does the insurance contract with Prudential play in this context? HP Inc. employees should be informed about the company's strategic outlook and how it aims to safeguard pension assets against economic uncertainties.

HP Inc. plans to address potential financial changes through its contract with Prudential, which guarantees pension payments will remain the same. Prudential manages these risks as part of its core business, providing added security against economic volatility(HP Inc_November 1 2021_…).

In what circumstances might HP Inc. employees see changes in their net pension payments following the transition to Prudential, despite assurances that payment amounts will remain unchanged? This understanding will help employees manage their expectations regarding future payments and any adjustments they may need to make.

Employees might see changes in their net pension payments due to tax adjustments or changes in withholding instructions, but the gross payment amount will remain unchanged. Any garnishments or other deductions will continue as before, ensuring consistency in payment structure(HP Inc_November 1 2021_…).

How can HP Inc. employees contact the company directly to learn more about the pension transition process, and what channels are available for them to have their questions addressed? Clear communication lines are essential for HP Inc. employees to ensure they receive timely and relevant information regarding their pension situations.

HP Inc. employees can contact the company through the Fidelity support line or directly through Prudential for any questions about the pension transition. The Welcome Kit and other resources will provide contact details, ensuring employees have access to timely support(HP Inc_November 1 2021_…).