Thursday, July 31, 2008

Checking Things Twice

Now that everyone has their buyout package, be sure to doublecheck the numbers. If you have already received your pay raise for the year, make sure it's reflected in your offer. There have been problems in the past with things slipping between the cracks. If there is a problem, you should get in touch with Human Resources as soon as possible.

And while numbers are being tossed around, keep in mind that even with the company withholding 25 percent of your total (salary and medical benefits) payout, receiving considerably more than your one year's wages in one year can push you into a higher tax bracket. There is also the matter of Social Security taxes to be considered.

One more thing: The company has said it will not oppose efforts by anyone who takes the buyout to apply for unemployment insurance benefits. The Texas Workforce Commission may or may not be swayed by the DMN's assent. Unemployment benefits, by the way, amount to a post-tax net of $283 per week for 26 weeks. That's a total of $7358.

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