Mercury General Employees: Does Your Child Need to File an Income Tax Return?

As a parent working at Mercury General, we encourage our children to work, so they can learn important values about work and independence. At what point, if at all, do children need to file an income tax return for the money they earn?

The IRS does not exempt anyone from the requirement to file a tax return based on age, even if your child is declared as a dependent on your tax return.

Your dependent children must file a tax return when they earn above a certain amount of income.

Dependent children with earned income in excess of $12,550 must file an income tax return. Dependent children with unearned income of more than $1,100 must also file a return. And if the dependent child's earned and unearned income together total more than the larger of $1,100, or a total earned income up to $12,200 plus $350.

These thresholds are subject to change, so please consult a professional with tax expertise regarding your individual situation.

Here's an example. Kyle is a 20-year-old college student who's claimed as a dependent by his parents. He received $400 in unearned income and $5,500 for a part-time job on campus. He does not have to file a tax return because both his unearned and earned income fall below the thresholds. Kyle's total income of $5,900 is less than his total earned income plus $350.

Even if your child earns less than the threshold amount, filing a tax return may be worthwhile if your child is eligible for a tax refund.

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If you decide to prepare a separate return for your child, the same reduced standard deduction rules detailed above will apply.

The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties.

IRS.gov, 2022

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Pension Plan Name: Mercury General does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. The company primarily focuses on offering a 401(k) plan to its employees. 401(k) Plan Name: Mercury General Corporation 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the Mercury General Corporation 401(k) Plan after completing 30 days of service. The plan is available to full-time employees. Company Match: Mercury General provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, though specifics about the match percentage may vary based on the company’s policies and plan documents.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Mercury General announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This move was driven by the need to adapt to changing market conditions and the economic environment. The restructuring included layoffs in several departments, with a focus on reducing operational costs and reallocating resources to more strategic areas. The company's management emphasized that these changes were necessary to enhance competitiveness and long-term sustainability. The impact of these layoffs on employees and the broader organizational structure is a key concern amid current economic uncertainties.

Description: Mercury General's 2022 annual report details the stock options and RSUs offered to employees. Stock options are generally available to executives and key employees, while RSUs may be granted to a broader range of employees based on performance.

Benefits Overview: Offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They provide health savings accounts (HSAs), flexible spending accounts (FSAs), and wellness programs. Medical Plans: Includes PPO and HMO plans. Employees can choose between different levels of coverage based on their needs. Wellness Programs: Includes access to fitness resources, mental health support, and preventive care programs.