blogs / 7 Dec 2023

maximizing cost savings: optimizing supplemental tax rates for low-income earners

At Cartus, we believe in the power of precision, especially when it comes to optimizing tax assistance for low-income earners. Our recent endeavors in recalibrating supplemental tax rates have not only aligned interns’ earnings with appropriate tax brackets but also brought meaningful cost savings for our clients.

It’s intriguing how a seemingly minor adjustment in the supplemental tax rate can yield significant financial benefits. Consider this: many organizations overlook the specific earnings of their interns, defaulting to a higher supplemental rate without recognizing that it will over enrich them with tax assistance. By aligning with the industry standard of 12%, a norm confirmed by our trusted tax advisor INEO, employers can unlock substantial savings without altering existing mobility policies.

Let’s delve into some case studies showcasing the impact of this recalibration:

case study highlights

Client: sports manufacturing industry

  • Previous rate: 22%
  • Optimized rate: 12%
  • Savings: over $300,000

Client: medical supplier industry

  • Previous rate: flat 22%
  • Optimized rate: 12%
  • Savings: exceeded $165,000

Client: food and beverage industry

  • Previous rate: utilizing 22%
  • Optimization: shifting to 12%
  • Estimated savings for 2024: over $110,000

Through collaboration with our tax advisor, INEO, and leveraging substantial resources, we’ve helped clients navigate these complexities with confidence and precision.

ensuring compliance and clarity

Beyond savings, compliance and clarity are paramount. It’s imperative that organizations understand the nuances of taxability and have access to tax mobility experts and comprehensive resources.

At Cartus, the journey toward maximizing cost savings while ensuring compliance is ongoing, and we continue to work to identify additional opportunities for our clients.

Stay tuned for more success stories and insightful cost management strategies from Cartus in the New Year, including two white papers on the topic!

Beth Schaedel

about the author

Beth Schaedel, Director, Global Wage and Compensation, has worked at Cartus for over 25 years, holding various positions in Treasury, Finance and Accounting. She has personal experience in relocation, having moved around the U.S. several times in her career. Beth chairs Cartus’ Internal Employee DEI Council, which focuses on initiatives that raise awareness, educate, inspire, and engage our employees in order to continually adapt, learn, and improve every aspect of our business. She is also the owner of our Emerging Leaders Program focused on the continued development of our future leaders across the globe.