Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) Explained

If you have built up company securities within your employer-sponsored retirement plan, you may find yourself with a range of choices when the time comes to take a distribution. If those securities have experienced appreciation, it's worth considering the potential benefits of utilizing the net unrealized appreciation (NUA) tax treatment.

Remember, this article is for informational purposes only and is not a replacement for real-life advice. Make sure to consult your tax professional to get more detailed information on any company stocks you may own and how unrealized appreciation may be used.

What is the Net Unrealized Appreciation Rule?

Net unrealized appreciation is actually a pretty simple concept, but the execution can be difficult to understand. If you choose to invest in your company's stock and the stock increases in value over time, the difference between the original cost basis (the price at which the stock was purchased) and the current market value of the stock is the NUA.¹

For example, if you were issued employer stock at $20 per share and it is now worth $50 per share, you would have an NUA of $30 per share ($50 - $20 = $30).¹

To qualify for the tax treatment associated with NUA, the distribution must meet the criteria for a lump-sum distribution.¹

• Within one taxable year of the recipient;
• Has to be in the person's account at the time of the transaction;
• From a qualified pension, profit-sharing or stock-bonus plan, which becomes payable to the recipient
  • on account of the employee’s death;
  • after the employee reaches age 59½;
  • on account of the employee's separation from service, or;
  • after a self-employed individual has become disabled.

Downsides of NUA

The NUA strategy may not always be the best choice. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Concentration risk: You may already have employer stock through other forms of equity compensation. Adding more to your portfolio may not be appropriate, despite tax considerations.
2. Tax implications: Taxes should always be considered when making financial decisions, but they shouldn't be the only factor. Tax laws can change, so consider working with a tax professional who can keep you up to date with the new rules.^2,3
3. No step-up in basis on NUA portion at death: When certain assets are inherited, they receive a step-up in basis to the market value on the date of death. However, when NUA is inherited, it does not receive a step-up in basis.

1. Ameriprise.com, April 2023
2. Forbes.com, September 8, 2021
3. Kiplinger.com, April 26, 2022

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. 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. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Related Content

An Arm and a Leg

A visit to the hospital can be painful, for both your body and your wallet. Don’t let it be more painful than it has to be.

Six Surprising Facts About Retirement Confidence

This attention-grabbing infographic covers retirement topics you may not have considered.

Deciding When to Take Social Security

One of the most common questions people ask about Social Security is when they should start taking benefits.