Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA): A Tax Opportunity Hidden Inside Some Retirement Plans
Many employees accumulate company stock inside their retirement plans over the course of their careers. When retirement approaches, that stock may qualify for a little-known tax treatment called Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA).
When handled correctly, NUA can significantly reduce the tax burden associated with distributing company stock from a retirement plan. When handled incorrectly, the opportunity disappears and the entire distribution may become taxable as ordinary income.
Understanding the mechanics of NUA is therefore important before taking any action with employer stock held inside a retirement account.