GTN Mobility Tax Blog

This article was originally published in Spiceworks.

Starting in May 2024, the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s new, shorter settlement cycle kicks in—and it could leave businesses scrambling. HR, payroll, tax, and equity teams will have one fewer day to deliver shares and manage the related equity compensation tax implications. Plus, when the settlement window is shortened, it will focus more on the complexity of managing a mobile workforce. 

However, these new settlement cycles could serve as the wake-up call businesses need to jump-start much-needed technology upgrades. Why is the SEC’s rule so important for companies that offer equity compensation, and how can technology protect against tax violations, lost compensation, and burnout in this new environment? 

As businesses look to capitalize on international opportunities and establish a global presence, the question of how to optimize tax planning across multiple jurisdictions becomes paramount.

If we look back to our article that provided three key steps for global expansion success, we shared the actions required to best administer and support a globally mobile workforce. These steps ensure effective tax planning for individuals critical to the global success of the company. A happy, growing workforce begets a healthy culture and a successful business. And companies growing globally also want to ensure happy, growing earnings. So, once the mobile workforce planning is in place, the next critical question arises: How do I ensure effective tax planning for my global business?

Now that the intensity of another US tax busy season has passed, it’s an opportune time to reflect on your mobility program with a post-tax season check-up. Taking time now to review this past busy season will allow you and your mobility tax provider to discover ways to enhance the employee experience, highlight areas of risk and outline necessary actions, and understand any frustrations that occurred so you can strategize future improvements. To guide you through this review, we’ve created a checklist that includes key considerations and tips for a successful post-tax season review. 

In our globalized business landscape, international assignments remain a cornerstone of talent management strategies. And the responsibility for HR and mobility program professionals to orchestrate seamless transitions for employees stepping into roles on foreign soil is pivotal. The success of these endeavors hinges on a multitude of factors, including strategic planning, resource allocation, and policy implementation.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has introduced a new rule that significantly impacts the settlement process for popular equity plans offered to employees, such as stock-settled Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) subject to tax withholding, and stock option/stock appreciation right exercises involving same-day sales. Effective May 28, 2024, the settlement cycle will be shortened from two business days after the transaction date (T+2) to one (T+1).

In today's global economy, business travel is an essential part of the job for many individuals. Employees regularly cross borders to attend conferences, meet clients, explore investments, and more. For employers, managing the tax compliance needs of their business travelers can be complex as each country has unique requirements that must be understood and followed.