The Idaho Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) of Franklin Savings Bank is a comprehensive retirement plan designed to provide employee-owners with a stake in the bank's success and long-term financial security. With its numerous benefits and features, this ESOP is an integral part of Franklin Savings Bank's commitment to its employees. At Franklin Savings Bank, the Idaho ESOP offers employees the opportunity to become owners of the bank through the acquisition of company stock. As a result, employees can directly benefit from the bank's performance, as the value of their shares is tied to the bank's overall success. The Idaho ESOP operates as a qualified retirement savings plan. It functions as a defined contribution plan, where eligible employees can contribute a portion of their salary to purchase company stock. These contributions are made on a pre-tax basis, allowing employees to save for retirement while reducing their taxable income. One key advantage of the Idaho ESOP is that it allows employees to build wealth gradually over time. As they accumulate company stock, the value of their investment can increase, resulting in potential capital gains. Additionally, employees can diversify their portfolios by investing in a mix of other retirement plan options offered by Franklin Savings Bank. The Idaho ESOP also encourages employee-owners to remain with Franklin Savings Bank in the long term. Through its vesting schedule, employees gradually gain ownership rights to their ESOP shares over a specific period of time. This acts as an incentive for employees to stay committed to the bank, leading to increased loyalty and dedication. Different types of the Idaho ESOP at Franklin Savings Bank may include: 1. Traditional ESOP: This type of ESOP allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary to purchase company stock, providing a direct stake in the bank's success. 2. Leveraged ESOP: In this type, the ESOP borrows funds to acquire company stock, allowing employees to own a stake in the bank without upfront personal contributions. 3. Non-Leveraged ESOP: This type of ESOP does not involve borrowing funds to acquire company stock. Instead, employees make direct contributions to purchase shares. 4. Hybrid ESOP: This encompasses a combination of both traditional and leveraged ESOP structures, providing employees with flexibility in investing and ownership. In conclusion, the Idaho Employee Stock Ownership Plan of Franklin Savings Bank is a valuable employee benefit program, enhancing retirement savings and encouraging long-term commitment. With various types of ESOP structures available, Franklin Savings Bank offers its employees the opportunity to become true owners, sharing in the bank's future success.