New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Largest Increase Ever From Top Insurers. Will GoDaddy Employees Be Affected?

Healthcare Provider Update: GoDaddy provides health insurance coverage to its U.S.-based employees through comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans. Employees can access preventive care, mental health services, and disability coverage. The company also offers Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), along with generous employer contributions. Family-friendly benefits include paid parental leave, fertility coverage, and adoption assistance. GoDaddy supports wellness through gym discounts, flu shots, and wellness fairs1. Healthcare costs in the United States are projected to continue rising through 2026, with insurers proposing significant premium increases for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. A recent analysis found that ACA insurers are seeking a median premium increase of 15% for 2026, marking the largest hike since 2018. This surge is attributed to factors such as the anticipated expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, rising medical costsincluding expensive medications and increased hospital staysand a shift in the risk pool towards higher-cost enrollees. Without the renewal of enhanced subsidies, out-of-pocket premiums for ACA marketplace enrollees could increase by more than 75% on average Click here to learn more

'With ACA premiums expected to rise in 2026, GoDaddy employees should compare marketplace and employer-related options early, model net costs with and without current subsidies, and coordinate with HR and a qualified tax professional for decisions suited to their situation.' — Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'With ACA marketplace premiums expected to climb in 2026, GoDaddy employees should compare employer and marketplace options early, estimate net costs under both current and lapsed subsidy scenarios, and coordinate with HR and a qualified tax professional to align coverage with their budget.' — Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:
1. The expected premium increases for ACA marketplace plans in 2026 and their potential impact on GoDaddy employees and retirees.
2. The major national insurers and states with the largest requested rate hikes.
3. The primary economic, legislative, and industry factors driving these increases.
In 2026, health insurance rates for plans purchased through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace are expected to surge, with several insurers requesting increases exceeding 60%. ¹ For GoDaddy employees and retirees using ACA coverage, this could mean a substantial rise in health care costs. State insurance filings and industry publications point to higher medical expenses, the potential end of enhanced federal premium subsidies, and significant rate-hike proposals from major insurers as key drivers of the increase.

According to KFF’s analyses, the vast majority of marketplace enrollees receive premium tax credits, and if the enhanced credits expire after 2025, average out-of-pocket premium payments for subsidized enrollees could rise by more than 75% in 2026. ¹ As of January 2025, 24.2 million people selected 2025 marketplace coverage, ² and about 93% of marketplace enrollees rely on premium tax credits. ³ KFF also reports that requested premium increases for 2026 are the largest in years, with most proposals falling between roughly 12% and 27% and a median of 18% across reviewed filings. ⁴

Top 10 States With the Largest Requested Premium Increases for 2026:
- New York: UnitedHealthcare requesting up to +66.4% (individual market).
- Arkansas: QualChoice +54.4% , Ambetter (Celtic) +42.5% , statewide average +36.1% .
- Colorado: Western Slope ~+38.8% ; statewide average +28.4% . Rocky Mountain HMO +36.4% , Cigna +29.4% , Anthem +33.6% , Kaiser +15.3% .
- Florida: Molina ~+41% , Florida Blue +27% , Centene Venture +18.73%
- Maine: Anthem (revised) +24.8% ; statewide weighted average +25.9% .
- Washington: 14 insurers; requested average +21.2% .
- Vermont: BCBS Vermont +23.3% .
- Maryland: Requested statewide average +17.1% (individual market).
- Illinois: BCBS Illinois +27% .
- Texas: BCBS Texas +21% .
Major National Insurers and Their 2026 Requests:
- UnitedHealthcare (UnitedHealth Group): Up to +66.4% in New York.
- Elevance Health (Anthem BCBS): +33.6% in Colorado; +24.8% in Maine.
- Kaiser Permanente: +15.3% in Colorado (individual market).
- Centene Corporation (Ambetter/Celtic): +42.5% in Arkansas; +18.73% in Florida.
- Cigna Healthcare: +29.4% in Colorado.
- Molina Healthcare: ~41% in Florida.
- HCSC (BCBS IL, TX): +27% in Illinois; +21% in Texas.
- GuideWell (Florida Blue): +27% in Florida.
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield: Maryland requested statewide average +17.1% .
- CVS Health/Aetna: Withdrawing ACA marketplace plans in 17 states in 2026, affecting ~1 million members.
Key Factors Driving the Increases:
- Loss of Enhanced Premium Subsidies: The American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act extended ACA subsidies through 2025. Without renewal, subsidized enrollees could see sharp increases in monthly premiums beginning in 2026 (KFF estimates more than a 75% jump in average out-of-pocket premiums for subsidized enrollees if the enhancements lapse). ¹
- Medical Cost Inflation: Leading consultancies report elevated medical cost trends heading into 2026—about 7.5% in the individual market and 8.5% in the group market ⁵ —driven by hospital/physician services and prescription drugs.
- Regulatory Shifts: Market rules and state laws have influenced filings. For example, analysts note federal policy changes (e.g., the Marketplace Integrity rule) as a factor cited in filings, adding operational uncertainty for vertically integrated insurers/PBMs.

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Sources:

1. KFF, Health System Tracker. ' How much and why ACA Marketplace premiums are going up in 2026 ,' by J. Ortaliza, M. McGough, K. Vu, I. Telesford, S. Rakshit, E. Wager, L. Cotter, C. Cox. 6 Aug. 2026.

2. CMS.gov. ' Over 24 Million Consumers Selected Affordable Health Coverage in ACA Marketplace for 2025 .' 17 Jan. 2025.

3. The Commonwealth Fund. ' Proposed Rule Will Make Consumers Pay More for Health Insurance and Care in ACA Marketplaces ,' by Sara Collins. 7 May 2025.

4. Fierce Healthcare. ' KFF Analysis finds a median ACA premium hike of 18% for 2026 ,' by Paige Minemyer. 8 Aug. 2025.

5. PwC Health Research Institute. Medical Cost Trend: Behind the Numbers 2026 . PwC , 16 July 2025, https://www.pwc.com/us/en/industries/health-industries/library/behind-the-numbers.html .

Other reources:

1. New York State Department of Financial Services. “Summary of 2026 Requested Rate Actions.” DFS Portal , 2 June 2025, https://myportal.dfs.ny.gov/web/prior-approval/ind-and-sg-medical/summary-of-2026-requested-rate-actions .

2. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Marketplace Integrity and Affordability (Final Rule). 18 June 2025, PDF, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/cms-9884-f-2025-pi-rule-master-5cr-062025.pdf .

3. Minemyer, Paige. “Aetna to Exit the ACA Exchanges in 2026.” Fierce Healthcare , 1 May 2025, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/aetna-exit-aca-exchanges-2026 .
Pages/Sections referenced: Article body noting ~1 million exchange members and the 2026 exit (single web page; n. pag.).

What is the GoDaddy 401(k) plan?

The GoDaddy 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck on a pre-tax or after-tax basis to help prepare for retirement.

How can I enroll in the GoDaddy 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the GoDaddy 401(k) plan through the company's benefits portal during the open enrollment period or after they become eligible.

Does GoDaddy offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, GoDaddy offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps to enhance retirement savings.

What is the eligibility requirement for the GoDaddy 401(k) plan?

Generally, all full-time employees at GoDaddy are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a certain period of service, as outlined in the plan documents.

Can I change my contribution percentage to the GoDaddy 401(k) plan at any time?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the GoDaddy 401(k) plan at any time through the benefits portal.

What investment options are available in the GoDaddy 401(k) plan?

The GoDaddy 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, index funds, and target-date funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

How often can I review my GoDaddy 401(k) account?

Employees can review their GoDaddy 401(k) account at any time through the online portal, which provides real-time updates on account balances and investment performance.

What happens to my GoDaddy 401(k) plan if I leave the company?

If you leave GoDaddy, you have several options for your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the GoDaddy plan if eligible.

Are there any fees associated with the GoDaddy 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with the GoDaddy 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

Can I take a loan against my GoDaddy 401(k) plan?

Yes, GoDaddy allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Pension Plan Name: GoDaddy does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, the company provides a 401(k) plan. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Not applicable, as GoDaddy does not have a defined benefit pension plan. Pension Formula: Not applicable. Source Document and Page Number: Information not applicable as GoDaddy does not have a traditional pension plan. 401(k) Plan: 401(k) Plan Name: GoDaddy 401(k) Plan. Qualification Criteria: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after 30 days of employment. Employees must be at least 21 years old to enroll. 401(k) Plan Details: GoDaddy offers a match contribution of up to 4% of an employee's eligible pay. The plan also includes a range of investment options and automatic enrollment.

GoDaddy announced a significant restructuring plan in early 2024. The company revealed that it would be reducing its workforce by approximately 10% to streamline operations and improve efficiency. This decision was influenced by the need to adapt to the shifting economic landscape, including evolving tax policies and investment challenges. Given the current political environment, such restructuring news is crucial for stakeholders as it reflects broader trends in corporate adjustments to economic pressures. In addition to layoffs, GoDaddy has made changes to its employee benefits package. The company has reduced some healthcare benefits and adjusted its 401(k) matching contributions. These changes come in response to rising operational costs and a need to align expenses with revenue. The modification in benefits and retirement plans is significant as it highlights how companies are adjusting their compensation structures amidst fluctuating economic conditions and potential future tax impacts.

GoDaddy provides stock options and RSUs as part of its compensation package. GoDaddy grants these equity incentives to employees based on their role and performance. GoDaddy generally issues these as part of long-term incentive plans to attract and retain talent.

Company Website: GoDaddy’s official site for health benefits and employee resources. Annual Reports: Look into GoDaddy’s annual reports or financial disclosures that might include information on employee benefits. HR or Benefits Sites: Websites like Glassdoor or Indeed for employee reviews and insights on benefits. News Outlets: Reliable business news sources for any recent changes or updates to their health benefits. Industry Reports: Publications or industry reports that might detail benefits practices and comparisons. 1. GoDaddy Official Website Health Insurance: GoDaddy offers comprehensive health insurance plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. The company typically covers a significant portion of the premiums for employees. Wellness Programs: Includes mental health support, fitness programs, and wellness stipends. Acronyms: HSA (Health Savings Account), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), EAP (Employee Assistance Program). 2. Glassdoor Reviews: Employees have reported positive experiences with GoDaddy’s health benefits, highlighting the company's support for mental health and work-life balance. There is also appreciation for the variety of plan options available. Benefits: Includes medical, dental, and vision insurance. Some employees mention additional perks like gym memberships and wellness incentives. 3. Indeed Insights: GoDaddy provides a range of health benefits including medical insurance with several plan options. Employees note that GoDaddy also offers a competitive benefits package compared to industry standards. Updates: Any recent changes or updates might be reflected in employee reviews or company announcements on this site. 4. Business News Outlets Recent Changes: There have been no major public announcements regarding changes to GoDaddy’s health benefits in 2023 or 2024. However, companies often update benefits annually, so recent changes might be more subtle or internal. 5. Industry Reports Comparisons: GoDaddy’s benefits are competitive within the tech industry. They are known for offering robust health benefits as part of their overall employee value proposition. Recent Employee Healthcare News: 2023: GoDaddy expanded its telehealth services, making it easier for employees to access medical consultations remotely. 2024: The company introduced a new wellness program that includes virtual mental health counseling and increased stipends for fitness-related expenses.