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Retiring Early from Delek US Holdings? Major Increases to 2026 ACA Premiums Projected in Several States

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Healthcare Provider Update: Delek provides medical, dental, vision, HSAs, FSAs, and wellness rebates, plus fertility and telemedicine benefits 9. As ACA costs rise, Deleks wellness incentives and employer contributions may help employees offset higher out-of-pocket expenses Click here to learn more

'With 2026 ACA premiums set to rise, Delek US Holdings employees approaching early retirement should integrate health care cost projections into their broader income planning to help maintain long-term financial stability.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Given the anticipated ACA premium hikes in 2026, Delek US Holdings employees considering early retirement should evaluate how health care expenses fit within their retirement budget to support a sustainable financial plan.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

  1. The proposed2026 ACA premium increases and the states facing the steepest hikes.

  2. Key economic and policy factors influencingthese premium changes.

  3. Strategies retirees can use to help manage rising health care costs before Medicare eligibility.

Following recent changes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), millions of Americans covered by ACA marketplace insurance may be set to see a sharp rise in their annual premiums. Preliminary estimates place the median national increase at 18%, 1  with many states anticipated to exceed this level. Early filings cite the planned expiration of enhanced subsidies, ongoing medical inflation, the rising cost of specialty drugs, and broad policy and market pressures as contributors to premium jumps that could increase by as much as 30% in certain areas. 2

States With the Biggest Increases Under Consideration

While changes vary by insurer and plan, early filings identify five states with some of the steepest expected increases:

  • Projected  →  Anticipated  increase of about 24%. UnitedHealthcare, for example, requested a 66.4% increase for specific ACA policies.

  • Colorado: Insurers report statewide average increases in the high teens to 20% range, with some geographic areas facing hikes above 33%.

  • Illinois: Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Illinois has filed for an almost 27% increase for 2026, placing the state among those with the highest expected rate changes.

  • Rhode Island: Rate-review report shows a weighted average request in the low to high 20% range, depending on carrier.

  • Washington: Fourteen individual-market insurers requested an average statewide increase of 21.2% for 2026.

Final approved rates will be determined later in the year following each state’s review process. However, the data so far indicates 2026 will be challenging for those on ACA coverage before Medicare eligibility. Nationwide, most planned increases fall between 12% and 27%, with many topping 20%.

Factors Contributing to the 2026 Increase

Several converging factors are influencing these rate hikes:

  • 1. Expiration of Enhanced ACA Premium Subsidies: Without new legislation, temporary premium tax credits will end in 2026, raising monthly costs and potentially reducing enrollment among healthier individuals—worsening risk pools and pushing rates up.

  • 2. Medical Inflation and Provider Pricing: Hospitals and health care providers are negotiating higher reimbursement rates to offset increased labor, supply, and inflationary costs.

  • 3. High-Cost Pharmaceuticals: Specialty drugs, including GLP‑1 therapies for diabetes and weight management, are driving higher payouts, with expenses being pushed back to consumers.

  • 4. Supply Chain Costs and Tariffs: Delays and tariffs on health care equipment and imports are contributing to insurers’ cost forecasts.

  • 5. Risk Pool Deterioration: Rising rates may cause healthier enrollees to exit the market, raising the average cost for those remaining.

Ways to Manage Rising ACA Premium Costs

Financial planning professionals, including Brent Wolf and Paul Bergeron of Wealth Enhancement, note that proactive, tax-aware strategies can help Delek US Holdings retirees mitigate these increases:

  • Adjust Retirement Timing: Delaying retirement until closer to Medicare eligibility could reduce years of elevated ACA coverage costs.

  • Manage Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI): Strategic Roth conversions or income‑efficient withdrawals can help preserve eligibility for premium support.

  • Contribute to a Health Savings Account (HSA): Full HSA funding offers pre‑tax contributions, tax‑deferred growth, and tax‑free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses.

  • Compare Plans During Open Enrollment: Reviewing network access, cost-sharing, and prescription coverage across carriers can help identify more budget‑friendly options.

  • Evaluate COBRA vs. ACA Coverage: Depending on age, health needs, and location, COBRA continuation may be cost effective for a limited time after leaving employer coverage.

  • Use Special Enrollment Periods: Income or household changes may qualify enrollees for updated subsidies.

Particular Considerations in New York

New York’s ACA marketplace offers one of the most diverse plan selections nationwide, and rate requests vary widely. The Department of Financial Services releases carrier-level tables showing proposed changes. Significant hikes from carriers like United Healthcare and Oxford have attracted attention; 3  final approvals will be announced later this summer.

Looking Ahead

While rate increase reports remain preliminary, it appears that ACA enrollees may face substantial premium increases in 2026. For some households, rate hikes of 20–30% could mean hundreds more per month. For Fortune 500 employees considering retiring early, incorporating health care costs into broader tax and income planning will be vital.

According to Avalere Health and AARP’s Public Policy Institute, nearly five million adults aged 50–64 may experience average annual premium increases exceeding $4,000 if enhanced ACA subsidies lapse, and some could lose eligibility altogether. 4

With national rates expected to go up by a median of 18%—and more in specific states—retirees will need to adopt targeted planning. Thoughtful plan comparison, HSA contributions, and income management can offer some relief ahead of Medicare eligibility.

Retiring early before Medicare can be likened to setting sail toward an approaching storm. In 2026, the winds of expiring subsidies, medical inflation, and costly new treatments could make for turbulent conditions. By adjusting income strategies, funding HSAs, and choosing plans carefully, retirees may navigate these waters much like a seasoned captain charts a steady course through rough seas.

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What type of retirement plan does Delek US Holdings offer to its employees?

Delek US Holdings offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can employees of Delek US Holdings enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of Delek US Holdings can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Delek US Holdings match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Delek US Holdings provides a matching contribution to employee contributions made to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Delek US Holdings?

The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Delek US Holdings follows the IRS guidelines, which can change annually. Employees should check the current limits each year.

Can employees of Delek US Holdings take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Delek US Holdings allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan’s terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in the Delek US Holdings 401(k) plan?

The 401(k) plan at Delek US Holdings offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the Delek US Holdings 401(k) plan?

Employees of Delek US Holdings can change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan on a quarterly basis, or as specified in the plan documents.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Delek US Holdings 401(k) plan?

Yes, Delek US Holdings has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which determines how much of the matched contributions employees are entitled to based on their length of service.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Delek US Holdings?

If an employee leaves Delek US Holdings, they have several options for their 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.

Can employees of Delek US Holdings access their 401(k) funds while still employed?

Employees of Delek US Holdings may be able to access their 401(k) funds through hardship withdrawals, depending on the circumstances and the plan’s rules.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Delek US Holdings offers a 401(k) plan for its employees with several features aimed at enhancing retirement savings. Employees are eligible for the company 401(k) plan, which allows them to make pre-tax contributions from their salary. The contribution limits follow the IRS guidelines, which increased to $22,500 for 2023 and $23,000 for 2024. Delek provides a matching contribution up to a specific percentage, although details on the precise matching percentage for 2022-2024 were not readily available. Their 401(k) plan is known to include options for traditional and Roth 401(k) contributions, giving employees flexibility in how they save for retirement. Employees are typically eligible for this plan from the start of employment​ (SEC.gov)​ (SEC.gov). For pensions, Delek US Holdings does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan to all employees but focuses on their defined contribution 401(k) plan instead. This structure is more common in modern corporate retirement offerings, especially in the refining and logistics sectors. Their focus is on matching contributions and enhancing the overall retirement package through the 401(k) system​
Delek US Holdings Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Delek US Holdings announced a significant restructuring initiative aimed at streamlining its operations. This move includes a reduction in workforce by approximately 10% across its various divisions. The company stated that these layoffs are part of a broader effort to enhance operational efficiency and align with its strategic goals in a challenging economic environment. Importance: Given the current economic uncertainties, such as fluctuating oil prices and geopolitical tensions, it is crucial for employees and stakeholders to stay informed about these changes. The restructuring could impact job security, benefits, and future company performance, making it essential to monitor how these developments unfold.
Delek US Holdings offers a range of stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) through its long-term incentive plans, primarily focused on motivating key employees and aligning their interests with shareholders. These awards are part of the company’s broader equity incentive plan, which was initially approved in 2017 and updated in 2018. The RSUs and stock options are granted under the Delek US Holdings Equity Incentive Plan and are designed to promote long-term commitment and performance. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, eligible employees received these awards based on their role and performance, with awards vesting over a period of four years. The stock options are tied to the company’s Class A common stock, while performance share units (PSUs) and performance units (PUs) are aligned with total shareholder return (TSR) relative to industry peers.
Health Benefits Overview: Delek US Holdings’ official website provides a broad overview of their benefits package. Key elements often include medical, dental, and vision insurance, health savings accounts (HSAs), flexible spending accounts (FSAs), and wellness programs. Recent Updates: The website may have recent updates about changes in healthcare plans or enhancements in coverage for 2023 or 2024.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Delek US Holdings at 7102 Commerce Way Brentwood, TN 37027; or by calling them at (615) 771-6701.

https://www.thelayoff.com/ https://finance.yahoo.com/ https://www.reuters.com/ http://ww1.jnjbenefits.com/lander https://delekus.com/

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