Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for DuPont: DuPont partners with various healthcare providers, primarily offering health insurance through Aetna, a part of the CVS Health Corporation. Aetna provides access to a broad network of care and health services, covering DuPont's workforce under various employee benefits programs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As 2026 approaches, DuPont's employees may face substantial healthcare cost increases due to anticipated spikes in ACA marketplace premiums, which are projected to rise sharply-some states reporting hikes exceeding 60%. Contributing factors include the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies and ongoing medical cost inflation driven by higher labor and treatment expenses. This situation could lead to out-of-pocket costs skyrocketing for many employees, making it essential for individuals to strategize their healthcare choices in 2025 to mitigate financial impacts in the coming year. Click here to learn more
'With 2026 ACA premiums set to rise, DuPont 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, DuPont 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:
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The proposed2026 ACA premium increases and the states facing the steepest hikes.
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Key economic and policy factors influencingthese premium changes.
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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:
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Projected → Anticipated increase of about 24%. UnitedHealthcare, for example, requested a 66.4% increase for specific ACA policies.
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Colorado: Insurers report statewide average increases in the high teens to 20% range, with some geographic areas facing hikes above 33%.
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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.
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Rhode Island: Rate-review report shows a weighted average request in the low to high 20% range, depending on carrier.
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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:
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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.
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2. Medical Inflation and Provider Pricing: Hospitals and health care providers are negotiating higher reimbursement rates to offset increased labor, supply, and inflationary costs.
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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.
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4. Supply Chain Costs and Tariffs: Delays and tariffs on health care equipment and imports are contributing to insurers’ cost forecasts.
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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 DuPont retirees mitigate these increases:
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Adjust Retirement Timing: Delaying retirement until closer to Medicare eligibility could reduce years of elevated ACA coverage costs.
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Manage Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI): Strategic Roth conversions or income‑efficient withdrawals can help preserve eligibility for premium support.
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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.
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Compare Plans During Open Enrollment: Reviewing network access, cost-sharing, and prescription coverage across carriers can help identify more budget‑friendly options.
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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.
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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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- Medicare Open Enrollment for Corporate Employees: Cost Changes in 2024!
- Stages of Retirement for Corporate Employees
- 7 Things to Consider Before Leaving Your Company
- How Are Workers Impacted by Inflation & Rising Interest Rates?
- Lump-Sum vs Annuity and Rising Interest Rates
- Internal Revenue Code Section 409A (Governing Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans)
- Corporate Employees: Do NOT Believe These 6 Retirement Myths!
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Sources:
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1. KFF. ' 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. 2025.
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2. Fierce Healthcare. ' KFF analysis finds a median ACA premium hike of 18% for 2026 ,' by Paige Minemyer. 8 Aug. 2025.
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3. ACASignups.net. ' 2026 Rate Changes - New York: +13.2% Avg ,' New York Department of Financial Services. 2 June 2025.
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4. AARP. ' Expiring Tax Credit Threatens Affordable Health Coverage for Midlife Adults ,' by Jan Sung and Olivia Dean. 4 April 2025.
What are the options available for retirement plans at the company, DuPont, and how do these options cater to different employee needs when it comes to financial security in retirement? Additionally, can you discuss any recent updates to DuPont's retirement benefits that align with current IRS regulations for 2024?
Retirement Plan Options at DuPont: DuPont offers a variety of retirement plans, including a defined benefit pension plan and a 401(k) plan with company match, to cater to different employee needs. These options allow employees to select plans that align with their long-term financial security goals. Recent updates to DuPont's retirement benefits ensure compliance with IRS regulations for 2024, such as the updated contribution limits for 401(k) accounts.
How does the performance of DuPont's pension fund affect the overall pension benefits provided to the employees? In what ways does DuPont ensure transparency and proper communication regarding the management of these funds to its employees as they approach retirement?
Pension Fund Performance Impact: The performance of DuPont's pension fund significantly impacts the pension benefits employees receive. DuPont manages the fund with a focus on long-term stability and provides regular updates to employees regarding fund performance and any changes in benefits as they approach retirement. The company ensures transparency through annual reports and meetings, allowing employees to stay informed.
What are the implications of a change in control for DuPont employees, particularly regarding pension and retirement benefits? How does the company define "Change in Control," and what mechanisms are in place to protect employee interests during such transitions?
Change in Control Implications: In the event of a "Change in Control," DuPont defines this as any significant corporate event such as mergers or acquisitions that results in new ownership or management. The company has mechanisms in place to protect employee pension and retirement benefits, ensuring that accrued benefits remain secure, even during such transitions(DuPont_2020_Proxy_State…).
Can you outline how DuPont compares its compensation and retirement benefits packages against industry standards? What peer benchmarking processes does DuPont utilize, and how do these comparisons inform changes to employee benefits for retirement?
Benchmarking Compensation and Benefits: DuPont regularly compares its compensation and retirement benefits against industry standards through a peer benchmarking process. This process involves analyzing data from similar companies to ensure competitiveness, which helps inform any necessary adjustments to maintain employee satisfaction and retention.
How does DuPont support employees who are considering transitioning into retirement? Discuss specific programs or resources that DuPont has established to aid employees in preparing for their retirement both financially and personally.
Support for Retirement Transition: DuPont provides several resources to assist employees transitioning into retirement. These include financial counseling, workshops on retirement planning, and access to retirement account management tools. The company also offers programs aimed at helping employees prepare emotionally and financially for life after work.
What ongoing education or resources does DuPont offer its employees regarding retirement planning, particularly in regard to understanding the different types of retirement savings accounts, including those that comply with IRS regulations for retirement savings in 2024?
Ongoing Retirement Education: DuPont offers ongoing education to help employees understand the different types of retirement savings accounts available, including those that comply with IRS regulations for 2024. This includes workshops, online resources, and personalized financial planning sessions to ensure employees are well-informed about their retirement options.
How does the company address the needs of employees who may wish to retire early versus those aiming for traditional retirement ages? Discuss specific policies that DuPont has in place to accommodate different retirement timelines while ensuring fairness and accessibility of benefits.
Early vs. Traditional Retirement: DuPont accommodates employees seeking early retirement by offering phased retirement options and ensuring that pension and 401(k) benefits remain accessible. For those retiring at traditional ages, DuPont's policies ensure a seamless transition, with flexibility built into the benefits structure to support different timelines.
What role does the employee's individual retirement account (IRA) play in conjunction with DuPont’s offered retirement plans? Can you explain how DuPont encourages employees to utilize IRAs in their overall retirement savings strategy and the potential tax advantages for 2024?
IRAs and DuPont Retirement Plans: DuPont encourages employees to integrate individual retirement accounts (IRAs) into their overall retirement strategy. By doing so, employees can take advantage of additional tax benefits, such as deferred taxes on contributions in 2024, while complementing their company-sponsored retirement plans(DuPont_2020_Proxy_State…).
How does DuPont handle the integration of new benefits, particularly those related to retirement and pensions, following mergers or acquisitions? What procedures are in place to ensure a seamless transition that retains employee benefits?
Mergers and Acquisitions Impact on Benefits: During mergers or acquisitions, DuPont follows a structured approach to integrating new benefits, particularly regarding pensions and retirement plans. The company ensures that employees’ existing benefits are preserved and provides clear communication to address concerns about any changes.
How can DuPont employees reach out to the Human Resources department for more information regarding their retirement benefits? Specifically, what channels are available, and what can employees expect in terms of support and guidance during their retirement planning process?
Reaching HR for Retirement Information: DuPont employees can reach out to Human Resources through several channels, including a dedicated retirement benefits hotline, email support, and in-person consultations. HR provides personalized guidance and helps employees navigate the various stages of retirement planning with access to relevant tools and resources.