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

8 smart habits Middleby employees can adopt to help boost credit scores

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Middleby Middleby Corporation typically collaborates with various healthcare insurers to provide employee health benefits, tailoring its offerings based on the needs of its workforce. As of now, specific details on Middleby's current healthcare provider may not be readily available. It is advisable for employees or stakeholders seeking information on their healthcare options to directly consult Middleby's human resources department for accurate, up-to-date information regarding their healthcare partnerships. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As the healthcare landscape evolves, Middleby Corporation may face significant cost escalations due to projected hikes in health insurance premiums, particularly for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans, which could surpass 60% in some states. Factors contributing to this surge include the potential expiration of enhanced premium subsidies and increasing medical costs. The Kaiser Family Foundation indicates that without renewal of these subsidies, a staggering 92% of marketplace enrollees might see their premiums rise by more than 75%, intensifying financial pressures for both employees and employers alike in 2026. Click here to learn more

'Strong credit habits can give Middleby employees greater flexibility when preparing for major financial decisions, especially as they transition toward retirement,' says Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Middleby employees who build and maintain strong credit habits may position themselves for smoother financial decisions in the years leading up to retirement,' says Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

How strong credit can support borrowing for major purchases.
Eight habits that may positively influence your credit score.
Ways to monitor and maintain the accuracy of your credit report.

When borrowing for a major purchase, strong credit can make the process smoother and possibly less expensive. Like preparing for a long-term project at Middleby, progress comes from consistent effort over time—not rushing right before the deadline.

Here are eight habits that can support your credit score.

1. Make timely bill payments

Payment history is a major factor in credit scoring. Staying on top of due dates for loans and credit cards demonstrates reliability. Options like scheduled reminders or autopay can help keep everything flowing.

2. Maintain minimal credit balances

Using only a portion of your available credit—especially on revolving accounts like credit cards—can contribute to a stronger score. Credit utilization (how much of your borrowing limit you’re using) is a key consideration for lenders.

3. Keep older accounts open when it makes sense

The length of your credit history influences how strong your borrowing profile appears. Older accounts highlight more long-term behavior. However, if an account has high fees or encourages overspending, closing it may still be practical for some Middleby households.

4. Limit unnecessary new credit applications

Applying for credit can trigger hard inquiries that temporarily place slight downward pressure on your credit score. Multiple inquiries for the same type of loan—like mortgage rate shopping—typically count as one within a defined window. Checking your own credit does not affect your score.

5. Maintain a healthy mix of credit types

Responsibly managing a blend of installment loans and revolving accounts can demonstrate financial flexibility. This doesn’t mean taking on debt that isn’t needed. However, thoughtfully managing different forms of credit over time may help strengthen your profile as life evolves during and after a Middleby career.

6. Monitor your credit report regularly

You are entitled to free credit reports from the major bureaus—Equifax®, Experian®, and TransUnion®. Reviewing them can help identify errors, lingering balances, or signs of fraud. Staying proactive keeps your credit information accurate and up-to-date.

7. Dispute any reporting mistakes

If you find incorrect data on your report, you can file a dispute with the reporting bureau and contact the creditor at issue. Fixing errors can help make sure your score reflects your actual history.

8. Strengthen your overall financial picture

Budgeting, keeping debt manageable, and maintaining an emergency fund may make it easier to keep up with credit-related commitments. When finances stay organized, positive credit habits typically follow.

Need help planning for retirement?

A well-managed credit profile can be an important part of your overall financial life, including the transition into retirement. The Retirement Group can assist you as you prepare for your future. If you would like guidance, call (800) 900-5867 to speak with our team.

Need help planning for retirement?

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Sources:

1. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “How Do I Dispute an Error on My Credit Report?” CFPB , 18 Dec. 2024, www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/how-do-i-dispute-an-error-on-my-credit-report-en-314/ . Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

2. Experian Editorial Team. “Do Multiple Loan Inquiries Affect Your Credit Score?” Experian , 30 Aug. 2024, www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/do-multiple-loan-inquiries-affect-your-credit-score/ . Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

3. FICO. “What’s in My FICO® Scores?” myFICO , n.d., www.myfico.com/credit-education/whats-in-your-credit-score . Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

4. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. “Credit Reports.” FDIC , 1 Aug. 2023, www.fdic.gov/consumer-resource-center/credit-reports . Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

5. Federal Trade Commission. “Free Credit Reports.” FTC Consumer Advice , 2023–2024, consumer.ftc.gov/free-credit-reports. Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

What type of retirement savings plan does Middleby offer to its employees?

Middleby offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Is Middleby’s 401(k) plan available to all employees?

Yes, Middleby’s 401(k) plan is available to all eligible employees who meet the participation requirements.

Does Middleby provide a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Middleby provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.

How can employees at Middleby enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Middleby can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the designated benefits portal or by contacting HR.

What is the minimum contribution percentage required for Middleby employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

The minimum contribution percentage for Middleby employees to participate in the 401(k) plan is typically set at 1% of their salary, but it may vary based on plan specifics.

Can Middleby employees change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Middleby employees can change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

What investment options are available in Middleby’s 401(k) plan?

Middleby’s 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in Middleby’s 401(k) plan?

Yes, Middleby has a vesting schedule for the company match, which determines when employees fully own their matched contributions.

At what age can Middleby employees begin withdrawing from their 401(k) accounts?

Middleby employees can typically begin withdrawing from their 401(k) accounts at age 59½ without incurring penalties.

Are loans available from the 401(k) plan offered by Middleby?

Yes, Middleby’s 401(k) plan may allow employees to take loans against their account balance, subject to specific terms.

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

Name of Plan: From the sources consulted, the specific name of Middleby's employee pension plan is identified in the following document: [Source Document], Page [Page Number]. Pension Formula: Details on the pension formula used by Middleby can be found in the following document. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Eligibility criteria based on years of service and age for Middleby’s pension plan are outlined in: Name of Plan: The 401(k) plan provided by Middleby is listed in the following document: Eligibility Criteria: Eligibility requirements for Middleby’s 401(k) plan are detailed in:

Layoffs and Restructuring: In 2023, Middleby announced a significant restructuring plan to streamline operations and reduce costs. This included layoffs across various departments, particularly in administrative and support roles. The company indicated that these changes were necessary to improve operational efficiency and adapt to shifting market conditions. Importance: Addressing these layoffs is crucial given the current economic environment, which impacts job security and financial stability. Additionally, the restructuring could affect employee benefits and pensions, making it essential for employees to stay informed.

Middleby’s stock options and RSU programs are designed to incentivize performance and align employees’ interests with shareholder value. For Middleby in 2022 and 2023, stock options and RSUs were primarily allocated to senior management and key contributors. In 2024, Middleby continues to offer these benefits, focusing on rewarding high-performing employees and executives.

Middleby Official Website: Middleby’s official site may have details on their health benefits under the "Careers" or "Employee Benefits" sections. Generally, companies list their health plans, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with any wellness programs or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).