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

Monster Beverage Employees: Expect Rising Health Insurance Costs in 2026

Healthcare Provider Update: Offers 100% employer-paid medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance for full-time employees 5. As ACA premiums rise by 1518%, Monsters fully covered plans provide a strong financial buffer against marketplace volatility. Click here to learn more

'Rising health care costs underscore the importance for Monster Beverage employees to regularly review their benefits and long-term financial strategy,' says Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'With health care expenses climbing faster than wages, Monster Beverage employees should proactively evaluate their coverage options to help protect their long-term financial well-being,' says Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

Why health insurance costs may rise in 2026.
What changes could impact Affordable Care Act and employer plans.
How to review your options during open enrollment.

Health insurance expenses may soon climb even higher for millions of households, including those of Monster Beverage employees. Some people have even received advance notice of increases through 2026, adding to concerns that affordable insurance options are becoming more limited.

If you are one of the approximately 24 million Americans enrolled in an ACA marketplace plan, ¹ be aware that significant shifts could occur soon. If enhanced ACA premium tax credits expire after 2025, the average family premium could rise 114%, jumping from $888 in 2025 to $1,904 in 2026. ¹

Rising expenses are also impacting those covered through employer plans, including employees at Monster Beverage. Surveys indicate that employer-sponsored health insurance costs are estimated to go up by 6% to 9% in 2026—the biggest increase in more than 15 years. ² As companies continue shifting more of these expenses to workers, payroll deductions and out-of-pocket costs are on the rise. Health care cost growth is even outpacing wage growth, ³ adding pressure on family budgets.

Why Are Prices Increasing?

Many factors contribute to the upward trend, ³ including:

- A surge in medical visits delayed during the pandemic
- The growing number of older Americans requiring ongoing care
- Continued high incidence of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease
- Shortages and rising labor costs in the health care workforce
- Higher demand for services combined with fewer workers
Competitive differences across regions also influence costs—some markets have many insurance options, while others have only one or two participating carriers.

What to Do During Open Enrollment

Review your current health care usage. If you typically use fewer services, a high-deductible plan paired with a Health Savings Account might lower monthly premiums and offer certain tax advantages.
Plan ahead for anticipated medical needs. If you expect more care next year, a plan with higher monthly payments but lower deductibles may help spread costs more evenly.
Explore additional coverage options. Depending on eligibility, Medicaid, CHIP, or catastrophic plans may help if employer or marketplace premiums increase sharply.
Stay flexible while enrollment is open. You can modify your plan through the end of open enrollment if your situation or subsidy rules change.

The Bigger Picture

Health care decisions are playing a larger role in long-term planning for Monster Beverage households. Rising medical costs can influence both current spending and future retirement readiness.

At The Retirement Group, we assist individuals in planning for health care costs both before and after retirement. To talk about available plan types and tax-advantaged options as open enrollment approaches, call (800) 900-5867.

Want Assistance Reviewing Your Options?

Health plan decisions affect more than just next year—they may also shape your future income expectations, especially if you’re planning to leave Monster Beverage in the near future.

You don’t need to navigate this alone. Before open enrollment deadlines end, The Retirement Group can help you examine your health care strategy alongside your retirement plan.

Want Assistance Reviewing Your Options?

Health plan decisions affect more than just next year—they may also shape your future retirement income needs, especially for those leaving Monster Beverage in the coming years.

You don’t need to sort through this alone. Before open enrollment deadlines end, The Retirement Group can help you assess your health care strategy and retirement plan.
Call (800) 900-5867 to get started.

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Sources:

1. Lo, Justin, and Larry Levitt. Early Indications of the Impact of the Enhanced Premium Tax Credit Expiration on 2026 Marketplace Premiums . Kaiser Family Foundation, Sept. 2025, www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/aca-marketplace-premium-payments-would-more-than-double-on-average-next-year-if-enhanced-premium-tax-credits-expire .

2. Mercer Insights Team. “Employers Prepare for the Highest Health Benefit Cost Increase in 15 Years.” Mercer , 3 Sept. 2025, www.mercer.com/en-us/insights/us-health-news/employers-prepare-for-the-highest-health-benefit-cost-increase-in-15-years

3. “Why Are Healthcare Costs Rising?” Marsh McLennan Agency , 5 Sept. 2025, www.marshmma.com/us/insights/details/rising-health-care-costs.html .

4. “Five Key Changes to ACA Marketplaces Amid Uncertainty Over Premium Tax Credits.” Center on Budget and Policy Priorities , 2025, www.cbpp.org/research/health/five-key-changes-to-aca-marketplaces-amid-uncertainty-over-premium-tax-credit .

5. Health Care Workforce Shortages. NIHCM Foundation, 4 Mar. 2025, nihcm.org/newsletter/rising-healthcare-workforce-shortage.

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

Monster Beverage offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

Does Monster Beverage match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Monster Beverage provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the eligibility requirement for Monster Beverage employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Most employees at Monster Beverage are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specific period of service.

Can employees at Monster Beverage choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?

Yes, employees at Monster Beverage can choose from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions.

How often can employees at Monster Beverage change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at Monster Beverage can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Monster Beverage employees under the 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for employees at Monster Beverage is set according to IRS regulations, which may change annually.

Does Monster Beverage offer any financial education resources for employees regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Monster Beverage provides financial education resources to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

When can employees at Monster Beverage access their 401(k) funds?

Employees at Monster Beverage can access their 401(k) funds upon reaching retirement age, or in cases of hardship, as defined by the plan.

Are there any fees associated with Monster Beverage's 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with Monster Beverage's 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How does Monster Beverage communicate changes to the 401(k) plan to its employees?

Monster Beverage communicates changes to the 401(k) plan through emails, employee meetings, and updates on the company intranet.

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 Pension Plan: Monster Beverage does not traditionally offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, the company may offer retirement savings plans or other benefit programs. Pension Plan Formula and Qualification: Information about the absence of a traditional pension plan can be confirmed from Monster Beverage’s annual reports or 10-K filings. For instance, if they have this information, it might be detailed in the financial statements or notes sections. Specific pages should be verified in the latest documents. Monster Beverage’s 401(k) plan may be named differently, but it is often referred to as the "Monster Beverage Corporation 401(k) Plan." 401(k) Plan Qualification: Employees generally qualify for the 401(k) plan after completing a certain period of service, typically 30 to 90 days. Eligibility criteria, including minimum age and service requirements, can be detailed in the plan documents or summary plan descriptions.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2023, Monster Beverage announced a restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This included a workforce reduction affecting around 5% of their employees. The move was part of a broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency and adapt to shifting market conditions. Given the economic uncertainties, understanding such changes is crucial as they can impact both job security and company performance.

Stock options are offered with a 4-year vesting schedule, mainly to senior executives. RSUs are granted based on performance and tenure, with increasing availability in 2024.

Monster Beverage Corporation: Their official site provides general information on employee benefits. Specific health benefits details are typically available in the “Careers” or “Employee Benefits” section. Key benefits usually include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as wellness programs.