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

Monster Beverage Workers Prepare for Sharp Health Care Cost Increases 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

'With health care costs rising, Monster Beverage employees should take time to review their coverage and align it with their broader retirement income goals,' — Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Monster Beverage employees can stay ahead of rising health care expenses by proactively evaluating benefits and incorporating future medical costs into their long-term retirement strategy,' — Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

Why health insurance premiums may rise in 2026.
How these changes could affect Monster Beverage employees and retirees.
Steps to help prepare for higher health care costs.

Millions of Americans, including employees at Monster Beverage, are learning that health insurance premiums could increase significantly in 2026. Depending on the state, income, and whether federal subsidies are offered, monthly premiums for many people may jump by double-digit percentages. ¹

Insurers are sending out letters to Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans nationwide, detailing significant rate increases that could impact Monster Beverage households who rely on supplemental or early retirement coverage. In many cases, people’s monthly premiums will go up by hundreds of dollars in the upcoming year. ²

Health policy researchers have collected new data suggesting average increases for marketplace plans could range from 10% to more than 20%. ¹ Many subscribers, including Monster Beverage retirees using marketplace plans, may see payments more than quadruple if expanded government subsidies disappear. ¹

Those purchasing insurance on the exchanges are not the only ones facing higher costs. Employer-sponsored plans used by many Monster Beverage families are also facing rising expenses as medical spending rebounds. In 2026, businesses anticipate an average cost increase of approximately 9%. ³

Reasons for Increasing Premiums

The main drivers behind premium hikes, according to insurers, include an aging population, rising medical costs, and increased health care usage post-pandemic—trends likely to impact Monster Beverage retirees.

In addition, unless Congress intervenes, the expanded ACA subsidies implemented during the pandemic are scheduled to expire after 2025, a potential concern for former Monster Beverage workers who rely on this support before Medicare eligibility. Without these subsidies, many middle-class families could see costs surge immediately.

More than 90% of ACA subscribers receive some government assistance with their premiums, ⁴ and analysts warn that if the expanded subsidies end, millions—including some who retired from Monster Beverage early—could lose coverage entirely by 2027. ⁴

The Individual Effect

Every statistic reflects a personal challenge impacting families. Small business owners, independent contractors, and early retirees are already reporting premium increases from $250 to $700 per month in several states. ⁵

Some households losing subsidies could face monthly premiums of $2,000 or more ⁴ —far above the $300–$400 range typical today—creating greater strain for Monster Beverage retirees trying to manage health care expenses.

Those living with chronic conditions face even harder decisions, since routine care and medications remain essential.

Getting Ready for 2026

Advisors recommend reviewing health plan options thoroughly during upcoming enrollment seasons, especially for those nearing retirement. This includes checking subsidy eligibility, comparing multiple coverage options, and evaluating whether a spousal or employer-sponsored plan could offer better value.

Professionals approaching retirement may want to consider tax-efficient health care savings tools like Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to help manage higher costs. It is also important to account for health care inflation when forecasting post-employment income.

A Monetary Urge to Act

Rising health care expenses can disrupt long-term goals for individuals and families, including those with many years of service at Monster Beverage. Medical coverage decisions should tie to retirement income strategies, tax planning, and asset preservation.

From retirement income and tax strategies to insurance and budgeting, The Retirement Group can help you evaluate how these changes may impact your future. Before open enrollment ends, call The Retirement Group at (800) 900-5867 to review retirement planning options and strategies to help navigate rising health care costs.

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Sources:

- 1. Ortaliza, Jared, Matt McGough, Kaitlyn Vu, Imani Telesford, Shameek Rakshit, Emma Wager, and Lynne Cotter. “ Individual Market Insurers Requesting Largest Premium Increases in More Than 5 Years .” KFF/Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker, 18 July 2025.
2. Buettgens, Matthew, et al. “ 4.8 Million People Will Lose Coverage in 2026 If Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Expire .” Urban Institute, Sept. 2025, pp. 1, 5-6, 12-13.
3. Umland, Beth, and Sunit Patel. “ Employers Prepare for the Highest Health Benefit Cost Increase in 15 Years .” Mercer, 3 Sept. 2025.
4. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. ' Five Key Changes to ACA Marketplaces Amid Uncertainty Over Premium Tax Credit Enhancements ,' by Jennifer Sullivan and Nicole Rapfogel. Sep. 22, 2025.
5. abc News. ' ACA policyholders say soaring health insurance premiums are jeopardizing lives ,' by Mary Kekatos and Bill Hutchinson. Sep. 7, 2025.

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.