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

Polaris Workers Prepare for Sharp Health Care Cost Increases in 2026

Healthcare Provider Update: Polaris is associated with UnitedHealthcare as its primary healthcare provider. For Polaris employees, the anticipated spike in healthcare costs in 2026 is concerning. With recent projections indicating that Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums could surge by as much as 66% in certain states, many employees may face a substantial financial burden due to the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies and ongoing medical cost inflation. This means that individuals reliant on ACA marketplace plans could see their out-of-pocket expenses increase dramatically, complicating budgeting for healthcare needs in the upcoming year. It's crucial for these employees to take proactive measures to navigate the financial landscape they anticipate facing in 2026. Click here to learn more

'With health care costs rising, Polaris 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.

'Polaris 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 Polaris employees and retirees.
Steps to help prepare for higher health care costs.

Millions of Americans, including employees at Polaris, 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 Polaris 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 Polaris 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 Polaris 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 Polaris 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 Polaris 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 Polaris 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 Polaris 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 Polaris. 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.