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

Waters Workers Prepare for Sharp Health Care Cost Increases in 2026

Healthcare Provider Update: Waters provides health insurance coverage to its U.S.-based employees through a selection of medical plans that include options for dental, vision, and life insurance. Employees can access Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) with employer contributions, along with wellness programs, disability coverage, and retirement savings plans. The company emphasizes preventive care and offers resources to support physical and mental well-being. Waters Healthcare costs in the United States are projected to continue rising through 2026, with insurers proposing significant premium increases for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. A recent analysis found that ACA insurers are seeking a median premium increase of 15% for 2026, marking the largest hike since 2018. This surge is attributed to factors such as the anticipated expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, rising medical costsincluding expensive medications and increased hospital staysand a shift in the risk pool towards higher-cost enrollees. Without the renewal of enhanced subsidies, out-of-pocket premiums for ACA marketplace enrollees could increase by more than 75% on average. Click here to learn more

'With health care costs rising, Waters 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.

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

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