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Cognizant Technology Solutions Employees: Save on Health Care Taxes with the 2026 HSA Expansion

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Cognizant Technology Solutions Cognizant Technology Solutions offers its healthcare solutions through its TriZetto Healthcare Products division, which provides integrated software and services to improve operational efficiency for payer organizations. This division focuses on a vast range of services, primarily aimed at managing Medicaid programs and enhancing healthcare delivery through automated systems. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As 2026 approaches, healthcare costs are predicted to experience significant increases, largely driven by the loss of enhanced federal premium subsidies and rising medical expenses. Insurers are requesting steep rate hikes, with some states seeing premiums soar by over 60%. This confluence of factors could result in out-of-pocket costs for many consumers spiking by up to 75%. The healthcare landscape is evolving, and without proactive measures, families may face more financial strain amid these projected challenges. Click here to learn more

'With the 2026 expansion of HSA eligibility, Cognizant Technology Solutions employees have a rare opportunity to integrate tax-advantaged health care savings into long-term retirement planning, turning modest contributions into meaningful, tax-favored reserves.' – Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Cognizant Technology Solutions employees can leverage the expanded HSA rules in 2026 to build a versatile, tax-advantaged reserve for future health care costs, complementing their broader retirement strategy.' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will cover:

  1. The expansion of Health Savings Account (HSA) eligibility in 2026.

  2. The triple tax advantages that HSAs offer.

  3. How Cognizant Technology Solutions employees can incorporate HSAs into long-term retirement planning

By Kevin Won, Wealth Enhancement advisor

Health Savings Accounts Are Expanded: Millions More May Qualify in 2026

Thanks to a key change in tax law, an estimated 10 million more Americans may qualify for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) starting in 2026. 1  For eligible employees at Cognizant Technology Solutions, this could represent a major chance to manage taxes while building long-term health care reserves.

Kevin Won, an advisor at Wealth Enhancement, describes this as “one of the most underused yet effective ways to mitigate taxes while planning for health care costs in retirement.” He further notes that many more households will now have access to powerful solutions for growing tax-favored savings that support long-term goals.

How HSAs Work

For eligible medical expenses, HSAs function as tax-advantaged accounts. Because contributions are made before taxes, taxable income is reduced immediately. After funding, account balances may be invested and grow without yearly tax drag. A triple benefit emerges when qualified medical withdrawals are made, as those withdrawals are not taxed. Cognizant Technology Solutions employees may find these features especially compelling, because unused balances carry forward indefinitely, somewhat like a 401(k).

What Changes in 2026

Under current rules, only individuals in high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) are eligible for HSAs. As of January 1, 2026, however, certain policies purchased through the Affordable Care Act's marketplace and other insurance plans will also be eligible. Specifically, it will become possible to pair HSAs with marketplace bronze plans and catastrophic plans, which will be treated as HDHPs going forward. 2  For Cognizant Technology Solutions retirees, this shift may open new possibilities that were previously closed. The updated law offers an additional way to enhance tax efficiency and plan for future medical costs.

The Triple Tax Advantage

Won outlines three core benefits of HSAs:

  1. Contributions are deductible, which lowers taxable income upon deposit.

  2. Investments grow on a tax-free basis.

  3. Withdrawals for eligible health costs are untaxed.

Thanks to these features, HSAs offer a tax-efficient way to save for health care costs. After age 65, HSA funds can even be used for non-medical expenses, although withdrawals for those purposes are taxable. 3  This allows Cognizant Technology Solutions employees to use them like a supplemental retirement pool to address medical costs or to provide additional income when used strategically. 

Bottom Line

For millions of Americans, the expanded eligibility in 2026 is a strong opportunity to manage taxes and plan for medical expenses more effectively. “The earlier you begin, the greater the compounding effect,” Won stated. Over time, even modest contributions can accumulate into significant tax-free funds.

In 2026, the annual contribution limit for HSAs will rise to $4,400 for single plans and $8,750 for family coverage. 4  For those age 55 and older, the $1,000 annual HSA catch-up contribution will also remain in 2026, permitting larger tax-favored deposits. For Cognizant Technology Solutions employees nearing retirement, that extra buffer may be especially helpful in offsetting rising health care costs.

A Final Analogy

Imagine an HSA as planting a resilient oak tree in your financial landscape. Each contribution is a seed placed with tax perks, sheltered from erosion as it grows, and harvested tax-free when needed for medical costs. With the 2026 expansion, Cognizant Technology Solutions employees now gain broader access to this fertile territory. By integrating HSAs into their broader retirement plans, participants can map contributions and growth, helping today’s modest seed grow into lasting tax-free shade for tomorrow’s health care needs.

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Sources:

1. Barron's. ' More People Can Save Taxes on Health Expenses With These Accounts Under the New Law ,' by Karen Hube. 5 Oct. 2025.

2. KFF. ' Expansions to Health Savings Accounts in House Budget Reconciliation ,' by Meghan Salaga and Kaye Pestaina. 29 May 2025.

3. Fidelity Viewpoints. ' 5 Ways HSAs Can Help with Your Retirement. Fidelity , Sept. 2025. 

4. CNBC. ' IRS unveils new HSA limits for 2026, ' by Kate Dore. 2 May 2025.

Other Resources: 

1. Kiplinger Editors. 'Seven Things You Should Do Before 2026 Because of One Big Beautiful Bill Changes.'  Kiplinger , 3 Oct. 2025,  www.kiplinger.com/taxes/what-you-should-do-before-2026-because-of-obbba-changes

2. Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. 'HSAs: An Overlooked Retirement Savings Vehicle.'  Morgan Stanley , 17 Apr. 2024,  www.morganstanley.com/articles/health-savings-account-retirement-tax-advantages.

3. AARP Editors. 'HSA May Be Your Secret Tax Weapon for Retirement Saving.'  AARP , 10 Sept. 2025,  www.aarp.org/money/retirement/hsa-secret-tax-weapon/.

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Cognizant Technology Solutions?

The 401(k) plan at Cognizant Technology Solutions is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their earnings on a tax-deferred basis.

How does Cognizant Technology Solutions match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Cognizant Technology Solutions offers a company match on employee contributions, typically matching a percentage of the employee's contributions up to a certain limit.

Can employees of Cognizant Technology Solutions choose their investment options within the 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees of Cognizant Technology Solutions can select from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan to tailor their retirement savings according to their risk tolerance and investment goals.

What is the eligibility requirement for the 401(k) plan at Cognizant Technology Solutions?

Employees of Cognizant Technology Solutions are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, often within the first year of employment.

How can employees of Cognizant Technology Solutions enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance with the enrollment process.

What is the contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Cognizant Technology Solutions?

The contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Cognizant Technology Solutions is aligned with IRS guidelines, which may change annually. Employees should check the latest limits each year.

Does Cognizant Technology Solutions offer a Roth 401(k) option?

Yes, Cognizant Technology Solutions may offer a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to make after-tax contributions for tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

What happens to my 401(k) plan if I leave Cognizant Technology Solutions?

If you leave Cognizant Technology Solutions, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave it in the plan, subject to the plan's rules.

Are there any fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Cognizant Technology Solutions?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Cognizant Technology Solutions, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

Can I take a loan against my 401(k) plan at Cognizant Technology Solutions?

Yes, Cognizant Technology Solutions may allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Cognizant Technology Solutions offers a 401(k) plan with a company match, generally providing a 50% match on the first 6% of an employee's base salary. Employees become eligible for this plan after one year of service. The company's pension plan, referred to internally as the "Cognizant Retirement Savings Plan," is more traditional and generally available to long-term employees who meet specific years of service and age requirements. The formula for the pension plan is based on final average pay and years of service. Information can be found in Cognizant's internal documentation and employee benefits guides​
Restructuring Layoffs: In 2023, Cognizant announced plans to lay off 3,500 employees as part of its "NextGen" cost reduction program. This move is aimed at reducing operational costs and optimizing its office space to adapt to a post-pandemic hybrid work environment. The layoffs are expected to save the company $100 million annually, although it will incur costs of around $400 million spread across 2023 and 2024. It is crucial to address this news due to the current economic, investment, and political environment affecting IT services companies, which are struggling to maintain profit margins while facing muted revenue growth.
Cognizant's Stock Options and RSUs Cognizant offers RSUs (Restricted Stock Units), which are typically granted to eligible employees, including executives and other key contributors. These RSUs vest over time, usually based on a pre-determined schedule, and convert into actual shares of stock once they are fully vested. In contrast to stock options, employees receiving RSUs do not need to purchase the shares; instead, they receive the shares directly once the RSUs vest. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Cognizant continued to provide these RSUs as part of their incentive programs, with eligibility typically extending to director-level positions and above. Employees at Cognizant who meet specific performance or tenure criteria are also considered for stock option grants, allowing them to purchase company shares at a set price after a specific period. These grants are usually awarded as part of annual performance reviews or as part of a signing bonus for new hires.
For Cognizant Technology Solutions, their health benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024 focus on providing comprehensive healthcare packages. These benefits include Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), and high-deductible health plans (HDHP), reflecting industry standards. The company also offers mental health resources and telemedicine options, highlighting their commitment to employee well-being. Recent news indicates that Cognizant is actively involved in healthcare IT, managing critical services for Horizon Healthcare Services, which underscores their ongoing investments in the healthcare sector.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Cognizant Technology Solutions at 500 Frank W. Burr Blvd. Teaneck, NJ 7666; or by calling them at (201) 801-0233.

https://www.cognizant.com/en_us/about/documents/q4-2023-corporate-factsheet.pdf https://yourstory.com/enterprise-story/2023/05/cognizant-muted-q1-layoff-3500-employees https://www.cognizant.com/us/en/industries/insurance-digital-transformation/digital-retirement-operations-solutions https://www.cognizant.com/us/en/about-cognizant/2022-annual-report https://craft.co/cognizant-technology-solutions https://www.cognizant.com/us/en/about-cognizant/2023-annual-report https://investors.cognizant.com/news-and-events/news/news-details/2024/COGNIZANT-REPORTS-FOURTH-QUARTER-AND-FULL-YEAR-2023-RESULTS/ https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/retirement/net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-tax-treatment-amp-strategies/c71vBJZ2B https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/retirement/company-stock https://www.stordahlcap.com/insights/understanding-net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-and-its-tax-benefits https://www.cognizant.com/ https://news.cognizant.com/2022-11-29-Cognizant-to-Acquire-AustinCSI,-a-Premier-Digital-Transformation-Consultancy https://www.thelayoff.com/t/MqHEe7t https://www.cognizant.com/us/en

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