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Acushnet Holdings Retirees Face ACA Premium Shock—Here’s How Others Are Responding

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'Acushnet Holdings employees approaching retirement should recognize that proactive income and health care planning can make the difference between preserving subsidy eligibility and facing sharply higher ACA premiums.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Acushnet Holdings employees planning their retirement should consider how income levels influence ACA subsidies, as even small adjustments in taxable withdrawals can affect future health care affordability.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

How the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies after 2025 could impact health care costs for retirees and early retirees.
Real-life case studies illustrating how different individuals are adjusting to rising ACA premiums.
Practical steps Acushnet Holdings professionals can take before enrolling in 2026 Marketplace plans.

by Brent Wolf, CFP®, Wealth Enhancement

As open enrollment for 2026 Marketplace plans begins, many households are seeing dramatic shifts in their renewal letters. Rising base premiums and the possible end of enhanced subsidies after 2025 could mean significantly higher out-of-pocket costs for anyone purchasing coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) exchange.

The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) estimates that if Congress does not extend enhanced premium tax credits, average net premium payments could more than double in 2026. ¹

“It feels like a second mortgage to pay this premium.”

Profile: A couple in their early 60s who retired a few years before becoming Medicare-eligible.

What changed: Their ACA premium had been manageable due to increased subsidies. Their renewal now indicates a rise of about $1,000 to $1,200 monthly if enhanced credits expire.

Decision pressure: They faced hard choices—drawing more taxable income from IRAs, going without coverage, or returning to the workforce for employer-based insurance.

Our response: We reworked their income plan to align with the ACA’s income-based subsidy structure. By controlling their Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) through smaller IRA withdrawals, use of cash reserves, and partial Roth conversions, we kept them eligible for key subsidies. Comparing a Bronze high-deductible plan with a health savings account (HSA) to a Silver plan revealed the Silver plan—thanks to cost-sharing reductions—was more economical given their expected medical treatments.

“I can’t risk losing coverage while battling an illness.”

Profile: A single client in her early 60s undergoing ongoing medical treatment.

What changed: Without enhanced subsidies, her premiums nearly tripled.

Decision pressure: Balancing affordability with the need to keep her care team and prescriptions consistent.

Our response: We prioritized staying with her provider network and controlling her out-of-pocket costs. A dedicated “medical reserve” fund—equal to one year’s maximum out-of-pocket limit—gave her a cushion without liquidating investments during market declines. We also worked with her physicians to identify lower-cost prescriptions through her plan’s formulary.

“The new premiums are hurting our business margins.”

Profile: A self-employed couple—one partner managing asthma and the other a cardiac rhythm condition.

What changed: Without subsidies, their net premiums are expected to rise sharply.

Decision pressure: Continue paying high premiums, choose a plan with a very high deductible, or seek W-2 employment for benefits.

Our response: We compared total annual costs for a Silver plan versus a Bronze option, factoring in frequent specialist visits and prescriptions. Once total medical costs were considered, the Silver plan proved more cost-effective. We also aligned their life and disability coverage and tailored their tax approach to reflect potential changes in premium tax credits.

“I’m young and healthy—do I even need full coverage?”

Profile: An independent contractor in their 20s with minimal expected medical use.

What changed: Premiums for mid- and high-tier plans nearly quadrupled.

Decision pressure: Choosing between a high-deductible Bronze HSA plan and catastrophic coverage.

Our response: We modeled three options—a Bronze HSA-eligible plan, a mid-tier plan, and catastrophic coverage. The Bronze HSA option offered the best mix of lower premiums and long-term tax benefits. Monthly automated HSA contributions build a future medical fund that can later be used for qualified health care expenses or Medicare premiums (excluding Medigap) after age 65.

Five Steps to Take Before You Enroll

1. Evaluate your total annual cost, not just the premium. Factor in deductibles, copays, and the possibility of reaching your out-of-pocket maximum.

2. Manage your MAGI carefully. ACA subsidies depend on income. Coordinate Roth conversions, capital gains, and IRA withdrawals strategically.

3. Verify your doctor and prescription coverage. Always confirm your plan’s provider network and formulary before enrolling.

4. Maintain a medical reserve fund. Hold six to 12 months of premiums plus a portion of your maximum out-of-pocket in cash or short-term Treasuries.

5. Finalize your plan by December 15. Open Enrollment for 2026 coverage ends on December 15, with plans effective January 1.

If Affordability Is a Concern

Choosing to go without insurance can expose you to serious financial strain in case of illness or accident. Consider the most affordable Bronze plan that still meets ACA minimum coverage requirements. If your income decreases during the year, you may become eligible for Medicaid or CHIP and qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. ²

How The Retirement Group Supports Acushnet Holdings Professionals

For Acushnet Holdings employees approaching or already in retirement, the intersection of rising health care costs and income planning can be complex. The Retirement Group focuses on helping clients navigate ACA subsidy rules, tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, and health care cost planning during retirement transitions.

To speak with an advisor about aligning your retirement income and health care planning, call (800) 900-5867 today.

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Sources:

1. Cox, Cynthia, et al. “ACA Marketplace Premium Payments Would More Than Double on Average Next Year if Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Expire.” Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) , 2025, pp. n.p., https://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. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. ' Understanding Special Enrollment Periods. ' June 2025.
Other resources:
1. “When Can You Get Health Insurance? | Dates & Deadlines.” HealthCare.gov , U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, n.d., https://www.healthcare.gov/quick-guide/dates-and-deadlines/ .
2. Publication 969: Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favoured Health Plans. Internal Revenue Service, 2024, pp. 8–9, https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p969.pdf .
3. “Silver vs. Bronze Plan Selection: Cost-Comparison Scenarios.” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) , 23 Dec. 2024, pp. 1–3, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/silver-vs-bronze-cost-comparison-scenario-resource.pdf .
4. Murphy, Tom. “Expect Health Insurance Prices to Rise Next Year, Brokers Say.” AP News , Associated Press, 24 Aug. 2025, https://apnews.com/article/health-insurance-drug-costs-2026-rates-c4d865ec09c7088ecc6b55dc520f3566 .

What type of retirement plan does Acushnet Holdings offer to its employees?

Acushnet Holdings offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Is the 401(k) plan at Acushnet Holdings available to all employees?

Yes, the 401(k) plan at Acushnet Holdings is available to all eligible employees.

Does Acushnet Holdings provide any employer matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Acushnet Holdings provides employer matching contributions to help employees save for retirement.

How can employees at Acushnet Holdings enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Acushnet Holdings can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the vesting schedule for employer contributions in the Acushnet Holdings 401(k) plan?

The vesting schedule for employer contributions in the Acushnet Holdings 401(k) plan typically follows a standard schedule, which employees can review in the plan documents.

Can employees at Acushnet Holdings take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, employees at Acushnet Holdings may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms.

What investment options are available in the Acushnet Holdings 401(k) plan?

The Acushnet Holdings 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.

How often can employees at Acushnet Holdings change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at Acushnet Holdings can typically change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to plan rules.

Does Acushnet Holdings offer financial education resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?

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

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Acushnet Holdings 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Acushnet Holdings 401(k) plan aligns with IRS guidelines, which are updated annually.

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: Acushnet Holdings does not appear to have a traditional defined benefit pension plan based on available data. Pension Formula: Not applicable, as no defined benefit plan is identified. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Since Acushnet Holdings does not seem to offer a traditional pension plan, specific criteria for years of service and age qualification are not applicable. Name of 401(k) Plan: Acushnet Holdings 401(k) Plan Eligibility Criteria: Employees: Generally, full-time employees are eligible. Enrollment: Employees can typically enroll after completing a specified period of service, often 30 days.

News: In 2023, Acushnet Holdings, the parent company of Titleist and FootJoy, announced a restructuring initiative as part of its ongoing efforts to optimize its operations and respond to changing market conditions. The company indicated that this restructuring would involve adjustments to its workforce and potential changes to employee benefits. This move was influenced by broader economic uncertainties and shifting consumer preferences, which required the company to realign its resources for improved efficiency.

Acushnet Holdings offers stock options and RSUs to its employees as part of its compensation package. According to the 2022 10-K filing, stock options are primarily available to executives and key employees, with specific vesting schedules outlined in the company's equity incentive plan. RSUs are granted to various levels of employees, with vesting typically over a multi-year period.

Check reputable business and news sites such as Bloomberg, Reuters, and Forbes for recent articles or updates on Acushnet Holdings' employee health benefits. Financial and Industry Reports Look at financial news platforms or industry-specific reports that might discuss employee benefits as part of broader company performance or industry trends. Employee Review Sites Websites like Glassdoor or Indeed often contain reviews from employees that might include information about health benefits. Professional Networks Sites like LinkedIn or industry-specific forums might have discussions or posts about recent changes in employee benefits. Summary of Search Results for Acushnet Holdings 1. Official Website: Acushnet Holdings: The official site may offer information under sections like "Careers" or "Employee Benefits". Look for detailed descriptions of health insurance options, wellness programs, and any recent updates. 2. Reliable News Sources: Check Bloomberg, Reuters, and Forbes for articles related to Acushnet Holdings' employee health benefits. Look for any reports or news that highlight changes or updates in their health benefits offerings. 3. Financial and Industry Reports: Review industry reports from sources like MarketWatch or industry-specific publications that might provide insights into employee benefits as part of company performance or industry trends. 4. Employee Review Sites: Search on Glassdoor and Indeed for employee reviews that mention health benefits. Pay attention to reviews from recent years to capture any changes in benefits. 5. Professional Networks: Look for posts or discussions on LinkedIn or industry forums regarding Acushnet Holdings’ employee benefits. Key Healthcare-Related Terms and Acronyms to Look For HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan) FSA (Flexible Spending Account) HSA (Health Savings Account) EAP (Employee Assistance Program) COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) Recent Employee Healthcare News for Acushnet Holdings Search for any recent news affecting employee health benefits, such as policy changes, new wellness initiatives, or adjustments to health plans. I’ll proceed with these searches and provide a detailed summary of the findings.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Acushnet Holdings at 333 Bridge Street, Fairhaven, MA 2719; or by calling them at (508) 979-2000.