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

Caesars Entertainment Retirees Face ACA Premium Shock—Here’s How Others Are Responding

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Caesars Entertainment Caesars Entertainment provides healthcare coverage to its employees through various insurers, with the specific healthcare providers and plans varying depending on the location and type of coverage needed. The company typically offers a range of medical plans that cater to the diverse needs of its workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 for Caesars Entertainment As we approach 2026, Caesars Entertainment faces anticipated increases in healthcare costs that could significantly affect its employees and retirees. The expiration of enhanced premium subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is poised to drive up out-of-pocket premiums by an average of over 75%, particularly impacting those enrolled in ACA marketplace plans. Compounding this issue are general rises in medical costs, expected to trend at 7-10% annually, alongside insurer rate hikes. As a result, both current employees and retirees may need to reassess their healthcare budgets and planning strategies to accommodate these escalating costs. Click here to learn more

'Caesars Entertainment 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.

'Caesars Entertainment 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 Caesars Entertainment 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 Caesars Entertainment Professionals

For Caesars Entertainment 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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Articles you may find interesting:

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 is the 401(k) plan offered by Caesars Entertainment?

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

How can employees of Caesars Entertainment enroll in the 401(k) plan?

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

Does Caesars Entertainment offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Caesars Entertainment offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps to enhance retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Caesars Entertainment 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Caesars Entertainment 401(k) plan aligns with IRS guidelines, which are subject to change annually.

Can employees of Caesars Entertainment change their contribution percentage at any time?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the Caesars Entertainment 401(k) plan at any time, typically through the benefits portal.

What investment options are available in the Caesars Entertainment 401(k) plan?

The Caesars Entertainment 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in the Caesars Entertainment 401(k) plan?

Yes, there is a vesting schedule for the company match in the Caesars Entertainment 401(k) plan, which determines how long employees must work at the company to fully own the matched contributions.

Can employees of Caesars Entertainment take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, employees may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings in the Caesars Entertainment plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Caesars Entertainment?

If an employee leaves Caesars Entertainment, they have several options for their 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Caesars plan if allowed.

Are there any fees associated with the Caesars Entertainment 401(k) plan?

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

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Employee Pension Plan: Name of Pension Plan: Caesars Entertainment does not offer a traditional pension plan. Instead, they provide a 401(k) plan for their employees. Years of Service and Age Qualification: As Caesars Entertainment does not have a traditional pension plan, there are no specific qualifications related to years of service or age for a pension plan. Name of 401(k) Plan: Caesars Entertainment 401(k) Plan. Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan once they meet the minimum service requirement, which typically includes being employed for at least 30 days. Contribution and Match: Caesars Entertainment offers a company match on employee contributions up to a certain percentage of the employee’s salary.

Restructuring Layoffs: In 2023, Caesars Entertainment announced a significant restructuring plan involving layoffs as part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and reduce costs. The move was aimed at improving efficiency and aligning the workforce with the company's evolving strategic goals. This restructuring is crucial to address due to the current economic environment which impacts operational costs and efficiency. Source: Business Insider

Stock Options Caesars Entertainment typically offers stock options to key executives and senior employees. Options are granted with a specific exercise price and vesting schedule. RSUs Caesars Entertainment provides Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to employees, generally aligning with performance and tenure. RSUs vest over a set period and represent a promise to deliver shares upon vesting.

Camping World Holdings offers a comprehensive range of health benefits aimed at supporting the well-being of its employees. They have partnered with Alight Solutions to implement the "Alight Total Health" program, a holistic solution that provides personalized healthcare navigation and benefit management. This system allows Camping World employees to access a range of health options and engage in tailored health plans through a single integrated platform (Transformation starts with your people). In terms of specific healthcare-related terms and acronyms, Camping World’s benefits include various types of plans such as High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) paired with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). These plans offer employees flexibility in managing their healthcare expenses and provide options for preventive care and wellness programs

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Caesars Entertainment at 100 W. Liberty St., Ste. 1150 Reno, NV 89501; or by calling them at 1-775-328-100.

https://www.thelayoff.com/ https://finance.yahoo.com/ https://pensionrights.org/ https://www.pbgc.gov/ https://layoffs.fyi/ https://www.businessinsider.com/