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'Catalent 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.
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Catalent Catalent, a prominent player in the biopharmaceutical industry, collaborates with various healthcare providers to optimize its services. One of the notable healthcare partners for Catalent is UnitedHealthcare, which often works with organizations like Catalent to ensure streamlined processes in drug delivery and related healthcare services. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are expected to rise significantly, primarily driven by looming federal policies and medical inflation. Reports indicate that Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums may surge due to the potential expiration of enhanced premium subsidies, causing many policyholders to face out-of-pocket increases of over 75%. Insurers are already proposing steep rate hikes, with some states expected to see increases as high as 66%. This combination of factors, including rising healthcare service costs and more aggressive premium strategies from insurers, is set to intensify financial pressures on consumers in the coming year. Click here to learn more
'Catalent 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.
In this article, we will discuss:
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How the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies after 2025 could impact health care costs for retirees and early retirees.
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Real-life case studies illustrating how different individuals are adjusting to rising ACA premiums.
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Practical steps Catalent 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 Catalent Professionals
For Catalent 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:
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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/ .
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2. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. ' Understanding Special Enrollment Periods. ' June 2025.
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Other resources:
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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/ .
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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 .
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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 .
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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 Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?
The Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or Roth after-tax basis.
How can I enroll in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can enroll in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan by accessing the benefits portal or contacting Human Resources for guidance on the enrollment process.
What are the eligibility requirements for the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?
To be eligible for the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan, employees typically need to be at least 21 years old and have completed a specified period of service with the company.
Does Catalent offer a company match for the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Catalent offers a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.
How much can I contribute to the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can contribute up to the IRS annual limit to the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan, which may vary each year. It’s important to check the current limits.
When can I start making contributions to the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can start making contributions to the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan after they complete the eligibility requirements and enroll in the plan.
Can I change my contribution amount in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, employees can change their contribution amount at any time during the year by accessing the benefits portal or contacting Human Resources.
What investment options are available in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?
The Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.
How often can I change my investment allocations in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can change their investment allocations in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to the plan's trading restrictions.
What happens to my Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?
If you leave Catalent, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over to another qualified plan, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Catalent plan if permitted.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Catalent's Pension Plan:
Catalent offers a comprehensive retirement benefits package designed to support its employees' financial wellness. The primary pension plan provided by Catalent is known as the "Catalent Pension Plan." This plan includes a defined benefit formula based on an employee’s years of service and final average pay. Typically, to qualify for the pension plan, employees must have a minimum of five years of service and be at least 55 years of age. The specific pension formula details and eligibility criteria are laid out in the employee benefits documentation provided internally by Catalent (Catalent) (Catalent Investor Relations) (FiercePharma).
Catalent's 401(k) Plan:
Catalent also offers a 401(k) plan to its employees, which is referred to as the "Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan." Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan from their first day of employment. The company provides a generous matching contribution, where Catalent matches 50% of the first 6% of the employee's contributions. This plan is designed to help employees save for retirement with the added benefit of tax deferral on contributions and earnings
Catalent has been undergoing significant restructuring since 2023, including multiple rounds of layoffs affecting various facilities. In late 2023, the company laid off approximately 300 employees as part of a cost-cutting initiative aimed at consolidating its facilities. This was followed by further layoffs in early 2024, including the reduction of 130 staff members at its Bloomington, Indiana site, which is being sold to Novo Nordisk as part of a broader $16.5 billion acquisition deal expected to close by the end of 2024. The restructuring is driven by reduced demand for COVID-19-related services and a need to increase efficiency and reduce costs across its operations.
Importance: Addressing this news is crucial due to the current economic environment, where companies are navigating the aftermath of the pandemic, fluctuating demand, and economic pressures. These changes also reflect broader trends in the biopharma industry, where consolidation and cost-cutting measures are common as companies adjust to new market realities
Stock Options:
Catalent offers stock options to its employees as part of its long-term incentive plan. These options are designed to align the interests of employees with those of shareholders. Employees receive the right to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price, after a specified vesting period.
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs):
Catalent also provides RSUs to its employees, which represent a promise to deliver shares of the company's stock in the future. RSUs typically vest over a period of time, encouraging employees to remain with the company. Once vested, the RSUs are converted into shares, which the employee can then sell or hold.
Catalent offers a comprehensive suite of health benefits to its employees, designed to meet diverse needs and foster a healthy lifestyle. Their health insurance plans cover a wide range of medical services, emphasizing both personal and financial wellness. Employees have access to wellness programs, which aim to manage healthcare costs and encourage a healthy lifestyle. These programs include health insurance, wellness incentives, and various support resources to balance work and personal life, such as generous paid time off and flexible work arrangements.
In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Catalent continued to enhance its benefits offerings, aligning them with industry standards and employee needs. Recent updates include tuition reimbursement, global scholarship programs for employees' children, and comprehensive retirement plans. The company has also been recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, receiving accolades as a “Best Place to Work for People with Disabilities” for consecutive years.
Specific healthcare-related terms and acronyms frequently used by Catalent include "OptiDose® Design Solution," "RP Scherer Softgel Technology," and "OneXpress™ Solution," which refer to their proprietary technologies and approaches in pharmaceutical development and manufacturing.
Recent employee healthcare news highlights Catalent's ongoing efforts to support employee well-being. For instance, their 2023 Corporate Responsibility Report details initiatives in employee health and wellness, such as investments in diverse and inclusive workplace practices and contributions to STEM education
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