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'Cintas 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 Cintas: Cintas Corporation typically collaborates with various health insurance providers to offer employee benefits, but a specific single healthcare provider isn't disclosed in their publicly available information. Typically, large employers like Cintas may operate with several health insurance options, allowing employees to choose their preferred plans from major insurers. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As we approach 2026, Cintas may face substantial increases in healthcare costs, reflecting broader trends projected across the industry. Factors such as the impending expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies and escalating medical costs could push premiums sharply higher, potentially affecting employee coverage and benefits. With many insurers reporting significant rate hikes-some exceeding 60%-companies like Cintas may need to strategically manage these financial pressures to maintain competitive employee offerings while safeguarding their bottom line. By proactively addressing these challenges, Cintas can better prepare for the potential financial implications of rising healthcare expenses in the upcoming year. Click here to learn more
'Cintas 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 Cintas 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 Cintas Professionals
For Cintas 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 purpose of the Cintas 401(k) Savings Plan?
The Cintas 401(k) Savings Plan is designed to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.
How can Cintas employees enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Cintas employees can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What types of contributions can Cintas employees make to the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Cintas employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and may also be eligible for employer matching contributions.
Is there a company match for contributions made to the Cintas 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Cintas offers a company match on employee contributions, which helps employees save more for retirement.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the Cintas 401(k) Savings Plan?
The maximum contribution limit for the Cintas 401(k) Savings Plan is determined by IRS regulations, which can change annually. Employees should check the latest guidelines for the current limit.
When can Cintas employees start contributing to the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Cintas employees can typically start contributing to the 401(k) Savings Plan after completing their eligibility period, which is outlined in the employee handbook.
Can Cintas employees change their contribution percentage at any time?
Yes, Cintas employees can change their contribution percentage at any time through the benefits portal, subject to certain restrictions.
What investment options are available in the Cintas 401(k) Savings Plan?
The Cintas 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.
How often can Cintas employees review their investment choices in the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Cintas employees can review and adjust their investment choices in the 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, allowing them to align their investments with their retirement goals.
Are there any fees associated with the Cintas 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, there may be fees associated with managing the Cintas 401(k) Savings Plan, including administrative fees and investment fund expenses. Employees can review the fee structure 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.
Cintas offers a competitive benefits package that includes a pension plan and a 401(k) plan for its employees. The Cintas pension plan, named the "Cintas Retirement Plan," is available to employees who meet specific years of service and age qualifications, typically requiring several years of service and reaching a certain age threshold. The pension formula used in the Cintas Retirement Plan is based on years of service and final average pay.
For the 401(k) plan, Cintas offers the "Partners' Plan," which includes a company match for employee contributions. Employees must be active and have completed at least 1,000 hours of service during the fiscal year to be eligible for the company match. The 401(k) plan allows employees to contribute pre-tax dollars, and Cintas provides additional catch-up contributions for employees aged 50 and above
ERISA Settlement: In 2023, Cintas settled a class-action lawsuit for $4 million, addressing allegations of excessive 401(k) plan fees and mismanagement. The settlement includes non-monetary relief, such as conducting a record-keeping review within five years. This is important due to current economic, investment, and political environments impacting employee retirement plans. 401(k) Plan Management: The company faced criticism for high-priced, actively-managed investment options and excessive recordkeeping fees, which led to a significant financial burden on plan participants. This news highlights the necessity for vigilance in managing employee benefits amidst fluctuating economic and political conditions
2022 Stock Options and RSUs
Cintas Corporation offers stock options to its employees as part of its long-term incentive plan. The stock options, denoted as CTSO, typically vest over a four-year period. Employees are granted the option to purchase shares at a predetermined price, incentivizing long-term employment and performance. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), referred to as CTRSU, are also awarded to employees, converting into shares upon vesting. Eligibility for these stock options and RSUs is determined by employee rank and performance metrics.
2023 Stock Options and RSUs
In 2023, Cintas Corporation continued to provide stock options (CTSO) and RSUs (CTRSU) with slight modifications to the vesting schedule to align better with market practices. The RSUs vest over a three-year period, with one-third of the units vesting each year. Both the stock options and RSUs are designed to retain key talent and align employees' interests with shareholders.
2024 Stock Options and RSUs
For 2024, Cintas Corporation has introduced performance-based RSUs (PCTRSU) alongside the existing stock options (CTSO) and RSUs (CTRSU). These performance-based RSUs vest based on the achievement of specific financial targets over a three-year period. This addition aims to enhance motivation by linking rewards more directly to the company's financial success. Eligibility remains based on job level and individual performance.
Cintas offers a comprehensive range of health benefits to its employees, aimed at promoting overall wellness and providing financial protection. Key benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as health savings accounts (HSAs). The company emphasizes preventive care through initiatives like biometric screenings and the LiveWell program, which offers premium discounts for healthy behaviors. Notably, Cintas provides competitive pay and retirement plans alongside these health benefits, making it a rewarding workplace. Recent updates include adjustments in premium rates and expanded eligibility for wellness programs
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