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'Coty 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 Coty Coty, a prominent beauty company, partners with various healthcare providers and insurers for employee health benefits, but the specific provider may vary based on location and employee needs. Coty typically engages with well-known insurers like Aetna and UnitedHealthcare to deliver health insurance options for its employees. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 Healthcare costs are anticipated to rise significantly in 2026, propelled by a convergence of factors affecting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. The potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies will increase out-of-pocket premiums for approximately 22 million enrollees, with estimates suggesting a staggering rise of over 75% in costs. Concurrently, insurers are submitting rate requests that reflect steep hikes-some states seeing increases of up to 66%-while overall medical cost inflation continues to press up prices across the healthcare spectrum. This combination of subsidy withdrawal and aggressive rate adjustments from major insurers could pose significant financial challenges for consumers seeking coverage in 2026. Click here to learn more
'Coty 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 Coty 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 Coty Professionals
For Coty 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 Coty 401(k) Savings Plan?
The Coty 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary to a tax-advantaged account to save for retirement.
How can I enroll in the Coty 401(k) Savings Plan?
You can enroll in the Coty 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the employee benefits portal or contacting the HR department for assistance.
What types of contributions can I make to the Coty 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and, in some cases, catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older in the Coty 401(k) Savings Plan.
Does Coty offer a company match for the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Coty provides a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to certain limits and eligibility requirements.
What is the vesting schedule for Coty's 401(k) company match?
The vesting schedule for Coty's company match typically follows a graded schedule, meaning employees earn ownership of the match over a period of time.
Can I change my contribution percentage to the Coty 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, you can change your contribution percentage at any time by accessing the employee benefits portal or contacting HR.
What investment options are available in the Coty 401(k) Savings Plan?
The Coty 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.
How often can I make changes to my investments in the Coty 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can typically make changes to their investment allocations in the Coty 401(k) Savings Plan on a regular basis, often daily or monthly, depending on the plan's rules.
What happens to my Coty 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?
If you leave Coty, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including leaving the funds in the plan, rolling them over to another retirement account, or cashing out (though this may incur taxes and penalties).
Can I take a loan from my Coty 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Coty allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) Savings Plan under certain conditions, subject to the plan's rules and limits.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Coty has seen a strong performance in 2024, with significant growth in its beauty market, particularly in prestige fragrances. This momentum has led to an increase in their fiscal year 2024 outlook. However, there is no specific news about changes in Coty's pension or 401(k) plans for 2024. Instead, the company has been focused on expanding its market presence and product lines, including launching successful new fragrances and entering new licensing agreements.
Coty reported strong financial performance in FY23 and into early FY24, driven by growth in both its Prestige and Consumer Beauty segments. Coty's strategic efforts in exiting the Russian market and focusing on key growth categories resulted in operational improvements. However, despite this growth, Coty has continued to streamline operations, which could involve restructuring and potential layoffs as part of their drive to enhance profitability and manage costs amidst ongoing economic pressures, inflation, and global market volatility
Stock Options:
Coty Inc. offers stock options as part of its employee compensation plan. These stock options give employees the right to purchase Coty shares at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price. The options typically have a vesting period, during which employees must remain with the company before they can exercise their options. Vesting schedules can vary, but they generally require employees to stay for a few years before all the options become exercisable.
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs):
Coty also provides Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to its employees. RSUs represent a promise to grant shares of Coty stock once certain conditions are met, such as remaining with the company for a specified period or achieving specific performance targets. RSUs usually vest over a few years, with a portion of the units vesting each year. Once vested, the RSUs are converted into actual shares of stock, which the employee can then hold or sell.
Latest Stock Options and RSUs (2022-2024)
2022:
In 2022, Coty continued to offer both stock options and RSUs to eligible employees as part of their long-term incentive plan. The stock options typically had a standard vesting period of four years, while RSUs also followed a similar vesting schedule. These compensation elements aimed to align employee interests with the company's long-term performance goals.
2023:
During 2023, Coty enhanced its RSU offerings, focusing on retaining top talent and incentivizing performance. The company introduced additional performance-based RSUs, which vest based on achieving specific financial targets. This move was part of Coty's broader strategy to motivate employees and drive company growth through equity compensation.
2024:
In 2024, Coty expanded its equity compensation plans to include more employees, offering a mix of stock options and RSUs. The company placed a greater emphasis on RSUs with performance conditions, reflecting its commitment to aligning employee rewards with the company’s success. Coty also made adjustments to its vesting schedules, making them more competitive within the industry.
Coty's healthcare benefits have been structured to support the diverse needs of its employees, particularly emphasizing comprehensive coverage and wellness initiatives. In 2023, Coty offered several health plans, including PPO and HMO options, which allowed employees to choose plans based on their specific healthcare needs and preferences. These plans included coverage for medical, dental, and vision care, as well as access to wellness programs aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle among employees. The company's commitment to healthcare is evident in its robust benefits package, which also includes mental health support and flexible spending accounts to help manage healthcare costs.
The importance of discussing Coty's healthcare benefits is underscored by the current economic and political environment, where healthcare costs are a significant concern for employees. With rising healthcare expenses and ongoing changes in healthcare policy, Coty's efforts to provide comprehensive benefits are crucial for attracting and retaining talent. Furthermore, in the context of economic uncertainties and tax implications, having access to reliable and extensive healthcare benefits can significantly impact employees' financial and personal well-being. The focus on healthcare benefits also aligns with broader investment in employee wellness, which is essential for maintaining productivity and job satisfaction.
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