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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Crane Holdings Crane Holdings typically engages with a variety of healthcare providers, but specific contracts may vary based on their employee benefits structure. It is advisable for companies to work with major insurers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, or Cigna to provide a competitive benefits package, especially in light of the upcoming healthcare cost changes expected in 2026. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As the healthcare landscape shifts, Crane Holdings should prepare for significant increases in health insurance premiums in 2026. With overarching trends indicating rises of over 60% in some regions due to the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies and escalating medical costs, many consumers-approximately 22 million-could face premiums surging by as much as 75%. Coupled with ongoing inflationary pressures in hospital and provider costs, strategic planning will be essential for mitigating financial impacts and ensuring continued coverage for employees. Click here to learn more

'Crane 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.

'Crane 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 Crane 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 Crane Holdings Professionals

For Crane 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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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 type of retirement savings plan does Crane Holdings offer to its employees?

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

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

Yes, Crane Holdings provides a matching contribution up to a certain percentage of the employee's salary.

What is the eligibility requirement for employees to participate in Crane Holdings' 401(k) plan?

Employees are eligible to participate in Crane Holdings' 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically 30 days.

Can employees of Crane Holdings choose how to invest their 401(k) contributions?

Yes, employees of Crane Holdings can choose from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions.

Is there a vesting schedule for the matching contributions at Crane Holdings?

Yes, Crane Holdings has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan at Crane Holdings?

Employees at Crane Holdings can change their contribution amounts typically on a quarterly basis or as specified in the plan documents.

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

The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Crane Holdings is aligned with IRS guidelines, which may change annually.

Does Crane Holdings allow for loans against the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Crane Holdings allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance under certain conditions.

What happens to an employee's 401(k) balance if they leave Crane Holdings?

If an employee leaves Crane Holdings, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash it out, or leave it in the Crane Holdings plan if eligible.

Are there any fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Crane Holdings?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Crane Holdings, 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.

Crane Holdings has announced changes to their 401(k) plan, including the addition of the JPMorgan Large Cap Growth Fund and the Fidelity Total Bond Fund to their investment options lineup. This is aimed at providing employees with better growth opportunities and more stable investment choices. The company also raised its full-year adjusted EPS guidance, reflecting a strong financial outlook which can positively impact the stability and potential growth of employee retirement benefits

Restructuring Layoffs: Crane Holdings completed a significant restructuring with the separation of Crane Company and Crane NXT into two independent publicly traded companies as of April 2023. This separation is part of a strategic initiative to streamline operations and focus on core business segments. As a result, some layoffs and restructuring within the organization may occur, though specific numbers are not detailed in the available sources. The restructuring aims to enhance shareholder value and operational efficiency.

Employee Stock Options Crane Holdings offers stock options to eligible employees as part of its equity compensation plan. These stock options provide employees the right to purchase shares of Crane Holdings at a predetermined price, typically referred to as the exercise or strike price. These options usually vest over a period, meaning that employees earn the right to exercise their options in increments over several years. For example, options granted in 2023 become exercisable at 25% on the first anniversary, 50% on the second anniversary, 75% on the third anniversary, and fully vested by the fourth anniversary. Crane Holdings’ stock options are available primarily to key employees, including executives and senior management, as a way to retain talent and align their interests with shareholders (CraneCo) (SEC.gov) (SEC.gov). Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) Crane Holdings also grants RSUs, which represent a promise to deliver shares of stock to employees upon the fulfillment of certain conditions, such as continued employment over a vesting period. For instance, RSUs granted in 2023 vest on December 31, 2025, contingent on Crane Holdings achieving specific performance criteria and the employee remaining with the company. These units do not require employees to pay an exercise price; instead, they are given shares outright after meeting the vesting conditions. RSUs are typically awarded to a broader group of employees, including senior executives and key contributors, to incentivize long-term performance and loyalty (SEC.gov) (CraneCo) (CraneCo).

Crane Holdings has made significant strides in its employee health benefits over the past few years. For the years 2022, 2023, and 2024, they have consistently aimed to provide comprehensive health coverage to their employees. Health Benefits Overview 2022: Crane Holdings focused on maintaining a robust health benefits package for its employees. They offered standard health insurance options, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. In addition to these, Crane provided supplemental insurances such as life insurance, disability insurance, and long-term care insurance, which employees could opt into during open enrollment periods at advantageous group rates (Home Page) (Business Wire). 2023: The company continued to enhance its health benefits, introducing more flexibility and additional coverage options. For instance, Crane Holdings improved its wellness programs, incorporating mental health support and telehealth services to better cater to the evolving needs of its workforce (CraneCo) (Home Page). 2024: In line with the latest trends, Crane Holdings expanded its benefits to include more personalized health management tools and resources. This included advanced health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs), as well as incentives for participating in preventive health activities

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Crane Holdings employees

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Crane Holdings at 100 First Stamford Pl., Ste. 400 Stamford, CT 6902; or by calling them at 203-363-7300.

https://www.macroaxis.com/stock/CR/Crane-Company https://investors.craneco.com/Investors/press-releases/news-details/2023/Crane-Holdings-Co.-Completes-Financing-For-Upcoming-Separation/default.aspx https://investors.cranenxt.com/press-releases/news-details/2023/Crane-NXT-Co.-Completes-Separation-from-Crane-Company/default.aspx https://intellizence.com/insights/layoff-downsizing/leading-companies-announcing-layoffs-and-hiring-freezes/ https://investors.craneco.com/ https://investors.craneco.com/ https://www.sec.gov/ https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1944013/000119312522305284/d57439dex107.htm https://www.craneco.com/ https://www.theretirementgroup.com/featured-article/5448065/crane-holdings-professionals-be-aware-of-these-important-employee-benefits https://investors.craneco.com/ https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230510005561/en/Crane-Company-Reports-First-Quarter-2023-Results-and-Updates-Full-Year-Guidance/ https://www.craneco.com/ https://investors.craneco.com/