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'Deckers Outdoor 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: Provides health insurance through Kaiser, Anthem Blue Cross, and HMSA, with options including PPO, HDHP with HSA, and EPO plans4. With ACA costs rising, Deckers flexible plan options and employer HSA contributions offer a strong alternative to marketplace plans. Click here to learn more
'Deckers Outdoor 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 Deckers Outdoor 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 Deckers Outdoor Professionals
For Deckers Outdoor 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 401(k) plan offered by Deckers Outdoor?
The 401(k) plan at Deckers Outdoor is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.
How can employees of Deckers Outdoor enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in the Deckers Outdoor 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does Deckers Outdoor offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?
Yes, Deckers Outdoor offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees grow their retirement savings.
What is the vesting schedule for the company match in Deckers Outdoor's 401(k) plan?
The vesting schedule for the company match at Deckers Outdoor typically follows a standard timeline, which may vary. Employees should refer to the plan documents for specific details.
Can employees of Deckers Outdoor change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the Deckers Outdoor 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.
What investment options are available in the Deckers Outdoor 401(k) plan?
The Deckers Outdoor 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.
When can employees of Deckers Outdoor start withdrawing from their 401(k) plan?
Employees can typically start withdrawing from their Deckers Outdoor 401(k) plan at age 59½, although there are specific rules and conditions that apply.
Are loans available against the 401(k) balance at Deckers Outdoor?
Yes, employees may be able to take loans against their 401(k) balance at Deckers Outdoor, subject to the plan’s terms and conditions.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Deckers Outdoor?
If an employee leaves Deckers Outdoor, they have several options regarding their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it with Deckers Outdoor.
How does Deckers Outdoor communicate changes to the 401(k) plan?
Deckers Outdoor communicates changes to the 401(k) plan through official company emails, newsletters, and updates on the HR portal.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Deckers Outdoor Employee Pension Plan
Name of Pension Plan: Deckers Outdoor Corporation Pension Plan
Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees generally need at least 5 years of service to qualify for benefits. Age qualifications typically align with standard retirement ages (e.g., 65 years old).
Pension Formula: Deckers Outdoor’s pension formula typically involves a defined benefit based on years of service and average salary. The formula may be calculated as a percentage of the employee’s average salary over the highest earning years multiplied by the number of years of service.
Restructuring Layoffs: In 2024, Deckers Outdoor Corporation has continued its strategy to optimize its workforce, reflecting a broader trend in the industry towards efficiency and cost management. Despite reporting strong financial performance, including a record Q2 revenue of $1.092 billion, the company has made adjustments to its workforce to align with long-term goals. These layoffs, though not publicly detailed in terms of numbers, are part of a strategic approach to maintain competitiveness and shareholder value in an uncertain economic climate.
For Deckers Outdoor, the company offers both stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its employee compensation package. Stock options at Deckers Outdoor (NYSE: DECK) give employees the right to purchase company shares at a predetermined price after a specific vesting period. RSUs, on the other hand, provide employees with company shares upon the completion of vesting conditions without requiring an upfront purchase.
In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Deckers Outdoor has continued to utilize these equity compensation tools to attract and retain top talent. The stock options typically vest over several years, often linked to the employee’s tenure or performance milestones. RSUs are granted and become actual shares after a defined period, usually subject to the company's stock price performance or individual achievements.
Employees eligible for these benefits at Deckers Outdoor include senior executives, key management personnel, and other employees identified as critical to the company's success. These equity awards are designed to align employee incentives with the company's long-term financial performance, ensuring that key personnel are motivated to contribute to the company's growth.
Health Insurance: Deckers provides comprehensive health insurance options that cover a variety of healthcare needs. This includes medical, dental, and vision coverage. The company also offers Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to help employees manage their healthcare expenses more effectively.
Mental Health Support: Recognizing the importance of mental well-being, Deckers offers free memberships to Headspace for all employees, along with an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides mental health support. Additionally, virtual fitness classes are available to promote physical and mental wellness.
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