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'DoorDash 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 medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, HSAs/FSAs, fertility assistance, and generous parental leave. As ACA premiums rise, DoorDashs tech-forward benefits and wellness reimbursements help employees manage healthcare costs effectively Click here to learn more
'DoorDash 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 DoorDash 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 DoorDash Professionals
For DoorDash 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 DoorDash?
The 401(k) plan at DoorDash is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their salary before taxes.
Does DoorDash match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, DoorDash offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees grow their retirement savings faster.
How can DoorDash employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?
DoorDash employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the employee benefits portal during the enrollment period or after they become eligible.
What are the eligibility requirements for DoorDash's 401(k) plan?
To be eligible for DoorDash's 401(k) plan, employees typically need to meet certain criteria, such as being a full-time employee and reaching a specific duration of employment.
Can DoorDash employees change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, DoorDash employees can change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at any time through the employee benefits portal.
What investment options are available in DoorDash's 401(k) plan?
DoorDash's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles tailored to different risk levels.
Is there a vesting schedule for DoorDash's 401(k) matching contributions?
Yes, DoorDash has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched funds.
How can DoorDash employees access their 401(k) account information?
DoorDash employees can access their 401(k) account information online through the designated retirement plan administrator's website.
What happens to a DoorDash employee's 401(k) if they leave the company?
If a DoorDash employee leaves the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to a new employer's plan, an IRA, or cash out, subject to tax implications.
Are there any fees associated with DoorDash's 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related expenses associated with DoorDash's 401(k) plan, 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.
I found information about DoorDash's employee benefits, including details on their 401(k) plan. DoorDash provides a 401(k) plan for its employees, which includes a matching contribution of 2% of the employee's salary. However, DoorDash does not offer a traditional pension plan. The 401(k) plan is the primary retirement savings vehicle, and employees are eligible to participate once they meet specific criteria, typically after one year of service.
The sources reviewed did not provide a detailed pension formula or specific company acronyms related to retirement plans, as DoorDash seems to focus more on its 401(k) offerings rather than traditional pension plans. The information was gathered from DoorDash's official resources and employee reviews on benefits websites
In 2023, DoorDash announced layoffs affecting approximately 1,250 employees as part of cost-cutting measures due to economic challenges. The severance package includes 17 weeks of pay and extended health benefits. Additionally, DoorDash is piloting a portable benefits savings program to help workers manage health insurance and emergency savings, indicating shifts in how the company approaches employee benefits. This restructuring reflects broader economic pressures, highlighting the need for companies to adapt their financial strategies amid changing market conditions.
For DoorDash, the company offers both stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to employees as part of their compensation packages. The company's stock options are often granted with a four-year vesting schedule, and the RSUs generally vest over a similar period. Eligibility for these stock options and RSUs is typically limited to full-time employees, including executive-level positions.
In 2022, DoorDash continued to offer these benefits, with notable grants to key executives. The same trend persisted in 2023 and 2024, with some adjustments to the vesting schedules and the value of the stock options and RSUs reflecting the company's stock performance during these years.
Health Insurance Stipends: Under California's Proposition 22, DoorDash provides healthcare stipends to qualifying Dashers based on their active hours. For instance, those averaging 15 to 25 active hours per week receive $735 per quarter, while those exceeding 25 hours receive $1,470. This stipend is part of their effort to ensure that Dashers can access health insurance despite being classified as independent contractors.
Portable Benefits Program: In 2024, DoorDash launched a pilot program in Pennsylvania, introducing a portable benefits savings plan. This program allows eligible Dashers to allocate a portion of their earnings toward health insurance, retirement savings, and paid time off. The portability of these benefits is designed to cater to the flexible nature of gig work, ensuring that workers can maintain their benefits even as they move between jobs.
Merchant Health Benefits Initiative: DoorDash has also expanded its focus on healthcare benefits for employees of its restaurant partners. The "Merchant Benefits & Discounts" program, launched recently, offers discounted healthcare, mental health services, and other resources to small businesses. This initiative is aimed at helping restaurants attract and retain staff by providing access to affordable benefits typically available only to larger companies.
Collaboration with Stride Health: DoorDash has partnered with Stride Health to assist Dashers in selecting and managing their health insurance plans. This collaboration ensures that Dashers have access to personalized healthcare options that fit their needs, further supporting their independent contractor workforce with essential benefits.
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