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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Dover Healthcare Provider Information: Dover typically has partnerships with a range of healthcare providers, but the core partnership often includes healthcare networks and insurance plans like UnitedHealthcare, which offers a variety of coverage options for employees. In many cases, the specifics of the healthcare providers may depend on the region and the employees' selected insurance plans. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As the landscape of healthcare financing evolves, 2026 is poised to bring significant premium hikes for Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance plans. Insurers are anticipating increases averaging 20% nationally, with some states reporting spikes over 60%. The expiration of enhanced federal subsidies is a critical driver behind the expected surge, potentially resulting in over 75% increases in out-of-pocket costs for many enrollees. This scenario creates a daunting challenge for consumers, as they navigate shifting financial responsibilities amidst rising medical costs. Planning and proactive health management in 2025 will be essential to mitigate the effects of these impending increases. Click here to learn more

'Dover 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.

'Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover Professionals

For Dover 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 is the primary purpose of Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The primary purpose of Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by offering tax-advantaged savings options.

How can employees enroll in Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can enroll in Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Dover match employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Dover offers a matching contribution to employee contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan, up to a certain percentage.

What types of contributions can employees make to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and may also have the option for catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older.

When can employees start contributing to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can start contributing to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan after completing the eligibility requirements, which are outlined in the plan documents.

What is the vesting schedule for Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The vesting schedule for Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan determines how much of the company’s matching contributions employees are entitled to keep based on their years of service.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) savings at Dover?

Yes, Dover allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

What investment options are available in Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Dover's 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 employees change their contribution amounts for Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can change their contribution amounts to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to the plan's rules and regulations.

What resources are available to help employees manage their 401(k) at Dover?

Dover provides various resources, including access to financial advisors, educational materials, and online tools to help employees manage their 401(k) savings effectively.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Dover Corporation offers both pension plans and 401(k) plans to its employees as part of its commitment to attracting and retaining talent. The company's pension plan is structured as a defined benefit plan, where employees earn benefits based on their years of service and average salary. This plan ensures that upon retirement, employees receive regular payments, which are calculated according to a set formula based on tenure and earnings. For instance, long-serving employees may receive a higher percentage of their final average salary as a pension payment (Dover Corporation) (Dover Corporation). Additionally, Dover Corporation provides a 401(k) plan that allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary toward retirement savings. The company typically matches a percentage of employee contributions, helping employees build their retirement funds over time. The 401(k) plan is flexible, allowing employees to choose between traditional pre-tax contributions or Roth after-tax contributions, depending on their financial planning preferences

Dover has recently undertaken a significant restructuring initiative aimed at optimizing its operational efficiency. In 2023, the company announced a series of layoffs as part of a broader strategy to streamline its operations and reduce costs. This move reflects a response to the current economic climate and aims to position Dover more competitively in a challenging market. It’s crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about such changes due to the ongoing economic uncertainties, which impact investment strategies, tax implications, and overall business performance

Dover Corporation provides stock options and RSUs as part of its employee compensation package. For 2022, employees were offered stock options and RSUs based on performance and tenure. In 2023 and 2024, Dover Corporation continued this practice, with updated plans and eligibility criteria.

1. Company’s Official Website Dover Corporation Official Website: Check their careers or benefits section for details on health benefits. URL: Dover Corporation Careers 2. Reliable Business and News Websites Glassdoor: Employee reviews often include information on benefits. URL: Glassdoor - Dover Corporation Indeed: Look for employee reviews and benefit descriptions. URL: Indeed - Dover Corporation LinkedIn: Company profile and posts may have updates on employee benefits. URL: LinkedIn - Dover Corporation Yahoo Finance: Search for recent news articles that might include employee benefits information. URL: Yahoo Finance - Dover Corporation Reuters: Look for news or press releases related to employee benefits. URL: Reuters - Dover Corporation 3. Industry and Financial Reports S&P Global: Detailed financial reports might include benefits information. URL: S&P Global - Dover Corporation Bloomberg: Check for company-specific reports and news. URL: Bloomberg - Dover Corporation MarketWatch: Recent company news and benefits updates. URL: MarketWatch - Dover Corporation 4. Healthcare News Websites Healthcare Dive: Industry-specific updates that might affect Dover’s health benefits. URL: Healthcare Dive Modern Healthcare: Check for updates on benefits and healthcare policies. URL: Modern Healthcare 5. Government and Regulatory Websites U.S. Department of Labor: Benefits-related compliance information. URL: DOL - Employee Benefits Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services: Look for any relevant updates affecting corporate health benefits. URL: CMS Summary of Findings Healthcare-Related Terms and Acronyms: Common terms might include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), HSA (Health Savings Account), and EAP (Employee Assistance Program). Recent Employee Healthcare News: Look for updates about changes in health plans, new benefits offerings, or cost adjustments affecting Dover employees.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Dover at 3005 Highland Pkwy, Suite 200 Downers Grove, IL 60515; or by calling them at (630) 541-1540.

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