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

Healthcare Provider Update: Offers medical plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City, dental, vision, FSAs, and CVS Caremark for pharmacy benefits 5. As ACA premiums increase, Evergys union and non-union plans provide consistent coverage and cost control for employees. Click here to learn more

'Evergy 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.

'Evergy 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 Evergy 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 Evergy Professionals

For Evergy 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:

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 purpose of Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The purpose of Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by providing a tax-advantaged way to invest a portion of their income.

How can I enroll in Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

You can enroll in Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan by accessing the employee benefits portal or contacting the HR department for enrollment instructions.

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

Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and, if eligible, catch-up contributions to Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan.

Does Evergy offer a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Evergy offers a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps enhance your retirement savings.

What is the vesting schedule for the company match in Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The vesting schedule for the company match in Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means you earn ownership of the match over a period of time.

How often can I change my contribution amount to Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

You can change your contribution amount to Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to the plan's rules and limits.

Are there any fees associated with Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.

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

Evergy'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 can I access my account information for Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

You can access your account information for Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan through the plan's online portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

Can I take a loan from my Evergy 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Evergy's 401(k) Savings Plan allows participants to take loans 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.

For Evergy, the company offers both a pension plan and a 401(k) plan for its employees. The Evergy pension plan, often referred to as the defined benefit plan, requires employees to meet certain years of service and age qualifications to become eligible. The pension formula is based on the final average pay and years of service, which is typical for defined benefit plans. Non-union employees are generally enrolled in the 401(k) plan, which includes company matching contributions. The Evergy 401(k) Savings Plan, established in 1988, is the primary retirement savings option for non-union employees, while some union employees may still have access to a traditional pension plan. The specific eligibility, contribution limits, and matching details are provided in the company’s benefits documentation, typically through internal HR portals or detailed benefits guides.

Restructuring and Layoffs: Evergy announced a restructuring plan in early 2024 aimed at optimizing its operational efficiency. The plan included a reduction of approximately 5% of its workforce across various departments. This move was intended to streamline operations and reduce costs amid fluctuating energy prices and regulatory changes. Source: Bloomberg

Evergy grants stock options and RSUs as part of its employee compensation package. According to Evergy's 2022 Annual Report (Source: Evergy 2022 Annual Report, Page 45), stock options are typically offered to senior executives and key employees. RSUs are also granted to attract and retain talent, with specific vesting schedules outlined in the report. Evergy utilizes stock options and RSUs to align employee interests with company performance. The 2022 Compensation Disclosure (Source: Evergy 2022 Proxy Statement, Page 32) details that stock options are granted at an exercise price equal to the fair market value on the grant date. RSUs are granted based on performance metrics and time-based vesting criteria. In 2023, Evergy continued to offer stock options and RSUs as part of its compensation strategy. According to the 2023 Annual Report (Source: Evergy 2023 Annual Report, Page 50), stock options are given to senior management and high-performing employees. RSUs are awarded based on individual and company performance metrics.

Evergy offers a comprehensive health benefits package designed to support the well-being of its employees and their families. Their benefits include a choice of medical, dental, and vision plans, as well as life and accident insurance, long-term disability, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care. The medical plans are administered through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City, and Evergy also offers SavRx for union employees as a pharmacy benefit plan (evergy.com) (Evergy | Newsroom). Specific healthcare-related acronyms used by Evergy include FSA (Flexible Spending Account) and HSA (Health Savings Account), both of which allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses. Evergy’s health benefits include paid parental leave, which is part of their broader focus on work-life balance (evergy.com).

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Evergy at , ; or by calling them at .

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