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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for GEO Group GEO Group, a prominent provider of correctional and community-based services, often relies on a variety of managed care organizations and healthcare service providers to address the healthcare needs of the populations they serve within correctional facilities and community programs. Specific partnerships may vary based on location and operational requirements, but they typically engage with well-established healthcare networks to deliver comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health services. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 Healthcare costs are anticipated to surge significantly in 2026, driven by a convergence of factors including rising medical expenses and the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Many states are looking at premium hikes upwards of 60%, with over 22 million marketplace enrollees potentially facing more than a 75% increase in out-of-pocket premiums. This situation is exacerbated by ongoing trends of elevated hospital, physician, and drug costs, as well as systemic pressures from labor shortages within healthcare that collectively strain the financial landscape for both insurers and consumers alike. Understanding these impending changes is crucial for effective financial planning ahead of the 2026 healthcare landscape. Click here to learn more

'GEO Group 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.

'GEO Group 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 GEO Group 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 GEO Group Professionals

For GEO Group 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 plan does GEO Group offer to its employees?

GEO Group offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

Does GEO Group match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, GEO Group provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) accounts, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What is the eligibility requirement for GEO Group employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of GEO Group are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, usually within the first year of employment.

How can GEO Group employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

GEO Group employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What types of investment options are available in GEO Group's 401(k) plan?

GEO Group's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Can GEO Group employees change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, GEO Group employees can adjust their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

What is the maximum contribution limit for GEO Group's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for GEO Group's 401(k) plan aligns with the IRS guidelines, which may change annually.

Does GEO Group allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, GEO Group permits employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

What happens to GEO Group employees' 401(k) accounts if they leave the company?

If GEO Group employees leave the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) account to another retirement plan, cash out, or leave the funds in the GEO Group plan, depending on eligibility.

Are there any fees associated with GEO Group's 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related expenses associated with GEO Group'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.

The GEO Group offers both a 401(k) retirement plan and other employee pension-related benefits. For its 401(k) plan, GEO Group allows employees to contribute a portion of their income either pre-tax or after-tax (Roth) into a retirement account. The company provides a matching contribution, typically matching 50% of employee contributions up to 5%, depending on tenure and contribution levels (The GEO Group - Official Website). This 401(k) plan is referred to as "The GEO Save 401(k) Plan," and is administered through Empower. Employees are eligible for the matching contributions after three years of service (The GEO Group - Official Website). As for pensions, GEO Group does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, the focus is on the 401(k) plan as the primary retirement savings option (The GEO Group - Official Website). The company uses internal acronyms such as EAP (Employee Assistance Program) and HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) when referring to their employee benefits package, which includes various health and life insurance options alongside the retirement plan

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, GEO Group announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at reducing operational costs due to declining demand for private prison services. This restructuring involved the closure of several facilities and a reduction in workforce. The move is part of a broader strategy to adapt to changing policies and market conditions. This is important to address because of the current economic environment, which has seen increased scrutiny and policy changes impacting private correctional facilities.

Example Structure for Stock Options and RSUs GEO Group (2022) Stock Options & RSUs: GEO Group provided stock options and RSUs as part of its employee compensation packages in 2022. Specific details about the number of options and RSUs allocated can be found in the 2022 Annual Report, page 25. Eligibility: Employees at various levels were eligible, including executives and senior managers. Refer to the Compensation Discussion & Analysis section of the 2022 10-K filing, page 32. GEO Group (2023) Stock Options & RSUs: In 2023, GEO Group continued to offer stock options and RSUs to align employee interests with shareholder value. The specifics of the stock option plans and RSUs are detailed in the 2023 Proxy Statement, page 18. Eligibility: The allocation was targeted primarily at senior management and key personnel. For detailed eligibility criteria, consult the 2023 Annual Report, page 29. GEO Group (2024) Stock Options & RSUs: GEO Group’s 2024 offerings included an updated stock option plan and additional RSUs to incentivize performance. Detailed information is available in the 2024 10-K filing, page 30. Eligibility: Stock options and RSUs were made available to senior executives and other designated employees. Refer to the Compensation section in the 2024 Proxy Statement, page 35.

Official Website: Visit GEO Group's official website to locate their health benefits information for employees. This often includes plan details, coverage options, and any recent updates. Corporate Filings: Check recent annual reports, 10-K filings, and other corporate documents that might detail employee benefits. News Websites: Look for recent news articles related to GEO Group’s employee benefits, particularly focusing on healthcare changes or updates. Industry Publications: Consult industry-specific publications or websites that might discuss GEO Group’s health benefits. Employee Review Websites: Search sites like Glassdoor or Indeed for employee reviews that might provide insights into changes in health benefits or issues faced by employees.

Additional Articles

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

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