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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Hanesbrands: Hanesbrands Inc. typically offers health insurance to its employees through a network of major providers, including companies like UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, depending on the specific plan chosen by the company for its workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As the landscape of healthcare evolves, Hanesbrands may face significant increases in healthcare costs in 2026, primarily driven by rising insurance premiums. Reports indicate that insurance premiums for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans could surge by an average of 18% to 20%, with some states projecting hikes as high as 66%. The expiration of enhanced federal subsidies is expected to exacerbate the financial strain, potentially leaving over 22 million enrollees facing exorbitant increases in out-of-pocket expenses. Without legislative measures to extend these subsidies, many employees could see their healthcare costs skyrocket, which could significantly impact employee wellness and workforce stability. Click here to learn more

'Hanesbrands 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.

'Hanesbrands 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 Hanesbrands 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 Hanesbrands Professionals

For Hanesbrands 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 Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or Roth (after-tax) basis.

How can I enroll in the Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can enroll in the Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan by accessing the enrollment portal provided by the company, typically available during the onboarding process or during open enrollment periods.

What types of contributions can I make to the Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan?

Hanesbrands employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and may also be eligible for catch-up contributions if they are over the age of 50.

Does Hanesbrands offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Hanesbrands offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the vesting schedule for the Hanesbrands 401(k) company match?

The vesting schedule for the Hanesbrands 401(k) company match typically follows a specific timeline, where employees earn ownership of the matched contributions over a set period.

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

Yes, Hanesbrands allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to certain conditions and limits set by the plan.

What investment options are available in the Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to help employees diversify their portfolios.

How can I change my contribution percentage to the Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can change their contribution percentage by logging into the Hanesbrands 401(k) portal and selecting the option to update their contribution rate.

What happens to my Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?

If you leave Hanesbrands, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the plan if permitted.

How often can I change my investment choices in the Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can typically change their investment choices in the Hanesbrands 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to the plan's trading policies.

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

Hanesbrands Pension Plan: Name of Pension Plan: Hanesbrands Inc. Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees typically qualify for pension benefits after reaching 5 years of service. The normal retirement age is 65, but employees may also qualify for early retirement benefits at age 55 with at least 10 years of service. Pension Formula: The pension is calculated based on a formula that considers years of service and average salary. The specific formula details might be found in the plan documents. Hanesbrands 401(k) Plan: Name of 401(k) Plan: Hanesbrands Inc. 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Generally, employees become eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after 90 days of employment. Plan Features: The 401(k) plan allows employees to contribute a percentage of their salary on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Hanesbrands may also offer a company match up to a certain percentage of employee contributions.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Hanesbrands announced a major restructuring plan aimed at streamlining its operations and reducing costs. This plan included the layoff of around 250 employees across various departments. The restructuring is part of Hanesbrands' strategy to focus more on its core apparel business and improve operational efficiencies.

Stock Options: Hanesbrands provided stock options to select executives and key employees based on performance metrics and individual contributions. These options typically had a vesting period and were tied to the company's stock performance. RSUs: Restricted Stock Units were granted to employees as part of their compensation package, aligning their interests with long-term shareholder value. The vesting schedule for RSUs was usually over a period of several years.

2022: Hanesbrands' health benefits included comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance. They offered Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) as well. 2023: Benefits remained similar to 2022 with slight enhancements, such as improved preventive care coverage and expanded mental health support. They also increased the contribution limits for HSAs. 2024: Continued focus on mental health and wellness, including expanded telehealth services. The company introduced a new well-being program to support employees' physical, emotional, and financial health.