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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Hyatt Hotels Hyatt Hotels partners with Lantern Health, a provider focused on connecting employees with a range of healthcare services. Through this relationship, Hyatt aims to enhance employee wellbeing while also reducing costs associated with healthcare. Healthcare Cost Increases for 2026 As we approach 2026, Hyatt Hotels, like many employers, may experience significant healthcare cost increases due to the escalating premiums in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Reports indicate that some states could see hikes exceeding 60%, driven by a combination of rising medical costs, the potential expiration of enhanced federal subsidies, and robust rate hikes proposed by major insurers. As a result, employees could face out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75%, making it crucial to strategically manage healthcare benefits to mitigate these impending financial pressures. Click here to learn more

'Hyatt Hotels 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.

'Hyatt Hotels 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 Hyatt Hotels 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 Hyatt Hotels Professionals

For Hyatt Hotels 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 401(k) plan offered by Hyatt Hotels?

The 401(k) plan at Hyatt Hotels is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

How can Hyatt Hotels employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of Hyatt Hotels can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company's HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Hyatt Hotels offer any matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Hyatt Hotels offers matching contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees grow their retirement savings.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in Hyatt Hotels' 401(k) plan?

Employees of Hyatt Hotels are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, as outlined in the plan documents.

Can Hyatt Hotels employees change their contribution rate to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees at Hyatt Hotels can change their contribution rate to the 401(k) plan at any time, subject to certain guidelines.

What investment options are available in the Hyatt Hotels 401(k) plan?

The Hyatt Hotels 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

Is there a vesting schedule for Hyatt Hotels' matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Hyatt Hotels has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which means employees must work for the company for a certain period before they fully own the matching funds.

How can Hyatt Hotels employees access their 401(k) account information?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the online portal provided by Hyatt Hotels or by contacting the plan administrator.

Are there any fees associated with the Hyatt Hotels 401(k) plan?

Yes, like most 401(k) plans, the Hyatt Hotels 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

Can Hyatt Hotels employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Hyatt Hotels allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the terms and conditions of the plan.

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

Hyatt Hotels Pension Plan Details: Name of Pension Plan: Find the specific name of Hyatt Hotels’ pension plan. Eligibility: Determine the age and years of service requirements. Pension Formula: Identify the formula used to calculate the pension benefits. Sources: Include document names and page numbers. Hyatt Hotels 401(k) Plan Details: Name of 401(k) Plan: Determine the name of Hyatt Hotels’ 401(k) plan. Eligibility: Identify who qualifies for the 401(k) plan. Sources: Include document names and page numbers.

1. Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Hyatt Hotels announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This plan included a reduction in workforce across various departments. The decision to downsize was influenced by evolving market conditions and the need to adapt to new business models. The company emphasized that these changes were necessary to ensure long-term growth and competitiveness. 2. Benefit Changes: Hyatt also made adjustments to its employee benefit programs in 2024. This included modifications to health insurance plans and retirement benefits. The changes were designed to better align with current economic conditions and provide more flexibility to employees. Given the shifting landscape in benefits, it is crucial for employees to stay informed about these updates to make the best decisions regarding their personal and financial planning.

Hyatt Hotels offered stock options (SO) and Restricted Stock Units (RSU) primarily to senior executives and high-level management. The RSU program was designed to align their compensation with long-term shareholder value. 2023: For 2023, Hyatt Hotels continued to offer RSUs and stock options, focusing on performance-based grants. The company aimed to reward key talent and incentivize performance with these stock options and RSUs. 2024: In 2024, Hyatt Hotels maintained its approach, providing stock options (SO) and RSUs as part of its compensation strategy. The allocation was extended to senior management and selected high-performing employees.

Health Benefits Overview: Hyatt provides a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They also offer mental health support, wellness programs, and flexible spending accounts (FSAs). Healthcare-Related Terms: PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HSA (Health Savings Account), EAP (Employee Assistance Program), preventive care

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Hyatt Hotels employees

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

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