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

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'Incyte 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.

'Incyte 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 Incyte 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 Incyte Professionals

For Incyte 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 primary purpose of the 401(k) plan offered by Incyte?

The primary purpose of Incyte's 401(k) plan is to help employees save for retirement by providing a tax-advantaged way to contribute a portion of their salary.

Who is eligible to participate in Incyte's 401(k) plan?

All full-time employees of Incyte are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service.

What types of contributions can employees make to Incyte's 401(k) plan?

Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and possibly catch-up contributions if they are over the age of 50 in Incyte's 401(k) plan.

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

Yes, Incyte offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which is designed to encourage employees to save for retirement.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to Incyte's 401(k) plan?

Employees can change their contribution amounts to Incyte's 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan's rules and limits.

What investment options are available in Incyte's 401(k) plan?

Incyte's 401(k) plan typically offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and possibly company stock.

Is there a vesting schedule for Incyte's matching contributions?

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

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) balance at Incyte?

Yes, Incyte's 401(k) plan may allow employees to take loans against their account balance, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What happens to my 401(k) account if I leave Incyte?

If you leave Incyte, you have several options for your 401(k) account, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it with Incyte if the balance meets the minimum requirement.

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

Yes, there may be fees associated with managing Incyte's 401(k) plan, including administrative fees and investment-related fees, 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.

Company Website: Visit Incyte’s official website, specifically their Investor Relations or Corporate Governance sections. These sections often include annual reports, financial filings, or governance documents. Annual Reports: Look through Incyte’s annual reports or Form 10-K filings for detailed information on employee benefits. These documents usually provide a section dedicated to employee benefits, including pension plans and 401(k) plans. SEC Filings: Search Incyte’s SEC filings for detailed disclosures. The Form 10-K and Form 10-Q reports will often include comprehensive information on employee benefit plans. Employee Handbook or Benefits Guide: Review any publicly available employee handbooks or benefits guides which might outline pension plan qualifications, formulas, and 401(k) plan specifics. Direct Inquiry: If online resources do not provide sufficient information, consider contacting Incyte’s HR department directly for the most accurate and detailed information.

Restructuring and Layoffs: Incyte announced a strategic restructuring in early 2024 to streamline its operations and focus on key therapeutic areas. This restructuring led to the reduction of approximately 10% of its workforce. The decision was driven by the need to adapt to the evolving economic landscape, including increasing pressure on R&D spending and market competition. This restructuring is crucial to address as it reflects broader industry trends and the impact of economic uncertainties on employment within biotech firms.

Incyte Corporation (INCY) Stock Options and RSUs Incyte provides its employees with stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its compensation package. Stock options allow employees to purchase shares at a set price, whereas RSUs represent shares granted to employees, subject to vesting conditions. For 2022, 2023, and 2024, Incyte has updated its stock options and RSU offerings to align with its growth and performance goals. Stock Options and RSUs for Incyte Employees Incyte offers stock options and RSUs primarily to executives, senior management, and high-performing employees. The allocation of these options and RSUs is based on performance, role within the company, and tenure. For the years 2022, 2023, and 2024, specific details about these grants, including vesting schedules and amounts, are detailed in Incyte's annual reports and SEC filings.

Details: Incyte's official website usually includes information on their employee benefits, including healthcare. They typically offer a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs).

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

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