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'Intuit 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.
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Intuit Intuit, a leading financial software company, primarily utilizes UnitedHealthcare as its healthcare provider. This partnership enables Intuit to offer competitive health benefits and services to its employees, ensuring comprehensive coverage options. Brief on Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to surge dramatically, with many insured individuals feeling the brunt of escalating premiums. Factors contributing to this sharp increase include the loss of enhanced federal subsidies for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans, which has the potential to spike out-of-pocket costs by over 75% for the majority of enrollees. Additionally, numerous states are experiencing proposed premium hikes, with some exceeding 60%, primarily fueled by rising medical costs and aggressive rate increases from top insurers. As a result, consumers and employers alike will face significant financial pressures, prompting many to re-evaluate their healthcare options and strategies in light of these challenges. Click here to learn more
'Intuit 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.
In this article, we will discuss:
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How the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies after 2025 could impact health care costs for retirees and early retirees.
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Real-life case studies illustrating how different individuals are adjusting to rising ACA premiums.
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Practical steps Intuit 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 Intuit Professionals
For Intuit 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:
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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/ .
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2. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. ' Understanding Special Enrollment Periods. ' June 2025.
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Other resources:
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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/ .
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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 .
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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 .
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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 savings plan does Intuit offer to its employees?
Intuit offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
Does Intuit provide a company match for its 401(k) contributions?
Yes, Intuit offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.
How can Intuit employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Intuit employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What is the eligibility requirement for Intuit employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?
Most Intuit employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, typically within the first year.
Can Intuit employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, Intuit allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
What investment options are available in Intuit's 401(k) plan?
Intuit's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.
How often can Intuit employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?
Intuit employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.
Does Intuit provide financial education resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plans?
Yes, Intuit provides financial education resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.
What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Intuit?
If you leave Intuit, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) savings into another qualified retirement plan, cash out, or leave the funds in the Intuit plan, depending on the plan's rules.
Is there a vesting schedule for Intuit's 401(k) company match?
Yes, Intuit has a vesting schedule for the company match, which means employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched funds.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Pension Plan Terminology:
Defined Contribution Plan: A retirement plan where the employee and/or employer contribute to the employee's account, but the final benefit depends on investment performance.
Vesting: The process by which an employee earns the right to benefits from an employer-provided plan.
401(k) Plan Terminology:
Match Contribution: Employer contributions that match employee contributions up to a certain percentage.
Automatic Enrollment: A feature that automatically enrolls employees into the 401(k) plan upon meeting eligibility criteria.
In July 2024, Intuit announced the layoff of 1,800 employees, roughly 10% of its workforce, as part of a larger restructuring effort aimed at focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. This restructuring is being driven by the company's strategy to shift toward AI-driven solutions, such as its AI-powered financial assistant, Intuit Assist. As part of this strategy, Intuit plans to rehire in new AI-focused and customer-facing roles, with a goal of boosting innovation and growth in areas like data, fintech, and mid-market solutions. In its Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, Intuit stated that this transition would come with an estimated $260 million in layoff-related costs, including severance and employee benefits, and further investments into AI and data-driven platforms.
Intuit offers its employees stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of their compensation packages. Stock options give employees the right to purchase Intuit shares at a predetermined price, while RSUs are a promise to grant shares upon meeting vesting requirements. For example, RSUs vest over time or after performance milestones, with taxes withheld from the vested shares before employees can access the remaining stock. Both stock options and RSUs are considered ordinary income once vested and are reported on W-2 forms (Intuit Benefits) (TurboTax).
In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Intuit provided RSUs with vesting schedules based on years of service and stock performance. Typically, a portion of the shares is withheld to cover taxes upon vesting, and the remaining shares are transferred to the employee's account. Employees can then decide whether to hold or sell the shares. RSUs are commonly awarded to attract and retain talent and are available to full-time employees, with executives often receiving higher allocations
Medical Coverage: Intuit provides several medical plans depending on the employee's location, such as the Cigna Choice Fund with Health Savings Account (HSA), UnitedHealthcare (UHC) Network Plan, Cigna Managed Network Plan (EPO), and Kaiser Permanente (for employees in California and Georgia). These plans include broad coverage for services like preventive care, family planning, and physical therapy (Intuit Benefits) (Intuit Benefits).
Health Savings Account (HSA): Employees enrolled in the Cigna Choice Fund with HSA plan can contribute tax-free money to cover medical expenses. In 2023, the IRS limit was $3,850 for individual coverage and $7,750 for family coverage, increasing to $4,150 for individuals and $8,300 for families in 2024 (Intuit Benefits).
Mental Health and Wellbeing: Intuit places a strong emphasis on mental health. Employees have access to no-cost confidential counseling, support for managing stress, depression, and workplace challenges, as well as resources for mindfulness and resilience building
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