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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Jacobs Engineering Group Jacobs Engineering Group provides health benefits to its employees through various insurance plans, with specific details on healthcare providers not publicly disclosed. However, it is common for large companies like Jacobs to partner with national insurers to offer health insurance coverage, possibly including names like UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, or Aetna. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As Jacobs Engineering Group approaches 2026, employees should brace for significant healthcare cost increases due to the combination of soaring ACA premiums and evolving employer strategies. A landscape marked by a potential 66% spike in premiums from major insurers in some states, alongside the expiration of federal subsidies, could significantly heighten out-of-pocket costs. Many companies, including Jacobs, are likely to shift more healthcare expenses onto employees through higher deductibles and copays, compounding financial pressure amidst rising medical expenses across the board. Understanding these changes will be crucial for employees looking to navigate their healthcare options effectively. Click here to learn more

'Jacobs Engineering 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.

'Jacobs Engineering 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 Jacobs Engineering 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 Jacobs Engineering Group Professionals

For Jacobs Engineering 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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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 savings plan does Jacobs Engineering Group offer?

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

Is participation in the 401(k) plan at Jacobs Engineering Group mandatory?

No, participation in the 401(k) plan at Jacobs Engineering Group is voluntary; employees can choose whether or not to enroll.

What is the minimum age requirement to participate in Jacobs Engineering Group's 401(k) plan?

Employees must be at least 21 years old to participate in Jacobs Engineering Group's 401(k) plan.

Does Jacobs Engineering Group offer any matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Jacobs Engineering Group offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the vesting schedule for the matching contributions at Jacobs Engineering Group?

The vesting schedule for matching contributions at Jacobs Engineering Group typically follows a graded schedule over several years, allowing employees to earn ownership of those contributions over time.

Can employees of Jacobs Engineering Group choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?

Yes, employees of Jacobs Engineering Group can choose from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions, including mutual funds and target-date funds.

What is the contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Jacobs Engineering Group?

The contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Jacobs Engineering Group is set by the IRS and may change annually. Employees should check the current limits for the specific year.

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

Yes, Jacobs Engineering Group allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What happens to my 401(k) account if I leave Jacobs Engineering Group?

If you leave Jacobs Engineering Group, you have several options for your 401(k) account, including rolling it over to another qualified plan, cashing it out, or leaving it with Jacobs Engineering Group.

How can I access my 401(k) account information at Jacobs Engineering Group?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the designated online portal or by contacting the plan administrator at Jacobs Engineering Group.

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

Name of Pension Plan: Jacobs Engineering Group does not seem to have a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, they provide a 401(k) plan with matching contributions. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Generally, Jacobs Engineering Group’s retirement benefits are based on the 401(k) plan, which does not have specific age or years of service requirements for vesting. Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan regardless of their years of service or age. Pension Formula: As Jacobs Engineering Group primarily offers a 401(k) plan rather than a defined benefit pension plan, there is no traditional pension formula applicable. Name of 401(k) Plan: Jacobs Engineering Group 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the Jacobs Engineering Group 401(k) plan upon hire. Matching Contributions: Jacobs Engineering Group provides matching contributions to employees' 401(k) accounts. The exact matching formula and contribution limits can be found in the company’s benefits documentation.

Jacobs Engineering Group Announces Workforce Reduction (January 2024): Jacobs Engineering Group has announced a reduction in its workforce as part of a broader restructuring effort to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. The company cited a need to align its resources with evolving market conditions and strategic priorities. This reduction impacts various departments and is part of a larger trend of restructuring seen across the industry. Addressing this news is crucial due to the current economic climate, which is marked by uncertainty and a shifting investment landscape. Understanding these changes can help stakeholders navigate their financial and career planning effectively.

Jacobs Engineering Group (Jacobs) offers stock options and RSUs to its employees. The stock options typically include Company Stock Option Plans (CSOP) and RSUs under the Jacobs RSU Plan. These benefits are available to senior management and key employees.

Health Insurance: Jacobs offers comprehensive health insurance plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Retirement Plans: 401(k) plans with company match, pension plans. Paid Time Off: Includes vacation days, sick leave, and personal days. Other Benefits: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness programs, and flexible work arrangements.