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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Juniper Networks Juniper Networks generally collaborates with various healthcare IT solutions rather than being a traditional healthcare provider. Their technology focuses on enhancing healthcare IT infrastructure, providing solutions that improve patient care and operational efficiency. However, specific partnerships or healthcare providers directly associated with Juniper Networks may vary based on projects and agreements. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, significant hikes in healthcare costs are predicted, primarily driven by the anticipated expiration of enhanced subsidies and aggressive premium increases among major insurers. States like New York could see rates soar by over 60%, placing a substantial burden on consumers. The Kaiser Family Foundation projects that nearly 92% of ACA marketplace enrollees could experience as much as a 75% increase in out-of-pocket costs, exacerbating the financial pressure on families already facing healthcare challenges. As healthcare costs continue to rise, proactive planning and strategic healthcare choices for 2025 will be crucial for mitigating the impact. Click here to learn more

'Juniper Networks 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.

'Juniper Networks 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 Juniper Networks 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 Juniper Networks Professionals

For Juniper Networks 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 401(k) plan offered by Juniper Networks?

The 401(k) plan at Juniper Networks is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or post-tax (Roth) basis.

How does Juniper Networks match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Juniper Networks offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, where the company matches a percentage of employee contributions, up to a certain limit.

What is the eligibility requirement for Juniper Networks' 401(k) plan?

Employees of Juniper Networks are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specific period of service, typically 30 days.

Can employees of Juniper Networks change their contribution rate to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees at Juniper Networks can change their contribution rate to the 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

What investment options are available in Juniper Networks' 401(k) plan?

The 401(k) plan at Juniper Networks offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

Does Juniper Networks offer financial education resources for employees regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Juniper Networks 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 Juniper Networks?

If you leave Juniper Networks, you have several options for your 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Juniper Networks plan if eligible.

Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in Juniper Networks' 401(k) plan?

Yes, Juniper Networks has a vesting schedule for the company match, meaning that employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

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

Yes, Juniper Networks allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to specific terms and conditions set by the plan.

Are there penalties for early withdrawal from the 401(k) plan at Juniper Networks?

Yes, early withdrawals from the 401(k) plan at Juniper Networks may incur penalties and taxes, unless certain conditions are met.

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

Plan Name: Juniper Networks Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Eligibility: Employees are typically eligible for the pension plan after reaching 5 years of service. Age Qualification: Employees generally need to be at least 55 years old to qualify for pension benefits. Pension Formula: The pension benefit is calculated based on years of service and average salary. The formula is often a percentage of the average salary multiplied by years of service. Juniper Networks 401(k) Plan Plan Name: Juniper Networks 401(k) Plan Eligibility: All full-time employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan from their date of hire. 401(k) Plan Details: Employees can contribute a portion of their salary to the 401(k) plan, with company matching contributions up to a specified percentage.

Juniper Networks Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2023, Juniper Networks announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This included layoffs affecting approximately 5% of their global workforce. The company cited a need to realign resources to better address market demands and operational challenges. Source: Business Insider

Stock Options: In 2022, Juniper Networks (JNPR) offered stock options to its senior executives and key employees. The options were typically granted with a 4-year vesting schedule. RSUs: RSUs were available to a broader employee base, with vesting often tied to performance metrics and tenure.

Medical Insurance: Juniper Networks offers comprehensive medical insurance plans, including PPO and HMO options. They also provide access to a network of healthcare providers. Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for dental and vision care is included with various plans to choose from. Health Savings Account (HSA): Available with certain high-deductible health plans (HDHPs), allowing employees to save money for medical expenses on a tax-advantaged basis. Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Provides employees with pre-tax benefits for health-related expenses. Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Offers confidential counseling and resources for personal and work-related issues.

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

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