'KB Home 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: Offers health insurance, life and disability coverage, and retirement plans. Benefits include paid time off and education reimbursement 3. As ACA subsidies expire and premiums rise, KB Homes employer-sponsored coverage may become a more cost-effective option for employees Click here to learn more
'KB Home 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:
-
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 KB Home 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 KB Home Professionals
For KB Home 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.
Featured Video
Articles you may find interesting:
Loading...
- Corporate Employees: 8 Factors When Choosing a Mutual Fund
- Use of Escrow Accounts: Divorce
- Medicare Open Enrollment for Corporate Employees: Cost Changes in 2024!
- Stages of Retirement for Corporate Employees
- 7 Things to Consider Before Leaving Your Company
- How Are Workers Impacted by Inflation & Rising Interest Rates?
- Lump-Sum vs Annuity and Rising Interest Rates
- Internal Revenue Code Section 409A (Governing Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans)
- Corporate Employees: Do NOT Believe These 6 Retirement Myths!
- 401K, Social Security, Pension – How to Maximize Your Options
- Have You Looked at Your 401(k) Plan Recently?
- 11 Questions You Should Ask Yourself When Planning for Retirement
- Worst Month of Layoffs In Over a Year!
- Corporate Employees: 8 Factors When Choosing a Mutual Fund
- Use of Escrow Accounts: Divorce
- Medicare Open Enrollment for Corporate Employees: Cost Changes in 2024!
- Stages of Retirement for Corporate Employees
- 7 Things to Consider Before Leaving Your Company
- How Are Workers Impacted by Inflation & Rising Interest Rates?
- Lump-Sum vs Annuity and Rising Interest Rates
- Internal Revenue Code Section 409A (Governing Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans)
- Corporate Employees: Do NOT Believe These 6 Retirement Myths!
- 401K, Social Security, Pension – How to Maximize Your Options
- Have You Looked at Your 401(k) Plan Recently?
- 11 Questions You Should Ask Yourself When Planning for Retirement
- Worst Month of Layoffs In Over a Year!
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 KB Home offer to its employees?
KB Home offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for retirement.
How can employees of KB Home enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of KB Home can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company's HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does KB Home match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, KB Home provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) contributions, subject to certain limits.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the KB Home 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for the KB Home 401(k) plan follows the IRS guidelines, which can change annually. Employees should check the latest limits for the current year.
Can employees of KB Home choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?
Yes, employees of KB Home can choose from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan to align with their retirement goals.
What happens to my 401(k) account if I leave KB Home?
If you leave KB Home, you can either roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out your balance (subject to taxes and penalties), or leave it in the KB Home plan if allowed.
Are there any fees associated with the KB Home 401(k) plan?
Yes, like most 401(k) plans, the KB Home 401(k) plan may have administrative and investment fees. Employees should review the plan documents for specific details.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts in the KB Home 401(k) plan?
Employees of KB Home can typically change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's rules.
Does KB Home offer any financial education resources for employees regarding the 401(k) plan?
Yes, KB Home provides financial education resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed decisions.
At what age can employees of KB Home start withdrawing from their 401(k) without penalties?
Employees of KB Home can start withdrawing from their 401(k) without penalties at age 59½, although they may still owe taxes on the distributions.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Company Employee Pension Plan
Name of Pension Plan: KB Home does not have a traditional defined benefit pension plan. The company focuses on other forms of retirement benefits.
Eligibility: KB Home provides retirement benefits primarily through a 401k plan. For traditional pension plans, KB Home is not reported to have a specific plan for employees.
Pension Formula: N/A
Years of Service and Age Qualification: Since KB Home does not offer a defined benefit pension plan, this information is not applicable.
Name of 401k Plan: KB Home 401(k) Plan
Eligibility: Employees are generally eligible to participate in the KB Home 401(k) Plan once they meet the age and service requirements set forth by the plan. Typically, this means employees who are 21 years of age and have completed one year of service are eligible to participate
401k Plan Features: The KB Home 401(k) Plan includes company matching contributions up to a certain percentage of employee contributions, and various investment options are available to plan participants.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, KB Home announced a strategic restructuring plan aimed at optimizing operations and reducing costs. This included a moderate reduction in workforce to better align with current market demands. The company emphasized that these changes are designed to streamline operations and improve overall efficiency. Given the current economic climate, it's crucial to stay informed about such restructuring moves as they can impact job security and organizational stability. Understanding these adjustments can also provide insight into how companies are adapting to broader economic and investment trends.
KB Home Stock Options: In KB Home, stock options are typically granted to executives and key employees as part of their compensation package. They are often subject to vesting schedules and performance criteria. (Source: KB Home 2022 Annual Report, Page 45)
KB Home RSUs: Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are provided to employees, especially those in higher positions or with significant contributions. RSUs vest over time or upon achieving certain performance goals.
2022-2024 Updates: In recent years, KB Home has adjusted its health benefits offerings to align with industry standards and employee needs. This includes enhancements to health insurance plans, introduction of telehealth services, and expanded wellness programs.
Focus Areas: KB Home has been focusing on mental health support and providing more comprehensive coverage options to ensure employees have access to necessary care and resources.
-2.png?width=300&height=200&name=office-builing-main-lobby%20(52)-2.png)
.webp?width=300&height=200&name=office-builing-main-lobby%20(27).webp)
-2.png)
.webp)