'Liberty Energy 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 three medical plans through Anthem BCBS, plus dental (Delta Dental), vision, FSAs, HSAs, and voluntary insurance options 10. With ACA premiums projected to rise by 75% for some, Libertys tiered plans and employer contributions provide a more affordable and customizable alternative. Click here to learn more
'Liberty Energy 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 Liberty Energy 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 Liberty Energy Professionals
For Liberty Energy 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 is the 401(k) plan offered by Liberty Energy?
The 401(k) plan at Liberty Energy is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.
How does Liberty Energy match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Liberty Energy offers a matching contribution of 50% on the first 6% of employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.
When can employees at Liberty Energy enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees at Liberty Energy can enroll in the 401(k) plan during the initial onboarding process or during the annual open enrollment period.
What types of investment options are available in Liberty Energy's 401(k) plan?
Liberty Energy's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, index funds, and target-date funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.
Can employees at Liberty Energy take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, Liberty Energy allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan documents.
What is the vesting schedule for Liberty Energy's 401(k) matching contributions?
Liberty Energy follows a three-year vesting schedule for matching contributions, meaning employees fully own the match after three years of service.
How can employees at Liberty Energy access their 401(k) account information?
Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the online portal provided by Liberty Energy's plan administrator.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Liberty Energy?
If an employee leaves Liberty Energy, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave it in the Liberty Energy plan if they meet the minimum balance requirements.
Are there any fees associated with Liberty Energy's 401(k) plan?
Yes, Liberty Energy's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.
What is the minimum contribution percentage for Liberty Energy's 401(k) plan?
Liberty Energy requires a minimum contribution of 1% of an employee's salary to participate in the 401(k) plan.
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 Plan: Liberty Energy Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Eligibility: Employees are eligible after 1 year of service.
Years of Service Qualification: Minimum 5 years to be vested.
Age Qualification: Employees can begin receiving benefits at age 65.
Pension Formula: The pension benefit is calculated based on the average of the highest 5 consecutive years of earnings multiplied by a percentage based on years of service.
Name of Plan: Liberty Energy 401(k) Savings Plan
Eligibility: Employees can participate immediately upon hire.
Contribution Limits: Employees can contribute up to the annual IRS limit.
Company Match: Liberty Energy matches up to 6% of employee contributions.
In recent months, Liberty Energy has announced significant layoffs as part of a broader restructuring plan. The company is focusing on streamlining operations and improving efficiency amid challenging market conditions. This decision reflects the current economic environment, where companies are adjusting their workforce to adapt to fluctuating demand and shifting industry dynamics. It's important to follow these developments closely due to their impact on employee job security and company performance.
Liberty Energy provides stock options (SO) and RSUs (RSU) to its employees as part of its compensation package. These incentives are typically offered to employees in senior management, key positions, and high performers within the company.
In Liberty Energy, stock options (SO) allow employees to purchase company shares at a predetermined price, typically vested over a period of time. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are granted with specific vesting conditions and are converted into shares upon meeting those conditions.
The availability of these stock options (SO) and RSUs (RSU) in Liberty Energy is designed to align employee interests with company performance and retention goals
HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan): A health insurance plan with a higher deductible but lower premiums.
HSA (Health Savings Account): A tax-advantaged savings account used in conjunction with HDHPs to pay for qualified medical expenses.
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): A health plan that offers a network of healthcare providers and allows for out-of-network care at a higher cost.
FSA (Flexible Spending Account): An account that allows employees to set aside pre-tax money for eligible medical expenses.
EAP (Employee Assistance Program): A program providing confidential counseling and referral services for employees facing personal or work-related issues.
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