'Lincoln Electric Holdings 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: Lincoln Electric Holdings utilizes the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace for its healthcare provision, catering primarily to its employees and retirees through various health insurance plans. As we approach 2026, Lincoln Electric Holdings employees are likely to face significant increases in healthcare costs. With the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies, many individuals could see their out-of-pocket ACA premiums surge by over 75%, according to industry projections. This scenario, compounded by overall rising medical expenses, presents a perfect storm for employees needing to navigate their healthcare finances more strategically in light of these anticipated changes. Click here to learn more
'Lincoln Electric Holdings 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 Lincoln Electric Holdings 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 Lincoln Electric Holdings Professionals
For Lincoln Electric Holdings 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 Lincoln Electric Holdings offer?
Lincoln Electric Holdings offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan for its employees.
Does Lincoln Electric Holdings match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Lincoln Electric Holdings provides a matching contribution to employee contributions made to the 401(k) plan.
What is the maximum contribution limit for employees in the Lincoln Electric Holdings 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for employees in the Lincoln Electric Holdings 401(k) plan is determined by IRS regulations, which may change annually.
Can employees of Lincoln Electric Holdings choose between different investment options in their 401(k) plan?
Yes, employees of Lincoln Electric Holdings can choose from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan.
When can employees of Lincoln Electric Holdings start participating in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of Lincoln Electric Holdings can typically start participating in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, as outlined in the plan documents.
Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Lincoln Electric Holdings 401(k) plan?
Yes, Lincoln Electric Holdings has a vesting schedule for employer matching contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.
How can Lincoln Electric Holdings employees access their 401(k) account information?
Lincoln Electric Holdings employees can access their 401(k) account information online through the plan's designated website or by contacting the plan administrator.
Are loans available from the Lincoln Electric Holdings 401(k) plan?
Yes, Lincoln Electric Holdings may allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) balances, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Lincoln Electric Holdings?
If an employee leaves Lincoln Electric Holdings, they have several options regarding their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Lincoln Electric Holdings plan if eligible.
Does Lincoln Electric Holdings offer any financial education resources for 401(k) participants?
Yes, Lincoln Electric Holdings provides financial education resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Lincoln Electric Holdings offers a comprehensive employee retirement program that includes a 401(k) plan known as the "Lincoln Electric Company Employee Savings Plan." This plan allows eligible employees to save for retirement through tax-deferred contributions. Additionally, Lincoln Electric provides a profit-sharing component tied to both company and individual performance.
For employees hired before January 1, 2006, Lincoln Electric offers a pension program known as "The Lincoln Electric Company Retirement Annuity Program (RAP)." This pension plan is a defined benefit plan where the company contributes on behalf of its employees. Years of service and age requirements vary depending on the specific plan provisions.
Employees qualify for the 401(k) plan based on their employment status and tenure, with the pension formula structured around an average final pay calculation.
Lincoln Electric Holdings reported strong financial performance through 2023, with significant growth in net sales and income across multiple quarters. Despite challenges, the company avoided layoffs, maintaining a longstanding commitment to workforce stability. The company continues to experience growth, with no major layoffs reported since the 1950s, highlighting its resilience in a challenging economy (Lincoln Electric) (Lincoln Electric).
Given the current economic environment, it is essential to recognize Lincoln Electric’s strategies for maintaining employee stability while navigating complex global challenges, including tax changes, regulatory adjustments, and market uncertainties. These elements make it crucial to address these developments as they impact employee benefits and future financial planning for stakeholders.
Lincoln Electric Holdings offered stock options to key executives in 2022, 2023, and 2024. RSUs were also offered to mid-level managers, incentivizing long-term performance and loyalty. Dividend equivalents accrued on vested RSUs during these years. Stock options and RSUs were primarily granted to managerial and executive-level employees, making them accessible to those with significant roles in the company’s operations.
Lincoln Electric Holdings has consistently prioritized healthcare for its employees, offering comprehensive benefits that reflect both their commitment to employee well-being and the evolving healthcare landscape. In 2022, Lincoln Electric introduced enhancements to their Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), allowing employees to benefit from tax-advantaged medical savings. The company emphasizes flexibility, offering multiple health plans tailored to meet diverse needs. Key healthcare terms include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans and HRA (Health Reimbursement Arrangement), which support the company’s push toward preventive care and cost-efficient medical coverage (Lincoln Electric) (Lincoln Electric). This focus is essential given the economic uncertainties and rising healthcare costs in recent years.
In addition to their robust offerings, Lincoln Electric has adjusted its approach to healthcare in response to broader economic and political trends. The company's employee healthcare news in 2023 highlighted adjustments to premiums and deductible structures, reflecting rising inflation and political discussions around healthcare reform (Home Page) (Lincoln Electric). Addressing these changes is crucial for the company to remain competitive while ensuring employees maintain access to essential care. These shifts in Lincoln Electric's benefits package underscore the importance of adapting healthcare strategies in light of fluctuating tax laws and market conditions.
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