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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for McCormick: McCormick & Company primarily provides its employees with health insurance through various insurers, including a selection of major national providers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, and Cigna. These partnerships are aimed at offering comprehensive healthcare coverage tailored to the needs of their workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: In 2026, McCormick may face significant increases in healthcare costs due to escalating premiums in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Experts anticipate that some states will see premium hikes surpassing 60%, driven by a combination of rising medical costs, the potential loss of enhanced federal premium subsidies, and aggressive rate actions from leading insurers. If these trends continue unmitigated, many employees could experience a staggering rise in their out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, making it crucial for McCormick to strategize on how to manage these impending challenges effectively. Click here to learn more

'McCormick 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.

'McCormick 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 McCormick 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 McCormick Professionals

For McCormick 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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Articles you may find interesting:

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 McCormick's 401(k) plan?

McCormick's 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or after-tax basis.

How can I enroll in McCormick's 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in McCormick's 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the employee benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does McCormick match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

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

What is the vesting schedule for McCormick's 401(k) matching contributions?

McCormick has a vesting schedule that outlines how long employees must work at the company to fully own the matching contributions made to their 401(k) accounts.

Can I change my contribution percentage to McCormick's 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to McCormick's 401(k) plan at any time, typically through the employee benefits portal.

What investment options are available in McCormick's 401(k) plan?

McCormick's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

How often can I make changes to my investments in McCormick's 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically make changes to their investment allocations in McCormick's 401(k) plan on a quarterly basis or as specified in the plan documents.

Is there a loan option available in McCormick's 401(k) plan?

Yes, McCormick's 401(k) plan may allow employees to take loans against their account balance, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What happens to my 401(k) plan if I leave McCormick?

If you leave McCormick, you have several options for your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to an IRA or a new employer's plan, cashing it out, or leaving it in the McCormick plan if permitted.

Are there any fees associated with McCormick's 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative and investment fees associated with McCormick's 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

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

McCormick's primary pension plan is the "McCormick & Company, Inc. Pension Plan." Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees generally need a minimum of 5 years of service to qualify for benefits. The typical age qualification for full benefits is 65, although early retirement options may be available with reduced benefits. Pension Formula: The pension formula is generally based on years of service and average salary during the highest earning years, though specific formulas may vary by plan specifics and employee tenure. McCormick offers a 401(k) plan named the "McCormick & Company, Inc. 401(k) Plan." Qualifications for 401(k) Plan: Eligibility is typically available to employees after completing 30 days of service. Employees can contribute a portion of their salary to the 401(k) plan and may receive company match contributions based on the plan's terms.

Layoffs and Restructuring: In early 2024, McCormick announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This includes the elimination of approximately 1,000 jobs globally, which represents around 5% of its workforce. The company cited the need to adapt to changing market conditions and enhance its competitiveness in the industry. This move is crucial to monitor due to its impact on employees and the broader implications for the food industry. The current economic climate, characterized by inflation and shifting consumer behavior, underscores the importance of understanding such corporate strategies and their long-term effects. Company Benefits and 401k Changes: Alongside the layoffs, McCormick is revising its employee benefits package, including adjustments to its 401k matching contributions. The company is reducing its 401k match from 6% to 4% and modifying healthcare benefits to reduce costs. These changes are part of a broader effort to control expenses amid economic uncertainty. It is essential to stay informed about these developments, as they reflect broader trends in corporate benefits adjustments driven by the current economic, investment, and tax environment. Understanding these changes can help employees better prepare for their financial futures.

McCormick & Company offers stock options and RSUs as part of their compensation package. For 2022, eligible employees include senior executives and other high-level employees based on their performance and role. McCormick uses acronyms like SOP (Stock Option Plan) and RSU (Restricted Stock Unit) in their documentation.

Healthcare Plans: McCormick offers a variety of healthcare plans including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They have multiple plan options to cater to different needs, such as PPO and HMO plans. Benefits Overview: McCormick provides comprehensive coverage with preventive care, prescription drug benefits, and wellness programs. They also have a telemedicine option and employee assistance programs (EAP). Recent Updates: The company has been updating its benefits to include more mental health resources and virtual care services.