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'Nvidia 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: Healthcare Provider for Nvidia: Nvidia primarily utilizes Aetna (a subsidiary of CVS Health) as its healthcare provider for employee health benefits. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases for Nvidia in 2026: In 2026, Nvidia is expected to face substantial increases in healthcare costs due to rising premiums in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, with reports indicating potential hikes exceeding 60% in several states. The expiration of enhanced federal subsidies is anticipated to dramatically elevate out-of-pocket expenses, leaving numerous employees vulnerable to substantial increases in their premium payments. Additionally, suppliers are projecting annual medical cost trends of 7% or more, further compounding the financial burden on companies like Nvidia as they navigate these challenging changes in healthcare financing. Click here to learn more
'Nvidia 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 Nvidia 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 Nvidia Professionals
For Nvidia 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 primary purpose of Nvidia's 401(k) plan?
The primary purpose of Nvidia's 401(k) plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.
How does Nvidia match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Nvidia offers a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.
What are the eligibility requirements for Nvidia's 401(k) plan?
Employees at Nvidia are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically within the first few months of employment.
Can employees at Nvidia choose how to invest their 401(k) contributions?
Yes, employees at Nvidia can choose from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.
What is the maximum contribution limit for Nvidia's 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for Nvidia's 401(k) plan is in accordance with IRS guidelines, which may change annually. Employees should check the latest limits each year.
Does Nvidia offer a Roth 401(k) option?
Yes, Nvidia provides a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to contribute after-tax dollars and enjoy tax-free withdrawals in retirement.
How often can employees at Nvidia change their 401(k) contribution amounts?
Employees at Nvidia can typically change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's specific rules and procedures.
What happens to my Nvidia 401(k) if I leave the company?
If you leave Nvidia, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to a new employer's plan, transferring it to an IRA, or cashing it out, though cashing out may incur penalties.
Does Nvidia provide financial education resources for employees regarding their 401(k)?
Yes, Nvidia offers financial education resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings and investments.
Are there any fees associated with Nvidia's 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with Nvidia'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.
Restructuring and Layoffs: Nvidia avoided layoffs in 2023 and 2024 despite financial challenges. CEO Jensen Huang reassured employees there would be no immediate layoffs but did not rule out future cuts. Company Benefit Changes: Nvidia provided raises to help employees manage inflation and focused on streamlining operations and investing in AI and metaverse projects. (Sources: Tom's Hardware, Business Insider)
Nvidia provides stock options (SOs) and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). SOs allow employees to purchase stock at a fixed price after vesting. RSUs vest over four years, with performance metrics. In 2022, Nvidia focused on performance-based RSUs. In 2023, Nvidia maintained its strategy with performance metrics. By 2024, Nvidia expanded RSU programs. Executives, management, and broader employees are eligible. [Source: Nvidia Annual Report 2022, p. 50; Nvidia Q4 2023 Report, p. 20; Nvidia Q2 2024 Report, p. 15]
Nvidia offers a comprehensive suite of healthcare benefits designed to meet the diverse needs of its employees. For 2023, Nvidia provided several health plan options including Health Savings Account (HSA) plans and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans. The HSA plans feature lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs, with Nvidia contributing up to $3,000 to the HSA to help cover these expenses. These plans include extensive coverage for preventive care, mental health services, and chronic condition management. Additionally, Nvidia offers virtual care options, providing 24/7 access to medical professionals for general health concerns, which is particularly beneficial for employees needing flexible healthcare solutions. In 2024, Nvidia continues to enhance its benefits package by expanding support for family-building and mental health services. Employees have access to infertility, adoption, and surrogacy benefits, along with comprehensive support for gender affirmation and neurodiverse family members. The company also provides a robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that offers counseling services, mental health resources, and financial advice. These enhancements reflect Nvidia’s commitment to supporting the overall well-being of its employees in the current economic and political climate, where healthcare costs and access to comprehensive care are significant concerns.
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