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'Topgolf Callaway Brands 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 Topgolf Callaway Brands Topgolf Callaway Brands partners primarily with UHC (UnitedHealth Group) for employee healthcare coverage. As one of the major players in the insurance market, UHC provides various healthcare plans to Topgolf employees, giving them access to a wide range of medical services and resources. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 for Topgolf Callaway Brands As we approach 2026, Topgolf Callaway Brands employees may face significant increases in healthcare costs driven by a combination of factors. Premiums in the ACA marketplace are projected to rise sharply, with some states seeing hikes exceeding 60%. If enhanced federal subsidies are not renewed, 92% of policyholders could potentially see their out-of-pocket premiums surge by over 75%. Consequently, Topgolf employees should prepare for these financial strains by reviewing their health benefits and exploring strategies to mitigate increased expenses effectively. Click here to learn more
'Topgolf Callaway Brands 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 Topgolf Callaway Brands 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 Topgolf Callaway Brands Professionals
For Topgolf Callaway Brands 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 Topgolf Callaway Brands offer to its employees?
Topgolf Callaway Brands offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
How can employees of Topgolf Callaway Brands enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of Topgolf Callaway Brands can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Is there a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan at Topgolf Callaway Brands?
Yes, Topgolf Callaway Brands provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.
What is the minimum contribution percentage required for employees at Topgolf Callaway Brands to receive the company match?
Employees at Topgolf Callaway Brands typically need to contribute at least 3% of their salary to qualify for the company match.
Can employees of Topgolf Callaway Brands choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?
Yes, employees of Topgolf Callaway Brands can select from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions.
What is the vesting schedule for the company match in the 401(k) plan at Topgolf Callaway Brands?
The vesting schedule for the company match at Topgolf Callaway Brands generally follows a standard schedule, which may vary based on tenure.
Are there any fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Topgolf Callaway Brands?
Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Topgolf Callaway Brands, which are disclosed in the plan documents.
How often can employees at Topgolf Callaway Brands change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan?
Employees at Topgolf Callaway Brands can typically change their contribution amounts on a quarterly basis.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Topgolf Callaway Brands?
If an employee leaves Topgolf Callaway Brands, they have several options for their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account or cashing it out.
Does Topgolf Callaway Brands offer educational resources about the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Topgolf Callaway Brands provides educational resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) plan options.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Topgolf Callaway Brands offers a 401(k) plan as part of its retirement benefits for employees. The plan allows eligible employees to contribute a percentage of their income into a tax-advantaged retirement account. For the years 2022, 2023, and 2024, Topgolf Callaway Brands maintained its defined contribution plan in alignment with IRS limits, which included annual contribution limits of $20,500 in 2022, $22,500 in 2023, and $23,000 in 2024, with catch-up contributions of $6,500 for those over 50 in 2022 and 2023, and $7,500 in 2024 (Wikipedia) (Pension Rights Center).
The company uses a 401(k) plan to attract and retain employees, offering matching contributions up to a certain percentage, typically around 4%, although exact figures may vary depending on the employee's role and location. Eligible employees can begin contributing to their 401(k) plan upon hire or after a short waiting period, with contributions vesting over a set number of years.
Topgolf Callaway Brands has announced multiple strategic reviews in 2023-2024, including the consideration of spinning off Topgolf to optimize the company's structure and increase shareholder value. In 2023, the company performed solidly in terms of revenue, reporting strong performance in its golf equipment segment and delivering over $4.28 billion in revenue. However, the company is actively considering cost-saving measures, including operational restructuring, that could lead to potential layoffs and benefit adjustments. Additionally, Topgolf Callaway Brands has been adjusting its pension and 401(k) plans, focusing on competitive retirement savings offerings to retain key talent in a challenging economic environment (Topgolf Callaway Brands) .
Topgolf Callaway Brands (MODG) offers stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its employee compensation strategy. In 2022, the company granted stock options primarily to senior executives and long-term employees. These stock options were issued under the MODG incentive program, aligning compensation with company performance (Topgolf Callaway Brands). In 2023, RSUs were expanded across the company to include mid-level managers, allowing broader employee participation in equity ownership. This helps align employee incentives with the company’s success (MyGolfSpy). The 2024 plan introduced additional vesting options to retain talent over the long term, targeting specific milestones within the company (MarketBeat).
Topgolf Callaway Brands provides a range of health benefits to its employees, focusing on comprehensive insurance packages, wellness programs, and preventive care. Specific healthcare-related terms and acronyms frequently associated with their offerings include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HSA (Health Savings Account), and EAP (Employee Assistance Program). Additionally, they offer dental, vision, and mental health services.
In 2023 and 2024, Topgolf Callaway Brands emphasized wellness initiatives, including mental health support, reflecting the broader trend in corporate healthcare strategies to integrate wellness with traditional health insurance. The company also made notable adjustments to its healthcare plans, particularly focusing on affordability and accessibility, by expanding telehealth services and preventive care benefits.
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