Healthcare Provider Update: Polaris is associated with UnitedHealthcare as its primary healthcare provider. For Polaris employees, the anticipated spike in healthcare costs in 2026 is concerning. With recent projections indicating that Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums could surge by as much as 66% in certain states, many employees may face a substantial financial burden due to the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies and ongoing medical cost inflation. This means that individuals reliant on ACA marketplace plans could see their out-of-pocket expenses increase dramatically, complicating budgeting for healthcare needs in the upcoming year. It's crucial for these employees to take proactive measures to navigate the financial landscape they anticipate facing in 2026. Click here to learn more
As an employee of Polaris you may find it interesting to know, one landmark study found that credit-based insurance scores are used by about 95 percent of all auto and home insurers in calculating the cost of insurance to individuals.
While the vast majority of insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores to help determine the price of insurance, it is banned in the states of Massachusetts, Hawaii, and California. Some states only allow it as a factor for property insurance like auto and homeowners insurance. Other states allow it to be used with any type of insurance.
Several Factors
Generally, an insurance company will use a credit-based insurance score as just one factor in its underwriting process. We'd also like to remind our Polaris clients that other factors may be considered, depending on the type of insurance. For example, with auto insurance, other factors could include your zip code, the age of the drivers, the make, model and age of the car, and the number of miles you drive annually.
The use of credit scores to determine insurance rates is rooted in research that has shown individuals with lower credit scores had higher car insurance losses and higher claims payouts.
You can ask your insurance company if a credit-based insurance score was used to underwrite and rate your policy, and in which risk category you were placed.
For Polaris employees who want to improve their credit-based insurance score, you should consider taking the same steps you would to improve your credit rating: make timely debt payments, clear up past disputes and keep credit card balances low.
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1. Predictive Analytics: Achieving Greater Decision Accuracy, Better Risk Segmentation, and Greater Profitability, Fair Isaac Corporation, 2012 (most recent statistics available).
What is the Polaris 401(k) plan?
The Polaris 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 Roth basis.
How can I enroll in the Polaris 401(k) plan?
You can enroll in the Polaris 401(k) plan by accessing the employee benefits portal or contacting the HR department for assistance with the enrollment process.
What is the employer match for the Polaris 401(k) plan?
Polaris offers a competitive employer match for the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of your contributions up to a certain limit. Please refer to the benefits guide for specific details.
Can I change my contribution rate to the Polaris 401(k) plan?
Yes, you can change your contribution rate to the Polaris 401(k) plan at any time through the employee benefits portal or by contacting HR.
What investment options are available in the Polaris 401(k) plan?
The Polaris 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to help you diversify your portfolio.
When can I start withdrawing from my Polaris 401(k) plan?
You can start withdrawing from your Polaris 401(k) plan without penalty after reaching the age of 59½, but there are also options for hardship withdrawals under certain circumstances.
Does Polaris offer a Roth 401(k) option?
Yes, Polaris offers a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to make after-tax contributions that can grow tax-free.
How often can I make changes to my investments in the Polaris 401(k) plan?
You can typically make changes to your investment allocations in the Polaris 401(k) plan on a regular basis, often daily, depending on the plan's rules.
What happens to my Polaris 401(k) if I leave the company?
If you leave Polaris, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash it out (which may incur taxes and penalties), or leave it in the Polaris plan if allowed.
Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Polaris 401(k) plan?
Yes, Polaris has a vesting schedule for the employer match, meaning you will need to work for the company for a certain period before you fully own the matched funds.