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

Waste Management Employees: Navigating the Essentials of Medicare Advantage Plans for Your Retirement Health Needs

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Waste Management Waste Management, Inc., a leading provider of waste collection, disposal, and recycling services in North America, partners with Cigna Healthcare to provide healthcare benefits to its employees. Cigna offers a range of health insurance plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, tailored to meet the needs of Waste Management's diverse workforce. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, Waste Management and its employees may face significant healthcare cost increases due to substantial projected hikes in health insurance premiums. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace is anticipating an average increase of over 20%, with certain states seeing hikes surpassing 60% as a result of rising medical costs and the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies. This combination of factors could lead to out-of-pocket premium costs soaring by more than 75% for many employees, placing additional financial strain on both the company and its workforce during the upcoming year. Click here to learn more

Medicare Advantage, sometimes known as “Part C,” is something of a catch-all choice for Waste Management employees who are ready to sign up for Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers in conjunction with the Medicare program and can provide you with additional health insurance coverage.

What’s in them?
In addition to signing up for Medicare Part A (hospital stays) and Part B (medical coverage), Medicare Advantage plans offer their subscribers extra features. This frequently, but not always, includes the Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. In some cases, Medicare Advantage plans offer coverage for areas not normally offered within regular Medicare plans. This can include dental, hearing, and vision insurance.

What are the rules?
Medicare pays for a fixed amount of your health care to Waste Management offering your Medicare Advantage (MA) plan. Beyond that, each MA plan requires different out-of-pocket fees. Those fees can vary from plan to plan. Depending on your plan, you may have different rules you need to follow when seeking a medical referral to get treatment from a specialist or if you are seeking non-urgent care (even from health care providers within the plan). It’s also important to remember that rules, requirements, and features may change from year to year. It will be important to make sure that those changes line up with any treatment that you need.

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What about my prescriptions?
While most MA plans offer Part D coverage for prescription drugs, some don’t. One example would be Medicare Medical Savings Account plans. In cases where the plan can’t or chooses not to offer prescription drug coverage, you may have the ability to join a separate Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, depending on the type of plan you enroll in. You will likely have a number of questions and concerns as you examine your options for Medicare Advantage plans. Discuss these with a trusted financial professional who can help you make choices that may best fit your lifestyle.

1. Medicare.gov, 2022

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Waste Management?

The 401(k) plan at Waste Management is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their earnings on a tax-deferred basis.

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

Employees can enroll in Waste Management's 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Waste Management provide a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Waste Management offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees save more for retirement.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Waste Management's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Waste Management's 401(k) plan is in line with IRS regulations, which may change annually. Employees should refer to the latest IRS guidelines for current limits.

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

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to Waste Management's 401(k) plan at any time by accessing their account through the HR portal.

When can I start withdrawing funds from my Waste Management 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically start withdrawing funds from their Waste Management 401(k) plan at age 59½, but specific conditions may apply.

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

Waste Management'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.

Is there a vesting schedule for Waste Management's 401(k) company match?

Yes, Waste Management has a vesting schedule for the company match, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

How can I access my Waste Management 401(k) account?

Employees can access their Waste Management 401(k) account online through the designated retirement plan website or mobile app.

What happens to my Waste Management 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave Waste Management, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Waste Management plan if permitted.