Why More DexCom Employees Are Considering Social Security Early — And How Medicare Changes Play a Role
Healthcare Provider Update: DexCom offers its employees a comprehensive health insurance package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage. Employees benefit from Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) with company contributions, telemedicine access, and mental health support. Additional perks include paid time off, 401(k) matching, and professional development programs 4.
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'DexCom employees weighing when to file for Social Security should consider both current health care costs and long-term income needs, so they can stay adaptable as retirement unfolds.' — Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
'DexCom employees can benefit from thoughtfully coordinating Social Security timing with health care expenses so their retirement income stays aligned with their evolving needs over time.' — Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
In this article, we will discuss:
How Social Security filing age affects retirement income.
How Medicare expenses factor into when retirees claim benefits.
Why emotional concerns are shifting filing behavior for many Americans.
Written by Wealth Enhancement advisors Kevin Landis, CPA and Wesley Boudreaux
Advisors in the retirement-income space have long suggested that retirees consider delaying filing for Social Security benefits. For those with a full retirement age (FRA) of 67, waiting until age 70 can result in monthly payments that are around 24% higher.
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And for those with an FRA of 66, the increase if one waits until age 70 is closer to 32%.
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DexCom employees nearing retirement often hear this same message.
However, new national data indicates a growing number of Americans plan to claim Social Security before age 70. Cost pressures and health care related issues are major influences in this trend.
The Retirees’ Reality
Today’s retirees face a very different environment than those in past decades, including less access to traditional pensions, rising health care costs, and mounting everyday living expenses. In the private sector, only about 15% of workers still have access to defined benefit pensions,
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affecting many households and DexCom employees.
According to retirement consultant Wesley Boudreaux, 'most retirees are not choosing to claim early for the sake of it.” Instead, rising medical and living costs are driving earlier benefit decisions because of cash flow pressures.
One major factor? Health care. Nearly 39% of out-of-pocket health care spending by Medicare beneficiaries was equivalent to Social Security payments received, on average, in 2022.
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Medicare Advantage: A Key Planning Factor
Additionally, shifts in Medicare Advantage plans have left many retirees unsure about upcoming costs. Benefit structures can vary significantly by year or by region, causing cost surprises that DexCom workers and their families may need to plan for.
“We are already seeing clients paying more for health care than expected,” said Kevin Landis, CPA. “When medical expenses rise, Social Security often becomes the first lever people pull to handle that burden.”
This is why coordinating Social Security filing decisions with Medicare coverage choices remains important, particularly when plans change annually.
“This is the intersection of Social Security and health care planning,” Landis adds. “Changes in one can influence the other.”
Emotional Considerations Also Matter
Money matters aren’t the only reason retirees claim earlier. Concerns about the future of Social Security have caused many to look for the emotional comfort of taking benefits sooner, including some DexCom workers preparing for retirement.
While benefits are expected to continue—even if trust fund reserves decline in the 2030s—worries about future payouts can play a role.
“It’s not just about math,” Boudreaux explains. “People want control and stability in retirement, even if that means receiving less over time.”
Finding the Right Approach for You
Whether filing early is a good fit depends a lot on health, cash flow needs, and longer-term retirement goals. Thoughtful planning helps maintain flexibility, rather than driving you to respond under pressure.
“The best approach balances today’s needs with what lies ahead,” Landis says. “And that begins with understanding how Medicare and Social Security interact.”
Need Help Reviewing Your Options?
The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement, helps individuals evaluate Medicare electives, analyze Social Security filing alternatives, and design retirement income strategies based on personal goals—including guidance tailored to those employed by DexCom.
📞 Call (800) 900-5867 before your next enrollment period to schedule a Social Security & Health Care Review.
Work toward confidence in your long-term retirement income decisions.
About the Authors
Wesley Boudreaux and Kevin Landis, CPA, provide retirement income and tax planning guidance through Wealth Enhancement, helping people make informed choices about Social Security, Medicare, and financial well-being.
1. Social Security Administration.
When to Start Receiving Retirement Benefits: Publication No. 05-10147
. May 2024. U.S. Government Publishing Office, Washington D.C.
2. Topoleski, John J., Elizabeth A. Myers, and Sylvia L. Bryan.
Worker Participation in Employer-Sponsored Pensions: Data in Brief and Recent Trends (R43439)
. Congressional Research Service, 18 Sept. 2024.
3. Medicare Payment Advisory Commission.
Report to the Congress: Medicare Payment Policy – Chapter 11: The Medicare Advantage Program: Status Report
. Mar. 2025, medpac.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Mar25_Ch11_MedPAC_Report_To_Congress_SEC.pdf.
4. Board of Trustees, Social Security.
2025 Annual Report of the Board of Trustees of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance and Federal Disability Insurance Trust Funds
. 30 June 2025. U.S. Government Publishing Office, Washington D.C.
What retirement savings options does DexCom offer to its employees?
DexCom offers a 401(k) savings plan that allows employees to save for retirement through pre-tax and Roth contributions.
Does DexCom match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, DexCom provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, helping employees to maximize their retirement savings.
How can employees at DexCom enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees at DexCom can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What is the vesting schedule for DexCom's 401(k) matching contributions?
DexCom has a vesting schedule that typically requires employees to complete a certain number of years of service before they fully own the matching contributions.
Can DexCom employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, DexCom allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
What investment options are available in the DexCom 401(k) plan?
The DexCom 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.
Is there a minimum contribution requirement for the DexCom 401(k) plan?
Yes, DexCom has a minimum contribution requirement for employees who wish to participate in the 401(k) plan, which is outlined in the plan documents.
How often can DexCom employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?
DexCom employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at specified intervals, typically during open enrollment or at any time as allowed by the plan.
What happens to my DexCom 401(k) if I leave the company?
If you leave DexCom, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account or leaving it in the DexCom plan, subject to certain conditions.
Are there any fees associated with the DexCom 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be fees associated with the DexCom 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents and can vary based on investment choices.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
DexCom offers a 401(k) plan but does not currently provide a defined pension plan for its employees. The DexCom 401(k) plan allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary, and the company matches a percentage of these contributions. As of 2022, the plan's total retirement assets were over $234 million, with 5,430 participants. The plan is accessible to all full-time employees aged 21 and over, with the option to start contributing immediately upon employment.
For specific terminology and detailed plan descriptions, DexCom uses standard retirement-related terms like "vesting," "deferral," and "matching contributions." The plan focuses on providing long-term savings opportunities, emphasizing employee participation and the benefits of employer matching.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, DexCom announced a restructuring plan aimed at optimizing operations and reducing costs. The company is expected to lay off approximately 5% of its workforce as part of this initiative. This move is a strategic response to the current economic uncertainties and is designed to enhance efficiency and profitability amidst fluctuating market conditions. The importance of addressing this news is heightened by the current economic environment, which is marked by inflationary pressures and changing investment dynamics. Understanding such developments is crucial for assessing the potential impact on employee benefits and job security.
Company Benefits and Pension Changes: Alongside the restructuring, DexCom has also made adjustments to its benefits and pension plans. The company has modified its 401(k) match policy, reducing the employer contribution rate from 5% to 3%. Additionally, there have been changes to the pension plan, including a freeze on new pension accruals. These changes reflect broader trends in the industry where companies are reassessing their benefits structures in response to financial pressures. It is essential to monitor these developments as they affect employee retirement planning and long-term financial stability, especially in light of current tax and investment environments.
DexCom provided stock options to executives and key employees, with a four-year vesting schedule. RSUs were granted to align interests with shareholders, typically vesting over three years.
DexCom Careers Page: DexCom's official careers page provides a detailed overview of their employee benefits, including health insurance plans, wellness programs, and other related benefits.
Health Insurance Plans and Benefits:
Medical Insurance: DexCom offers various medical plans, including PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) and HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) options. Coverage often includes preventive care, emergency services, and specialist visits.
Dental and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive dental and vision insurance plans are typically provided, covering routine check-ups, major dental work, and vision correction.
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Employees can use HSAs or FSAs to manage out-of-pocket expenses with tax advantages.
Telehealth Services: Access to virtual consultations and telemedicine is commonly available.
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