Why More Diamondback Energy Employees Are Considering Social Security Early — And How Medicare Changes Play a Role
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Diamondback Energy
Diamondback Energy partners with UnitedHealthcare as its healthcare provider. This relationship is significant as UnitedHealthcare is one of the largest health insurers in the United States, offering a comprehensive range of plans that cater to the diverse needs of Diamondback's workforce.
Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026
In 2026, the healthcare landscape is anticipated to face considerable challenges, particularly for Diamondback Energy and its employees. With health insurance premiums for ACA marketplace plans projected to rise sharply-potentially by over 75% for many enrollees-the impact of expiring federal premium subsidies will be profoundly felt. This scenario is compounded by rising medical costs, with forecasts suggesting that many states may experience increases as steep as 66%, significantly affecting overall healthcare affordability for Diamondback's workforce. As these changes unfold, it is crucial for companies like Diamondback Energy to strategize on managing healthcare-related expenses effectively to support their employees amidst a fluctuating market.
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'Diamondback Energy 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.
'Diamondback Energy 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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Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy.
📞 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 type of retirement plan does Diamondback Energy offer?
Diamondback Energy offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.
Is there a company match for contributions to the 401(k) plan at Diamondback Energy?
Yes, Diamondback Energy provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, enhancing your retirement savings.
How can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Diamondback Energy?
Employees can enroll in the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What is the eligibility requirement to participate in Diamondback Energy's 401(k) plan?
Most employees at Diamondback Energy are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service.
What investment options are available in Diamondback Energy's 401(k) plan?
Diamondback Energy's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.
Can I change my contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at Diamondback Energy?
Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan at any time, subject to certain guidelines.
Does Diamondback Energy offer loans against the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Diamondback Energy allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) plan balance, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
How often can I change my investment allocations in the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan?
Employees can change their investment allocations in the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan as frequently as they wish, typically through the plan’s online portal.
What happens to my 401(k) if I leave Diamondback Energy?
If you leave Diamondback Energy, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Diamondback plan if eligible.
Are there any fees associated with the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with the Diamondback Energy 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.
For Diamondback Energy, the company offers a 401(k) plan under the name "Diamondback Energy 401(k) Plan" with eligibility based on service and age requirements that vary slightly depending on employee classification. The company uses industry-specific terminology and acronyms, including "FANG" as its stock symbol and commonly referring to its operations as part of the Permian Basin. For its pension plan offerings, while there is no traditional defined benefit pension available, Diamondback provides substantial retirement contributions through its 401(k) plan, matching employee contributions up to 6% of salary (Diamondback Energy) (Diamondback Energy).
Regarding the years of service and age qualification, employees typically become eligible for Diamondback Energy’s 401(k) match after completing one year of service. The matching contributions are vested gradually, with full vesting occurring after 5 years of service. While detailed documentation does not explicitly list a traditional pension formula, the 401(k) match is a significant part of their retirement strategy
Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Diamondback Energy announced a restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. The plan included a reduction of 5% in workforce to align with the company's strategic goals and to enhance operational efficiency. This restructuring was influenced by fluctuating oil prices and the need to adapt to a more competitive market. Given the current economic environment, understanding these changes is crucial for investors and employees to make informed decisions.
In 2022, Diamondback Energy provided stock options and RSUs to senior executives and key employees. The RSUs typically vest over a four-year period. Eligibility was determined based on performance and tenure.
Company Official Website: For the most direct and accurate information on Diamondback Energy's health benefits.
Industry News Sources: Reputable news outlets that cover employee benefits and changes in healthcare policies within the industry.
Employment and Benefits Websites: Sites like Glassdoor, Indeed, or LinkedIn for employee reviews and company benefit details.
Company Reports: Annual reports or benefits summaries released by Diamondback Energy.
Healthcare and Insurance Providers: Websites of insurance providers that partner with Diamondback Energy, if available.
Additional Articles
Check Out Articles for Diamondback Energy employees
For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Diamondback Energy at 500 West Texas Ave, Suite 1200 Midland, TX 79701; or by calling them at (432) 221-7400.
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