Why More Dover Employees Are Considering Social Security Early — And How Medicare Changes Play a Role
Healthcare Provider Update: Dover Healthcare Provider Information:
Dover typically has partnerships with a range of healthcare providers, but the core partnership often includes healthcare networks and insurance plans like UnitedHealthcare, which offers a variety of coverage options for employees. In many cases, the specifics of the healthcare providers may depend on the region and the employees' selected insurance plans.
Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026:
As the landscape of healthcare financing evolves, 2026 is poised to bring significant premium hikes for Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance plans. Insurers are anticipating increases averaging 20% nationally, with some states reporting spikes over 60%. The expiration of enhanced federal subsidies is a critical driver behind the expected surge, potentially resulting in over 75% increases in out-of-pocket costs for many enrollees. This scenario creates a daunting challenge for consumers, as they navigate shifting financial responsibilities amidst rising medical costs. Planning and proactive health management in 2025 will be essential to mitigate the effects of these impending increases.
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'Dover 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.
'Dover 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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Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover.
📞 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 is the primary purpose of Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
The primary purpose of Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by offering tax-advantaged savings options.
How can employees enroll in Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can enroll in Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does Dover match employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Dover offers a matching contribution to employee contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan, up to a certain percentage.
What types of contributions can employees make to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and may also have the option for catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older.
When can employees start contributing to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can start contributing to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan after completing the eligibility requirements, which are outlined in the plan documents.
What is the vesting schedule for Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
The vesting schedule for Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan determines how much of the company’s matching contributions employees are entitled to keep based on their years of service.
Can employees take loans against their 401(k) savings at Dover?
Yes, Dover allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
What investment options are available in Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts for Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can change their contribution amounts to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to the plan's rules and regulations.
What resources are available to help employees manage their 401(k) at Dover?
Dover provides various resources, including access to financial advisors, educational materials, and online tools to help employees manage their 401(k) savings effectively.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Dover Corporation offers both pension plans and 401(k) plans to its employees as part of its commitment to attracting and retaining talent. The company's pension plan is structured as a defined benefit plan, where employees earn benefits based on their years of service and average salary. This plan ensures that upon retirement, employees receive regular payments, which are calculated according to a set formula based on tenure and earnings. For instance, long-serving employees may receive a higher percentage of their final average salary as a pension payment (Dover Corporation) (Dover Corporation).
Additionally, Dover Corporation provides a 401(k) plan that allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary toward retirement savings. The company typically matches a percentage of employee contributions, helping employees build their retirement funds over time. The 401(k) plan is flexible, allowing employees to choose between traditional pre-tax contributions or Roth after-tax contributions, depending on their financial planning preferences
Dover has recently undertaken a significant restructuring initiative aimed at optimizing its operational efficiency. In 2023, the company announced a series of layoffs as part of a broader strategy to streamline its operations and reduce costs. This move reflects a response to the current economic climate and aims to position Dover more competitively in a challenging market. It’s crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about such changes due to the ongoing economic uncertainties, which impact investment strategies, tax implications, and overall business performance
Dover Corporation provides stock options and RSUs as part of its employee compensation package. For 2022, employees were offered stock options and RSUs based on performance and tenure. In 2023 and 2024, Dover Corporation continued this practice, with updated plans and eligibility criteria.
1. Company’s Official Website
Dover Corporation Official Website: Check their careers or benefits section for details on health benefits.
URL: Dover Corporation Careers
2. Reliable Business and News Websites
Glassdoor: Employee reviews often include information on benefits.
URL: Glassdoor - Dover Corporation
Indeed: Look for employee reviews and benefit descriptions.
URL: Indeed - Dover Corporation
LinkedIn: Company profile and posts may have updates on employee benefits.
URL: LinkedIn - Dover Corporation
Yahoo Finance: Search for recent news articles that might include employee benefits information.
URL: Yahoo Finance - Dover Corporation
Reuters: Look for news or press releases related to employee benefits.
URL: Reuters - Dover Corporation
3. Industry and Financial Reports
S&P Global: Detailed financial reports might include benefits information.
URL: S&P Global - Dover Corporation
Bloomberg: Check for company-specific reports and news.
URL: Bloomberg - Dover Corporation
MarketWatch: Recent company news and benefits updates.
URL: MarketWatch - Dover Corporation
4. Healthcare News Websites
Healthcare Dive: Industry-specific updates that might affect Dover’s health benefits.
URL: Healthcare Dive
Modern Healthcare: Check for updates on benefits and healthcare policies.
URL: Modern Healthcare
5. Government and Regulatory Websites
U.S. Department of Labor: Benefits-related compliance information.
URL: DOL - Employee Benefits
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services: Look for any relevant updates affecting corporate health benefits.
URL: CMS
Summary of Findings
Healthcare-Related Terms and Acronyms: Common terms might include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), HSA (Health Savings Account), and EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
Recent Employee Healthcare News: Look for updates about changes in health plans, new benefits offerings, or cost adjustments affecting Dover employees.
For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Dover at 3005 Highland Pkwy, Suite 200 Downers Grove, IL 60515; or by calling them at (630) 541-1540.
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