Why More GameStop Employees Are Considering Social Security Early — And How Medicare Changes Play a Role
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for GameStop
GameStop utilizes a range of healthcare providers, largely dependent on the insurance options available through their employee benefits program. The leading provider for GameStop's health insurance plans is typically UnitedHealthcare, which offers coverage options under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) framework. This partnership allows GameStop employees and their families to access a variety of health services in their locale.
Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026
As we approach 2026, healthcare costs are projected to rise significantly, influenced by a confluence of factors that may impact employees at companies like GameStop. Insurance premiums for Affordable Care Act marketplace plans are expected to soar, with some states seeing increases surpassing 60%. The looming expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies could push out-of-pocket expenses for most enrollees up more than 75%, making the financial landscape for healthcare increasingly daunting. Coupled with rising medical costs attributed to both inflation in healthcare services and the proliferation of high-priced drugs, employees may face steeper healthcare bills if proactive measures are not taken to mitigate these costs before the changes take effect.
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'GameStop 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.
'GameStop 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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GameStop 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 GameStop 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 GameStop 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 GameStop 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 GameStop.
📞 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 GameStop's 401(k) plan?
The primary purpose of GameStop's 401(k) plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary to a tax-advantaged account.
How can GameStop employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?
GameStop employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does GameStop offer a company match for 401(k) contributions?
Yes, GameStop offers a company match for 401(k) contributions, which helps employees grow their retirement savings.
What types of investment options are available in GameStop's 401(k) plan?
GameStop's 401(k) plan typically offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.
When can GameStop employees start contributing to their 401(k) plan?
GameStop employees can start contributing to their 401(k) plan after they have completed the eligibility requirements set by the company.
Is there a minimum contribution requirement for GameStop's 401(k) plan?
Yes, GameStop may have a minimum contribution requirement, which employees should check in the plan documents or with HR.
Can GameStop employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, GameStop allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
What happens to GameStop employees' 401(k) accounts if they leave the company?
If GameStop employees leave the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) account to a new employer's plan, an IRA, or cash out their balance, subject to taxes and penalties.
Are there any fees associated with GameStop's 401(k) plan?
Yes, GameStop's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees, investment fees, and other costs that employees should review in the plan documents.
How often can GameStop employees change their contribution amounts?
GameStop employees can typically change their contribution amounts during open enrollment periods or at designated times throughout the year.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
GameStop provides its employees with both a 401(k) plan and a defined contribution pension plan. These retirement benefits are designed to help employees secure a steady income after their career. GameStop's 401(k) plan, known as the GameStop Corp. Employees' Savings Plan, allows employees to contribute a portion of their earnings to their retirement savings. GameStop offers matching contributions to encourage employee participation, typically matching 100% for the first 3% contributed and 50% for the next 2%, though specifics may vary slightly by year.
For the years 2022, 2023, and 2024, the contribution limits set by the IRS have increased, with employees allowed to contribute up to $22,500 in 2023 and $23,000 in 2024. Catch-up contributions for those aged 50 and older are an additional $7,500 annually. This plan provides flexible investment options and allows for rollover of funds into new plans if employees leave the company (Smart 40K Plus) (PayScale).
GameStop's defined contribution pension plan works by allowing the company to make contributions to individual employee accounts, which are invested in a selection of funds chosen by the employee. Over time, this fund grows based on contributions and market performance. The plan does not specify a fixed benefit at retirement; instead, the payout depends on the investment performance. In 2022, the average account value for employees participating in the GameStop Corp. Employees' Savings Plan was $11,942
Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, GameStop announced a major restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This included the closure of several underperforming stores and a significant reduction in workforce. The company cited the need to adapt to changing retail environments and improve profitability as key reasons for these actions. Analysts point out that GameStop’s move is part of a broader trend of retailers adjusting their business models in response to economic uncertainties and shifts in consumer behavior. This restructuring is particularly relevant given the current economic climate, which is marked by inflation and shifts in consumer spending patterns.
2022: RSUs were granted to senior management and high-potential employees to retain top talent and incentivize performance. Vesting periods typically ranged from one to four years. Source: GameStop 2022 Annual Report, Page 46.
2023: GameStop adjusted its RSU program to reflect changes in executive compensation practices and market conditions. RSUs were granted with performance-based vesting conditions. Source: GameStop 2023 Proxy Statement, Page 35.
2024: The RSU program for 2024 includes modifications to align with strategic goals and market trends, with enhanced focus on performance metrics. Eligibility remains concentrated on key personnel and executives. Source: GameStop 2024 SEC Filing, Page 53.
Specific Company Stock Options and RSUs:
Visit GameStop’s official website and look for their “Careers” or “Benefits” section.
Check if they have any recent press releases or updates regarding employee health benefits.
Employee Review Websites:
Glassdoor: Look up GameStop’s page on Glassdoor to see employee reviews about benefits.
Indeed: Search for GameStop and check the “Benefits” section for employee comments.
Business News Websites:
Forbes: Search for articles related to GameStop and employee benefits.
Business Insider: Look for any recent news affecting GameStop's health benefits.
Industry News Sources:
HR Dive: This site often covers updates on employee benefits and health care trends.
SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management): Look for articles on changes in health benefits in retail or GameStop specifically.
Government or Legal Websites:
U.S. Department of Labor: Check if there are any filings or notices related to employee benefits for GameStop.
IRS: Search for any relevant information on health benefits regulations that might affect GameStop.
Specific Healthcare-Related Terms and Acronyms:
HMO (Health Maintenance Organization)
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization)
EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization)
HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan)
FSA (Flexible Spending Account)
HSA (Health Savings Account)
COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act)
EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
Recent Employee Healthcare News for GameStop:
Look for any recent changes in their health benefits plans, such as increased premiums, changes in coverage, or new wellness programs.
Check if there have been any major lawsuits or regulatory changes affecting their health benefits.
Look for any company announcements about improving or reducing benefits.
You can use these sources and terms to get a comprehensive view of GameStop’s employee health benefits for the years 2022, 2023, or 2024. If you need a detailed summary of specific findings, let me know!
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