Why More Gartner Employees Are Considering Social Security Early — And How Medicare Changes Play a Role
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Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026
As we approach 2026, healthcare costs are projected to surge significantly, particularly within the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Reports suggest that some states may experience premium hikes exceeding 60%, driven by a confluence of rising medical expenses, the potential expiration of enhanced federal subsidies, and aggressive rate increases by major insurers. Without action from Congress to extend these subsidies, about 92% of marketplace enrollees could face staggering increases of up to 75% in their out-of-pocket premiums, making affordability a pressing issue for millions. As healthcare consumers prepare for these anticipated changes, understanding these dynamics is crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of healthcare costs.
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'Gartner 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.
'Gartner 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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Gartner 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 Gartner 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 Gartner 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 Gartner 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 Gartner.
📞 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 Gartner's 401(k) plan?
The primary purpose of Gartner's 401(k) plan is to help employees save for retirement by providing a tax-advantaged account to accumulate savings over time.
How can Gartner employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Gartner employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan by accessing the employee benefits portal and following the enrollment instructions provided.
Does Gartner offer a company match for contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Gartner offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees boost their retirement savings.
What types of investment options are available in Gartner's 401(k) plan?
Gartner'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.
Can Gartner employees change their contribution percentages at any time?
Yes, Gartner employees can change their contribution percentages at any time through the employee benefits portal, subject to certain plan rules.
What is the vesting schedule for the company match in Gartner's 401(k) plan?
The vesting schedule for the company match in Gartner's 401(k) plan typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means employees earn rights to the company match over a period of time.
Are there any fees associated with managing Gartner's 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be fees associated with managing Gartner's 401(k) plan, which can include administrative fees and investment management fees. Employees can review the fee structure in the plan documents.
How often can Gartner employees review their 401(k) account statements?
Gartner employees can review their 401(k) account statements quarterly, and they also have access to their account information online at any time.
What happens to a Gartner employee's 401(k) account if they leave the company?
If a Gartner employee leaves the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) account to another retirement plan, leave it in the current plan, or cash it out, subject to taxes and penalties.
Is there a loan option available within Gartner's 401(k) plan?
Yes, Gartner's 401(k) plan may offer a loan option, allowing employees to borrow against their account balance under certain conditions.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Plan Name: Gartner does not appear to have a defined benefit pension plan. The company primarily offers a defined contribution plan, which is a 401(k) plan.
Years of Service and Age Qualification: Not applicable as Gartner does not offer a traditional pension plan.
Plan Name: Gartner 401(k) Plan.
Eligibility: Gartner's 401(k) Plan is generally available to all eligible employees. Eligibility typically depends on factors such as length of service and employment status. Employees usually become eligible to participate in the plan after completing a specified period of employment, often 30 days.
Contribution Limits: Employees can contribute up to the IRS annual limit. Gartner may offer a match or other contributions, which should be detailed in the plan documents.
Company Match: Gartner provides a matching contribution, though the specific percentage or formula should be verified in the most recent plan documents.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Gartner announced a significant restructuring plan, which included layoffs affecting approximately 5% of its global workforce. This decision comes as the company aims to streamline its operations and adapt to evolving market demands. The restructuring is part of Gartner's broader strategy to focus on high-growth areas and improve operational efficiency. Given the current economic climate, where companies are reevaluating their workforce and operational strategies, it is crucial to stay informed about such changes to understand their potential impact on the job market and broader economic conditions.
Company Benefits, Pensions, and 401k Changes: Gartner has also made adjustments to its employee benefits, including modifications to its pension and 401k plans. The company has shifted to a more flexible 401k match program, which now varies based on individual performance and company profitability. Additionally, changes to the pension plan have been made to better align with current financial realities and investment returns. These changes are particularly important to follow in the context of fluctuating investment markets and evolving tax regulations, as they can directly affect retirement planning and financial security for employees.
Gartner provides stock options as part of its employee compensation package. These options typically vest over a period of time, offering employees the opportunity to purchase shares at a set price. Stock options are generally available to senior executives and other key employees.
Health Insurance: Gartner offers comprehensive health insurance options including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Wellness Programs: Includes access to wellness resources, mental health support, and employee assistance programs.
Acronyms and Terms: Common terms include HSA (Health Savings Account), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), and EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
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