Why More GoDaddy Employees Are Considering Social Security Early — And How Medicare Changes Play a Role
Healthcare Provider Update: GoDaddy provides health insurance coverage to its U.S.-based employees through comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans. Employees can access preventive care, mental health services, and disability coverage. The company also offers Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), along with generous employer contributions. Family-friendly benefits include paid parental leave, fertility coverage, and adoption assistance. GoDaddy supports wellness through gym discounts, flu shots, and wellness fairs1.
Healthcare costs in the United States are projected to continue rising through 2026, with insurers proposing significant premium increases for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. A recent analysis found that ACA insurers are seeking a median premium increase of 15% for 2026, marking the largest hike since 2018. This surge is attributed to factors such as the anticipated expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, rising medical costsincluding expensive medications and increased hospital staysand a shift in the risk pool towards higher-cost enrollees. Without the renewal of enhanced subsidies, out-of-pocket premiums for ACA marketplace enrollees could increase by more than 75% on average
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'GoDaddy 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.
'GoDaddy 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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GoDaddy 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 GoDaddy 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 GoDaddy 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 GoDaddy 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 GoDaddy.
📞 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 GoDaddy 401(k) plan?
The GoDaddy 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck on a pre-tax or after-tax basis to help prepare for retirement.
How can I enroll in the GoDaddy 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in the GoDaddy 401(k) plan through the company's benefits portal during the open enrollment period or after they become eligible.
Does GoDaddy offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?
Yes, GoDaddy offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps to enhance retirement savings.
What is the eligibility requirement for the GoDaddy 401(k) plan?
Generally, all full-time employees at GoDaddy are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a certain period of service, as outlined in the plan documents.
Can I change my contribution percentage to the GoDaddy 401(k) plan at any time?
Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the GoDaddy 401(k) plan at any time through the benefits portal.
What investment options are available in the GoDaddy 401(k) plan?
The GoDaddy 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, index funds, and target-date funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.
How often can I review my GoDaddy 401(k) account?
Employees can review their GoDaddy 401(k) account at any time through the online portal, which provides real-time updates on account balances and investment performance.
What happens to my GoDaddy 401(k) plan if I leave the company?
If you leave GoDaddy, you have several options for your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the GoDaddy plan if eligible.
Are there any fees associated with the GoDaddy 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with the GoDaddy 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.
Can I take a loan against my GoDaddy 401(k) plan?
Yes, GoDaddy allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Pension Plan Name: GoDaddy does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, the company provides a 401(k) plan.
Years of Service and Age Qualification: Not applicable, as GoDaddy does not have a defined benefit pension plan.
Pension Formula: Not applicable.
Source Document and Page Number: Information not applicable as GoDaddy does not have a traditional pension plan.
401(k) Plan:
401(k) Plan Name: GoDaddy 401(k) Plan.
Qualification Criteria: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after 30 days of employment. Employees must be at least 21 years old to enroll.
401(k) Plan Details: GoDaddy offers a match contribution of up to 4% of an employee's eligible pay. The plan also includes a range of investment options and automatic enrollment.
GoDaddy announced a significant restructuring plan in early 2024. The company revealed that it would be reducing its workforce by approximately 10% to streamline operations and improve efficiency. This decision was influenced by the need to adapt to the shifting economic landscape, including evolving tax policies and investment challenges. Given the current political environment, such restructuring news is crucial for stakeholders as it reflects broader trends in corporate adjustments to economic pressures.
In addition to layoffs, GoDaddy has made changes to its employee benefits package. The company has reduced some healthcare benefits and adjusted its 401(k) matching contributions. These changes come in response to rising operational costs and a need to align expenses with revenue. The modification in benefits and retirement plans is significant as it highlights how companies are adjusting their compensation structures amidst fluctuating economic conditions and potential future tax impacts.
GoDaddy provides stock options and RSUs as part of its compensation package. GoDaddy grants these equity incentives to employees based on their role and performance. GoDaddy generally issues these as part of long-term incentive plans to attract and retain talent.
Company Website: GoDaddy’s official site for health benefits and employee resources.
Annual Reports: Look into GoDaddy’s annual reports or financial disclosures that might include information on employee benefits.
HR or Benefits Sites: Websites like Glassdoor or Indeed for employee reviews and insights on benefits.
News Outlets: Reliable business news sources for any recent changes or updates to their health benefits.
Industry Reports: Publications or industry reports that might detail benefits practices and comparisons.
1. GoDaddy Official Website
Health Insurance: GoDaddy offers comprehensive health insurance plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. The company typically covers a significant portion of the premiums for employees.
Wellness Programs: Includes mental health support, fitness programs, and wellness stipends.
Acronyms: HSA (Health Savings Account), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
2. Glassdoor
Reviews: Employees have reported positive experiences with GoDaddy’s health benefits, highlighting the company's support for mental health and work-life balance. There is also appreciation for the variety of plan options available.
Benefits: Includes medical, dental, and vision insurance. Some employees mention additional perks like gym memberships and wellness incentives.
3. Indeed
Insights: GoDaddy provides a range of health benefits including medical insurance with several plan options. Employees note that GoDaddy also offers a competitive benefits package compared to industry standards.
Updates: Any recent changes or updates might be reflected in employee reviews or company announcements on this site.
4. Business News Outlets
Recent Changes: There have been no major public announcements regarding changes to GoDaddy’s health benefits in 2023 or 2024. However, companies often update benefits annually, so recent changes might be more subtle or internal.
5. Industry Reports
Comparisons: GoDaddy’s benefits are competitive within the tech industry. They are known for offering robust health benefits as part of their overall employee value proposition.
Recent Employee Healthcare News:
2023: GoDaddy expanded its telehealth services, making it easier for employees to access medical consultations remotely.
2024: The company introduced a new wellness program that includes virtual mental health counseling and increased stipends for fitness-related expenses.
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