Why More Greif Employees Are Considering Social Security Early — And How Medicare Changes Play a Role
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Greif
Greif, Inc. does not seem to have publicly disclosed a single primary healthcare provider; rather, they typically offer a range of health insurance options to their employees through various insurers, depending on the specific locations and participation in regional healthcare plans. Companies like Greif often partner with large insurers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, and Cigna to provide their employees with comprehensive health benefits.
Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026
As healthcare costs are projected to rise significantly in 2026, Greif could face challenges in managing employee health benefits amid anticipated record increases in ACA premiums. Estimates suggest that without congressional action to extend enhanced subsidies, premiums could soar by over 75% for many enrollees, potentially impacting a majority of their workforce. This surge is largely attributed to rising medical costs and major insurers' rate hikes, which could compel organizations like Greif to reassess their health benefits strategy, balancing financial sustainability with the well-being of their employees. Strategically navigating these changes will be crucial for maintaining competitive health coverage in a challenging market.
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'Greif 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.
'Greif 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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Greif 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 Greif 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 Greif 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 Greif 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 Greif.
📞 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 Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan?
The primary purpose of Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.
How can I enroll in Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan?
You can enroll in Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What types of contributions can I make to Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and possibly catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older in Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan.
Does Greif offer any matching contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Greif offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which is designed to encourage employees to save for retirement.
What is the vesting schedule for Greif's matching contributions?
The vesting schedule for Greif's matching contributions typically follows a graded schedule, meaning employees earn ownership of the contributions over a period of time.
Can I take a loan against my 401(k) Savings Plan with Greif?
Yes, Greif allows participants to take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan balance, subject to certain terms and conditions outlined in the plan documents.
What investment options are available in Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and possibly company stock, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.
How often can I change my contribution amount to Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can typically change their contribution amount to Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to the plan’s rules and limitations.
When can I access my funds from Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can access their funds from Greif's 401(k) Savings Plan upon reaching retirement age, or in cases of hardship, termination of employment, or other qualifying events.
Does Greif provide financial education regarding the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Greif provides resources and educational materials to help employees understand their 401(k) Savings Plan options and make informed investment decisions.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Greif offers a 401(k) retirement plan for its employees, known as the Greif 401(k) Retirement Plan. This plan allows employees to contribute a portion of their paychecks into the 401(k), with pre-tax contributions providing tax deferral benefits. Employees are eligible to participate immediately upon meeting the plan's requirements. The Greif 401(k) Retirement Plan is designed to help employees accumulate savings over time, leveraging investment options available under the plan.
Greif also provides a pension plan, called the Greif Pension Plan. This defined benefit plan calculates retirement benefits based on years of service and a pension formula that factors in final average pay. Employees typically qualify for this plan after meeting a certain age and years of service criteria, though the specifics vary depending on the individual employee’s situation. The plan's structure provides a guaranteed income upon retirement.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Greif announced a restructuring plan aimed at improving operational efficiency. This plan involved streamlining various business units and resulted in a significant reduction in the workforce. The company cited the need to adapt to changing market conditions and optimize its cost structure as key reasons behind this decision. The impact of these changes is significant due to the current economic environment, which emphasizes the importance of companies enhancing their operational efficiency to remain competitive and sustainable. Additionally, such restructuring moves can affect employee morale and job security, highlighting the importance of staying informed about these developments.
Greif offers a variety of stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its employee compensation program. Through the Colleague Stock Purchase Plan (CSPP), Greif employees can purchase stock at a discounted rate compared to market prices. This aligns employees' interests with shareholders, encouraging long-term value creation. The program allows participants to elect a percentage of their salary towards stock purchases, with a cap of $25,000 annually in purchases (Greif Investor) (Greif Investor).
The RSU plan awards eligible employees a set number of units that convert to shares upon vesting, typically over a few years. In 2023, Greif expanded its CSPP to all U.S.-based employees (Greif) (Greif Investor), further enhancing participation. Both stock options and RSUs are aimed at providing a financial incentive to improve performance and foster employee retention. Greif's stock options and RSUs are available primarily to full-time employees, and eligibility may vary based on employment level and tenure
Greif Health Benefits Information
1. Official Greif Website
2022 Benefits Overview: Greif provides comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Employees have access to a variety of plan options through Greif’s health benefits portal.
2023 Benefits Overview: The company introduced new wellness programs and expanded mental health support. They emphasize preventive care and offer telemedicine services.
2024 Benefits Overview: Greif continued to enhance benefits with increased coverage options and integrated health management services. Specific details on premium changes or new plan options might be available in their annual benefits guide.
2. Indeed
General Health Benefits: Reviews suggest that Greif offers competitive health benefits, including healthcare insurance, wellness programs, and employee assistance programs. Employees appreciate the comprehensive nature of the benefits package.
Recent Changes: Some reviews mention adjustments in co-payments and deductibles, reflecting the company’s effort to manage rising healthcare costs.
3. Glassdoor
Employee Feedback: Employees report positive experiences with Greif’s health benefits, noting the inclusivity of coverage and support for work-life balance.
Recent Updates: Recent updates include enhanced mental health resources and more flexible spending account options.
4. LinkedIn
Benefits Information: LinkedIn’s job postings and employee reviews often highlight Greif’s health benefits, including health insurance, wellness initiatives, and preventive care programs.
Recent Developments: The focus has shifted towards providing more personalized health management tools and resources.
5. HR Websites (e.g., SHRM)
Benefits Details: Greif’s health benefits are described as comprehensive, including various health insurance plans, wellness programs, and support for mental health.
Recent News: There are updates about Greif’s efforts to improve employee health and well-being through new programs and partnerships with healthcare providers.
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