Why More KBR Employees Are Considering Social Security Early — And How Medicare Changes Play a Role
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for KBR
KBR, a company known for its engineering and construction services, provides health insurance through its partnerships with major health insurers. As of now, KBR employees have access to healthcare coverage options primarily through UnitedHealthcare, which is one of the largest health insurers in the United States. This ensures that employees can receive comprehensive health services, including preventive care and specialty treatments.
Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026
In 2026, healthcare costs are projected to surge significantly, exacerbated by a challenging blend of factors. Many states are staring down potential increases in health insurance premiums beyond 60%, particularly influenced by the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies that could cause out-of-pocket costs to skyrocket by over 75% for most ACA marketplace enrollees. Coupled with rising medical expenses driven by inflation, the anticipated premium hikes reflect a perfect storm for consumers, increasing the financial burden on both individuals and families during a critical period. Insurers report significant revenue growth but also face mounting pressures that may further distress access to affordable healthcare coverage.
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'KBR 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.
'KBR 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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KBR 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 KBR 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 KBR 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 KBR 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 KBR.
📞 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 KBR's 401(k) plan?
KBR's 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.
How does KBR match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
KBR offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of the employee's contributions up to a certain limit.
When can employees at KBR start contributing to the 401(k) plan?
Employees at KBR can start contributing to the 401(k) plan after completing their initial eligibility period, which is usually outlined in the employee handbook.
What types of investment options are available in KBR's 401(k) plan?
KBR's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to help employees diversify their portfolios.
Can employees at KBR take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, KBR allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain conditions and limits set by the plan.
What happens to my KBR 401(k) if I leave the company?
If you leave KBR, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out your balance, or leave it in the KBR plan if allowed.
Is there a vesting schedule for KBR's 401(k) matching contributions?
Yes, KBR has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched funds.
How can KBR employees change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?
KBR employees can change their contribution percentage by accessing their account online or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does KBR provide educational resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?
Yes, KBR provides educational resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed investment decisions.
Are there any fees associated with KBR's 401(k) plan?
Yes, KBR's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
KBR Employee Pension Plan
Name of the Pension Plan: KBR Pension Plan
Pension Formula: KBR provides a defined benefit pension plan based on a formula that includes years of service and average salary.
Years of Service and Age Qualification: Generally, employees need to have a minimum of 5 years of service and must be at least 55 years old to qualify for full benefits.
Name of the 401(k) Plan: KBR 401(k) Savings Plan
Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the KBR 401(k) Savings Plan after completing 30 days of service
Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, KBR announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining its operations. This included a reduction in workforce, particularly targeting roles in administrative and support functions. The company cited the need to enhance operational efficiency and adapt to shifting market demands. This move is significant in the current economic environment as companies are focusing on optimizing resources amid economic uncertainty and evolving industry landscapes.
Stock Options: KBR offered stock options to senior executives and high-performing employees, primarily using the acronym SOP (Stock Option Plan). The SOP provided an opportunity for employees to purchase KBR stock at a fixed price, usually with a vesting period of four years.
Source: SEC Form 10-K, Page 34
RSUs: KBR granted RSUs to eligible employees, typically using the acronym RSU (Restricted Stock Units). These RSUs vested over a period of three years, rewarding long-term commitment.
Source: Yahoo Finance, KBR Annual Report, Page 20
Health Benefits: KBR provides a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage. They offer various plans including PPOs, HSAs, and FSAs.
Acronyms and Terms: Common terms include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HSA (Health Savings Account), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), EAP (Employee Assistance Program), and EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization).
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