Why More MKS Instruments Employees Are Considering Social Security Early — And How Medicare Changes Play a Role
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'MKS Instruments 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.
'MKS Instruments 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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MKS Instruments 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 MKS Instruments 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 MKS Instruments 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 MKS Instruments 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 MKS Instruments.
📞 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 401(k) plan offered by MKS Instruments?
The 401(k) plan at MKS Instruments is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.
How can I enroll in the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan?
You can enroll in the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment form available through the HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does MKS Instruments offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?
Yes, MKS Instruments provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan aligns with IRS guidelines, which are updated annually.
Can I change my contribution percentage for the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan?
Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage for the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan at any time by submitting a request through the HR portal.
What investment options are available in the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan?
The MKS Instruments 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.
When can I access my funds in the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan?
Employees can access their funds in the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan upon reaching retirement age, or under certain circumstances such as hardship withdrawals.
What happens to my MKS Instruments 401(k) plan if I leave the company?
If you leave MKS Instruments, you can either roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account or leave it in the MKS Instruments plan, subject to plan rules.
Does MKS Instruments allow loans against my 401(k) balance?
Yes, MKS Instruments may allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
Are there any fees associated with the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be fees associated with managing the MKS Instruments 401(k) plan, which are typically 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.
Name of Pension Plan:
MKS Instruments does not offer a traditional pension plan. The company primarily provides a 401(k) plan for its employees.
Years of Service and Age Qualification:
MKS Instruments does not have a pension plan, so there are no qualifications related to years of service or age for a pension.
Name of 401(k) Plan:
The 401(k) plan at MKS Instruments is simply referred to as the "MKS Instruments 401(k) Plan."
Eligibility and Qualification:
Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the MKS Instruments 401(k) Plan immediately upon hire.
Qualification for Matching Contributions: The company offers a matching contribution to eligible employees. To qualify for the company match, employees must contribute a percentage of their salary to their 401(k) account. Specific details regarding the match percentage can be found in the company's plan document.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, MKS Instruments announced a restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This includes a reduction of approximately 5% of its workforce, focusing on consolidating roles and improving efficiency. This decision comes amidst a challenging economic climate and increased operational costs. The company’s efforts are designed to enhance its competitive position and adapt to market fluctuations.
Benefit Changes: MKS Instruments has also revised its employee benefits package to better align with current financial constraints. Changes include adjustments to healthcare contributions and modifications to its retirement benefits plan. These changes reflect the company's response to evolving economic conditions and aim to sustain long-term financial health. It is crucial to monitor these updates due to their potential impact on employee satisfaction and overall company stability in the current economic environment.
Stock Options: MKS Instruments provided stock options as part of their employee compensation package. The company’s stock option plans are detailed in their 2022 10-K filing.
RSUs: Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) were also available to employees, offering equity-based compensation.
Health Benefits Overview: MKS Instruments offers comprehensive health benefits to its employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They provide both PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) and HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) plans.
2023 Updates: The company introduced a new High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) in 2023 with Health Savings Account (HSA) eligibility. They also improved the employee wellness program, including mental health resources
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