Why More Mondelez International Employees Are Considering Social Security Early — And How Medicare Changes Play a Role
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Mondelez International
Mondelez International primarily utilizes Aetna as their healthcare provider for employee health insurance coverage.
Potential Healthcare Cost Increases for Mondelez International in 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, Mondelez International employees may face significant increases in healthcare costs. Factors contributing to this rise include anticipated premium hikes in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, with some states expecting increases over 60%. Additionally, a substantial number of employers, including Mondelez, are projected to pass on more healthcare costs to employees by raising deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. As a result, employees must prepare for the possibility of sharp out-of-pocket expenses, necessitating careful planning and awareness of benefit changes to mitigate potential financial strains.
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'Mondelez International 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.
'Mondelez International 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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Mondelez International 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 Mondelez International 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 Mondelez International 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 Mondelez International 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 Mondelez International.
📞 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 Mondelez International?
The 401(k) plan at Mondelez International is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.
How can employees enroll in Mondelez International's 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in Mondelez International's 401(k) plan by accessing the employee benefits portal or contacting the HR department for guidance.
Does Mondelez International offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?
Yes, Mondelez International offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, helping to boost retirement savings.
What are the eligibility requirements for Mondelez International's 401(k) plan?
To be eligible for Mondelez International's 401(k) plan, employees typically need to meet certain criteria, such as being a full-time employee and completing a specific period of service.
What investment options are available in Mondelez International's 401(k) plan?
Mondelez International's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.
Can employees take loans against their 401(k) at Mondelez International?
Yes, Mondelez International allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance under certain conditions, providing flexibility for financial needs.
What is the vesting schedule for Mondelez International's 401(k) plan?
Mondelez International has a vesting schedule that determines how much of the company match employees can keep if they leave the company, typically based on years of service.
How can employees change their contribution percentage to Mondelez International's 401(k) plan?
Employees can change their contribution percentage to Mondelez International's 401(k) plan by logging into the benefits portal or contacting HR for assistance.
When can employees start withdrawing from their Mondelez International 401(k) plan?
Employees can generally start withdrawing from their Mondelez International 401(k) plan without penalty at age 59½, subject to specific plan rules.
Does Mondelez International provide financial education regarding the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Mondelez International offers resources and financial education programs to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed decisions.
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: Mondelez International Pension Plan
Years of Service & Age Qualification: Employees typically need to have at least 5 years of service and must be at least 55 years old to qualify for pension benefits.
Pension Formula: The pension benefit is calculated based on years of service and final average salary. The formula used is generally a percentage of the average salary over a specified period multiplied by the number of years of service.
Plan Name: Mondelez International 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
Who Qualifies: All full-time employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan.
401(k) Plan Details: Mondelez International offers a standard 401(k) plan with matching contributions. Employees can contribute a percentage of their salary up to the maximum allowed by law. Mondelez typically matches a portion of employee contributions.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2023, Mondelez International announced a global restructuring plan aiming to streamline operations and improve efficiency. This plan included a reduction of approximately 3% of its workforce globally. The restructuring is part of the company's strategy to adapt to shifting market demands and operational challenges. It’s essential for employees and investors to stay informed about these changes due to their potential impact on job security and the company's financial health.
Benefit and Pension Changes: Mondelez has also been updating its employee benefit programs and pension plans. Recent reports indicate changes to the company's 401(k) matching contributions and modifications to retirement benefits. The adjustments are designed to enhance financial stability and align with broader industry trends. Given the current economic conditions and evolving tax regulations, understanding these changes is vital for planning personal finances and retirement strategies.
Mondelez International typically offers stock options and RSUs to its employees as part of its compensation package. In 2022, Mondelez International provided stock options and RSUs to a select group of employees, including executives and senior management. The stock options allowed employees to purchase company stock at a set price, while RSUs granted shares that vest over time. Source: Mondelez International Annual Report 2022, Page 45.
Health Benefits Overview: Mondelez International offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance. Employees can choose from various plans based on their needs.
Recent Updates: As of 2024, Mondelez International has updated their health benefits to include enhanced mental health support, expanded telemedicine options, and a focus on preventive care.
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