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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for ConocoPhillips ConocoPhillips provides its employees with access to various healthcare plans through third-party providers, primarily offering services via large insurers such as Blue Cross Blue Shield and UnitedHealthcare. These plans typically include comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage tailored to meet the diverse needs of its workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As the healthcare landscape evolves, ConocoPhillips employees can expect significant premium hikes in 2026, driven by a perfect storm of factors impacting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. With anticipated increases exceeding 60% in some states and the potential expiration of federal premium subsidies, many employees could face out-of-pocket costs soaring by up to 75%, compounding the financial pressure. The ongoing upward trend in medical costs, coupled with employers' shifts in cost-sharing strategies, may further challenge employees as they navigate rising healthcare expenses. Planning ahead and understanding these dynamics is crucial for effective budgeting and healthcare management in the coming years. Click here to learn more
'ConocoPhillips employees anticipating rising health care expenses should take a proactive approach by reviewing their income plans and health care budgets now, as thoughtful preparation can help reduce uncertainty during subsidy transitions.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
'ConocoPhillips employees facing potential changes to ACA subsidies should revisit their retirement income and health care strategies now, as early planning can help them stay adaptable amid evolving costs.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
In this article, we will discuss:
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How ACA subsidies expiring in 2025 could affect health care costs for ConocoPhillips employees and retirees.
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Why 2026 health insurance premiums may increase dramatically for pre-Medicare retirees.
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What steps individuals can take now to prepare and manage future health care expenses.
The ACA Shockwave: What ConocoPhillips Employees, Families, and Retirees May Expect from Increasing Health Insurance Costs
Each fall, millions of Americans, including those transitioning from ConocoPhillips, prepare for open enrollment—the period when health insurance options can be reviewed and selected. In most states, open enrollment for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans begins on November 1.
Final elections must be submitted by December 15, 2025 for coverage beginning January 1, 2026. Coverage will start on February 1 for those who enroll or make changes between December 16 and January 16. Early enrollees still have the option to adjust plans any time before the enrollment window closes.
What Is the Main Concern for 2026?
Enhanced premium tax credits, which began in 2021 and are scheduled through 2025, currently lower what households pay for ACA coverage. If these enhanced subsidies expire on December 31, 2025, many ConocoPhillips retirees using ACA coverage before Medicare eligibility could face significantly higher premiums.
According to research from KFF, average net premiums—what individuals pay after subsidies—could rise by roughly 114% in 2026 if current subsidies are not renewed. 1
Of the 24.3 million Americans expected to enroll in ACA marketplace plans for 2025, about 22 million qualify for premium subsidies. 2
Analysts caution about a potential “coverage cliff,” where individuals drop health care plans due to affordability concerns. The Urban Institute notes that millions could lose insurance coverage if current subsidy enhancements end. 3
How This May Impact Households and Retirees
Financial professionals report rising concern among retirees, small business owners, and individuals who rely on ACA coverage before turning 65. Higher premiums may lead to adjustments in retirement timing, withdrawal strategies, or monthly spending.
Even those not enrolled in ACA plans could be affected. If healthier individuals leave the marketplace due to cost increases, the remaining pool becomes older and less healthy, which may lead to higher premiums for others.
Why Timing Matters
The ACA enrollment period runs from November 1 to January 15. If Congress extends subsidies, individuals can select a plan based on available data and adjust their selection before December 15. Policyholders still retain the ability to make changes any time before the enrollment window closes.
Why Retirees Could Be Most Vulnerable
ConocoPhillips retirees in their early 60s often rely on ACA plans until they reach Medicare eligibility at age 65. Without extended subsidies, these retirees may need to revise budgets, modify withdrawal plans, or consider part-time employment to maintain coverage.
What You Can Do Right Now
Stay Updated Through Reliable Sources
Follow updates from HealthCare.gov and KFF.
Review Budget Scenarios
Compare premium costs with and without subsidies to understand the potential effect on monthly expenses.
Evaluate Your Health Care Strategy
Make sure your medical, dental, and prescription benefits work together effectively.
Maintain Coverage
Unexpected medical expenses can be difficult to manage without at least basic health insurance.
Plan Tax and Withdrawal Strategies Carefully
Because ACA subsidies are based on adjusted gross income, retirees may continue to qualify by using approaches such as Roth conversions or structured IRA withdrawals.
Support from The Retirement Group
The Retirement Group works with current and former ConocoPhillips employees to review how health care expenses may relate to pension choices, income distribution, tax planning, and Social Security. For more information, call (800) 900-5867.
Looking Ahead
Policies and markets may shift, even if subsidies are not extended. Reviewing health care costs annually and remaining flexible may help retirees adapt to future changes.
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Sources:
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1. Cox, Cynthia, Karen Pollitz, and Justin Lo. ACA Marketplace Premium Payments Would More than Double on Average Next Year If Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Expire . KFF, 30 Sept. 2025.
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2. yahoo!news. ' Millions could go without health care coverage in 2026 ,' by Karissa Waddick and Stephanie Innes. 19 Nov. 2025.
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3. Buettgens, Matthew, Clare Pan, and Christine Monahan. 4.8 Million People Will Lose Coverage in 2026 if Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Expire . Urban Institute, Sept. 2025.
- Other Resources:
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1. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Health Insurance Exchanges 2025 Open Enrollment Report. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 2025.
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2. Fernandez, Bernadette. Enhanced Premium Tax Credit Expiration: Frequently Asked Questions. Congressional Research Service, 24 Sept. 2025.
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3. Ku, Leighton, et al. Expiring ACA Premium Tax Credits Could Lead to Nearly 340,000 Jobs Lost Across the U.S. in 2026. The Commonwealth Fund, 16 Oct. 2025.
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How does the retirement process at ConocoPhillips provide guidance to employees in selecting the most beneficial form of payment? In what ways can employees utilize available resources to maximize their understanding of the pension options offered by ConocoPhillips?
The retirement process at ConocoPhillips provides employees with various resources to guide them in selecting the most beneficial form of pension payment. Employees can access the "How to Choose the Best Form of Payment" link on Your Benefits Resources™ (YBR) to learn more about their options and determine what works best for their financial situation(ConocoPhillips_Your_Ret…).
What steps must be completed by employees at ConocoPhillips to ensure they initiate their retirement process accurately and avoid any delays? How crucial is the timing of these steps in determining the Benefit Commencement Date (BCD)?
Employees at ConocoPhillips must initiate the retirement process by requesting their pension paperwork 60-90 days before their Benefit Commencement Date (BCD). Timing is crucial, as missing deadlines may delay the BCD and associated payments. Completing all steps on time ensures that the retirement process flows smoothly(ConocoPhillips_Your_Ret…).
Given the complexities associated with the lump-sum pension payment option at ConocoPhillips, what considerations should employees take into account before electing this choice? How does the current interest rate at the Benefit Commencement Date impact the lump-sum amount?
Before electing a lump-sum pension payment, ConocoPhillips employees should consider the current interest rate at their BCD, as it directly affects the lump-sum amount. A higher interest rate typically reduces the lump-sum payment, making timing and rate awareness critical(ConocoPhillips_Your_Ret…).
In what ways can ConocoPhillips employees ensure their Pension Election Authorization form is completed correctly to facilitate timely pension payments? What are the implications of not adhering to the required notarized consent for married participants?
Ensuring the correct completion of the Pension Election Authorization form is vital for timely pension payments. For married participants, notarized spousal consent is required, and failure to provide this could result in delays or issues with payment processing(ConocoPhillips_Your_Ret…).
How does choosing direct deposit for pension payments at ConocoPhillips streamline the retirement process for employees? What should employees know about setup and changes regarding direct deposit after initiating their pension benefits?
Choosing direct deposit for pension payments simplifies the process for employees at ConocoPhillips, as it enables automatic payments to their bank account. Employees can set up direct deposit during their retirement process or update it at a later time(ConocoPhillips_Your_Ret…).
For employees considering rolling over their lump-sum pension payment from ConocoPhillips, what procedures should they follow to ensure compliance with IRS regulations and to avoid tax penalties? How can effective planning influence the success of this rollover?
Employees electing to roll over their lump-sum pension payment must follow specific IRS regulations to avoid tax penalties. Effective planning, such as obtaining rollover paperwork and adhering to IRS rules, ensures compliance and smooth fund transfer(ConocoPhillips_Your_Ret…).
What resources does ConocoPhillips provide for employees to calculate and project their retirement income? How can these tools empower employees to make informed decisions regarding their future financial security?
ConocoPhillips provides employees with tools such as the "Project Retirement Income" feature on YBR, empowering them to calculate and project their retirement income. These resources help employees make informed decisions about their financial future(ConocoPhillips_Your_Ret…).
How do deadlines play a pivotal role in the benefits process for retiring employees at ConocoPhillips, and what specific dates must be adhered to in order to avoid payment delays? Can you provide examples of consequences resulting from missed deadlines?
Deadlines are critical in ConocoPhillips' retirement process, as missing them can delay pension payments. For example, requesting pension paperwork after the 15th of the month can delay the BCD by a month, affecting the pension payout date(ConocoPhillips_Your_Ret…).
What are the added advantages for employees at ConocoPhillips who actively seek assistance or information from the Benefits Center during their retirement planning? How can this proactive approach enhance their overall retirement experience?
Employees who seek assistance from the Benefits Center during their retirement planning benefit from personalized guidance. This proactive approach ensures that they fully understand their options and deadlines, enhancing their overall retirement experience(ConocoPhillips_Your_Ret…).
How can employees at ConocoPhillips contact the Benefits Center to receive personalized assistance in navigating their retirement options? What specific resources and support can they expect when reaching out for help?
ConocoPhillips employees can contact the Benefits Center by calling 800-622-5501 or accessing YBR online. The Benefits Center provides personalized assistance and guidance, helping employees navigate their pension options effectively(ConocoPhillips_Your_Ret…).
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