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'Northrop Grumman employees planning their retirement should consider how income levels influence ACA subsidies, as even small adjustments in taxable withdrawals can affect future health care affordability.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Northrop Grumman: Northrop Grumman provides various healthcare benefits through multiple providers, including major insurers such as UnitedHealthcare, Aetna (CVS Health), Anthem (Elevance Health), and Cigna. Their offerings include comprehensive health insurance plans, which encompass medical, dental, and vision coverage to address the diverse needs of their employees. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases for Northrop Grumman in 2026: As Northrop Grumman navigates the complex landscape of healthcare costs, employees may face significant increases in their out-of-pocket expenses in 2026. Healthcare premiums are projected to rise sharply, with many states experiencing hikes of over 60%, driven by a combination of escalating medical costs and the potential loss of enhanced federal subsidies. A report from the Kaiser Family Foundation indicates that approximately 92% of ACA marketplace policyholders could see their premiums swell by more than 75%, reflecting the profound impact of regulatory changes and heightened insurer rate demands. This environment calls for proactive planning and financial preparation to mitigate the impending financial challenges associated with healthcare coverage. Click here to learn more
'Northrop Grumman employees approaching retirement should recognize that proactive income and health care planning can make the difference between preserving subsidy eligibility and facing sharply higher ACA premiums.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
In this article, we will discuss:
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How the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies after 2025 could impact health care costs for retirees and early retirees.
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Real-life case studies illustrating how different individuals are adjusting to rising ACA premiums.
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Practical steps Northrop Grumman professionals can take before enrolling in 2026 Marketplace plans.
by Brent Wolf, CFP®, Wealth Enhancement
As open enrollment for 2026 Marketplace plans begins, many households are seeing dramatic shifts in their renewal letters. Rising base premiums and the possible end of enhanced subsidies after 2025 could mean significantly higher out-of-pocket costs for anyone purchasing coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) exchange.
The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) estimates that if Congress does not extend enhanced premium tax credits, average net premium payments could more than double in 2026. 1
“It feels like a second mortgage to pay this premium.”
Profile: A couple in their early 60s who retired a few years before becoming Medicare-eligible.
What changed: Their ACA premium had been manageable due to increased subsidies. Their renewal now indicates a rise of about $1,000 to $1,200 monthly if enhanced credits expire.
Decision pressure: They faced hard choices—drawing more taxable income from IRAs, going without coverage, or returning to the workforce for employer-based insurance.
Our response: We reworked their income plan to align with the ACA’s income-based subsidy structure. By controlling their Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) through smaller IRA withdrawals, use of cash reserves, and partial Roth conversions, we kept them eligible for key subsidies. Comparing a Bronze high-deductible plan with a health savings account (HSA) to a Silver plan revealed the Silver plan—thanks to cost-sharing reductions—was more economical given their expected medical treatments.
“I can’t risk losing coverage while battling an illness.”
Profile: A single client in her early 60s undergoing ongoing medical treatment.
What changed: Without enhanced subsidies, her premiums nearly tripled.
Decision pressure: Balancing affordability with the need to keep her care team and prescriptions consistent.
Our response: We prioritized staying with her provider network and controlling her out-of-pocket costs. A dedicated “medical reserve” fund—equal to one year’s maximum out-of-pocket limit—gave her a cushion without liquidating investments during market declines. We also worked with her physicians to identify lower-cost prescriptions through her plan’s formulary.
“The new premiums are hurting our business margins.”
Profile: A self-employed couple—one partner managing asthma and the other a cardiac rhythm condition.
What changed: Without subsidies, their net premiums are expected to rise sharply.
Decision pressure: Continue paying high premiums, choose a plan with a very high deductible, or seek W-2 employment for benefits.
Our response: We compared total annual costs for a Silver plan versus a Bronze option, factoring in frequent specialist visits and prescriptions. Once total medical costs were considered, the Silver plan proved more cost-effective. We also aligned their life and disability coverage and tailored their tax approach to reflect potential changes in premium tax credits.
“I’m young and healthy—do I even need full coverage?”
Profile: An independent contractor in their 20s with minimal expected medical use.
What changed: Premiums for mid- and high-tier plans nearly quadrupled.
Decision pressure: Choosing between a high-deductible Bronze HSA plan and catastrophic coverage.
Our response: We modeled three options—a Bronze HSA-eligible plan, a mid-tier plan, and catastrophic coverage. The Bronze HSA option offered the best mix of lower premiums and long-term tax benefits. Monthly automated HSA contributions build a future medical fund that can later be used for qualified health care expenses or Medicare premiums (excluding Medigap) after age 65.
Five Steps to Take Before You Enroll
1. Evaluate your total annual cost, not just the premium. Factor in deductibles, copays, and the possibility of reaching your out-of-pocket maximum.
2. Manage your MAGI carefully. ACA subsidies depend on income. Coordinate Roth conversions, capital gains, and IRA withdrawals strategically.
3. Verify your doctor and prescription coverage. Always confirm your plan’s provider network and formulary before enrolling.
4. Maintain a medical reserve fund. Hold six to 12 months of premiums plus a portion of your maximum out-of-pocket in cash or short-term Treasuries.
5. Finalize your plan by December 15. Open Enrollment for 2026 coverage ends on December 15, with plans effective January 1.
If Affordability Is a Concern
Choosing to go without insurance can expose you to serious financial strain in case of illness or accident. Consider the most affordable Bronze plan that still meets ACA minimum coverage requirements. If your income decreases during the year, you may become eligible for Medicaid or CHIP and qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. 2
How The Retirement Group Supports Northrop Grumman Professionals
For Northrop Grumman employees approaching or already in retirement, the intersection of rising health care costs and income planning can be complex. The Retirement Group focuses on helping clients navigate ACA subsidy rules, tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, and health care cost planning during retirement transitions.
To speak with an advisor about aligning your retirement income and health care planning, call (800) 900-5867 today.
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Sources:
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1. Cox, Cynthia, et al. “ACA Marketplace Premium Payments Would More Than Double on Average Next Year if Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Expire.” Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) , 2025, pp. n.p., https://www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/aca-marketplace-premium-payments-would-more-than-double-on-average-next-year-if-enhanced-premium-tax-credits-expire/ .
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2. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. ' Understanding Special Enrollment Periods. ' June 2025.
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Other resources:
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1. “When Can You Get Health Insurance? | Dates & Deadlines.” HealthCare.gov , U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, n.d., https://www.healthcare.gov/quick-guide/dates-and-deadlines/ .
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2. Publication 969: Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favoured Health Plans. Internal Revenue Service, 2024, pp. 8–9, https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p969.pdf .
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3. “Silver vs. Bronze Plan Selection: Cost-Comparison Scenarios.” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) , 23 Dec. 2024, pp. 1–3, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/silver-vs-bronze-cost-comparison-scenario-resource.pdf .
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4. Murphy, Tom. “Expect Health Insurance Prices to Rise Next Year, Brokers Say.” AP News , Associated Press, 24 Aug. 2025, https://apnews.com/article/health-insurance-drug-costs-2026-rates-c4d865ec09c7088ecc6b55dc520f3566 .
How can Northrop Grumman employees effectively maximize their retirement income, and what role do pension plans and personal investments play in this strategy? It's important for employees to understand how components like the Pension Plan Benefits, Savings Plan Benefits, and Social Security Benefits collectively provide a robust retirement framework. This question invites a detailed exploration of how Northrop Grumman's various programs interact, and what actions employees can take to ensure they are optimizing their retirement savings.
Maximizing Retirement Income at Northrop Grumman: Northrop Grumman employees can maximize their retirement income by effectively leveraging the combination of Pension Plan Benefits, Savings Plan Benefits, Social Security Benefits, and Personal Savings and Investments. Each component plays a crucial role: the pension plan provides a defined benefit based on salary and years of service, the savings plan offers a vehicle for tax-advantaged growth through employee and employer contributions, and social security offers a baseline of income adjusted for inflation. Employees should aim to maximize their contributions, particularly to the 401(k) plan, and manage their investments according to their individual retirement timelines and risk tolerance.
What are the different types of retirement benefits available to Northrop Grumman employees, and how do these benefits impact retirement planning? Employees should be aware of the distinctions between defined benefit plans, like the Heritage TRW, and defined contribution plans, such as the 401(k) Savings Plan. This question will allow an in-depth examination of how these benefits function and their significance in the context of Northrop Grumman's overall compensation structure.
Types of Retirement Benefits: Northrop Grumman offers both defined benefit and defined contribution retirement plans. The Heritage TRW Pension Plan, a defined benefit plan, bases pensions on final average earnings and years of service. The 401(k) Savings Plan, a defined contribution plan, allows employees to save and invest with tax advantages, with contributions from both the employee and employer. Understanding these plans' structures and benefits is essential for employees to plan effectively for retirement.
In what ways have recent changes to the Northrop Grumman Pension Program affected employees who are planning to retire in the near future? Understanding the specifics of benefit adjustments or freezing final average earnings will be pivotal for employees' retirement planning. This inquiry will encourage discussion around how these changes influence both current and future retirees regarding their readiness for retirement and their financial planning.
Impact of Recent Changes to Pension Program: Recent changes to the Northrop Grumman Pension Program, such as the freezing of the final average earnings calculation as of December 31, 2014, affect employees planning to retire soon. These changes may alter the expected retirement benefits for some employees, making it crucial for near-retirees to reassess their projected pension benefits under the new rules and plan accordingly to meet their retirement goals.
How do Northrop Grumman employees qualify for early retirement under the current pension plan, and what benefits can they expect? This question should delve into the eligibility criteria for early retirement based on age and years of service, as well as highlight the benefits associated with this option. It provides an opportunity to explore the trade-offs and advantages of opting for early retirement versus working longer.
Early Retirement Qualifications and Benefits: Northrop Grumman employees can qualify for early retirement if they are at least 55 years old with 10 years of vesting service, receiving benefits reduced based on early retirement factors. Understanding these factors and the impact on the retirement benefits can help employees decide the best age to retire to maximize their pension benefits while considering their personal and financial circumstances.
What essential steps should Northrop Grumman employees take to prepare for retirement, including understanding their pension plan and social security benefits? This question can explore the various resources available, such as tools and calculators provided by Northrop Grumman, and the importance of proactive planning. Employees should consider how their decisions today will influence their retirement lifestyle, including the necessity of accumulating both pension and social security benefits.
Preparation Steps for Retirement: Employees should take proactive steps such as utilizing Northrop Grumman’s retirement calculators, attending planning seminars, and consulting with financial advisors available through the Northrop Grumman Benefits Center. It's also important for employees to understand how their pension benefits interact with Social Security and personal savings to create a comprehensive retirement strategy.
What options do Northrop Grumman employees have for managing their savings after retirement, and how can they choose the best strategy for their individual needs? Discussion here can encompass the different methods for drawing down retirement accounts, the importance of balancing withdrawals with ongoing expenses, and considerations for managing longevity risk. It is crucial for retirees to think about how they will provide for themselves throughout their retirement years.
Post-Retirement Savings Management: After retirement, Northrop Grumman employees need to manage their withdrawals from savings plans carefully to sustain their income throughout retirement. Considering factors like withdrawal rates, tax implications, and investment risk will help in maintaining a stable financial status in the retirement years.
How does Northrop Grumman determine the final average earnings (FAE) used in calculating pensions, and what factors should employees consider to impact this calculation positively? This question could lead to a discussion about the significance of high-earning years, the concept that only the top five consecutive earning years count, and how employees can strategically plan their careers to boost their FAE for retirement.
Determining Final Average Earnings (FAE): Northrop Grumman calculates FAE for pension benefits based on the highest five consecutive years of earnings. Employees should aim to maximize their earnings during these peak years, as this will directly increase the pension benefits they receive upon retirement.
What are the specific vesting requirements for Northrop Grumman's pension plans, and why is understanding these concepts critical for employees? As employees may leave the company at various stages of their careers, grasping how vesting works can significantly affect their financial security. This question allows for a detailed discussion on how years of service translate into non-forfeitable benefits.
Understanding Vesting Requirements: Vesting in Northrop Grumman's pension plans requires completing three years of service, after which the benefits earned become non-forfeitable. Employees should be aware of their vesting status, especially if considering changing jobs, as it impacts their eligibility for pension benefits.
How can Northrop Grumman employees effectively utilize the resources available through the Northrop Grumman Benefits Center for their retirement planning needs? This question invites exploration of what tools and guidance are obtainable through the Benefits Center, including contact methods, online resources, and personalized retirement evaluations, allowing employees to make informed decisions about their retirement.
Utilizing Northrop Grumman Benefits Center Resources: The Northrop Grumman Benefits Center offers tools, resources, and support for retirement planning. Employees should frequently use these resources, such as the retirement income calculator and personalized consultations, to plan effectively for their retirement.
How can Northrop Grumman employees find additional information regarding their retirement options and resources, including the most effective ways to contact the Northrop Grumman Benefits Center? With a focus on how to access support and information, this question emphasizes the role of company resources in assisting employees with their retirement strategies.ã€4:4†source】
Finding Retirement Information and Support: Additional information about retirement options and resources can be accessed through Northrop Grumman's Benefits Online portal and the Benefits Center. Employees are encouraged to actively use these channels for up-to-date information and personalized support to navigate their retirement planning effectively.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Northrop Grumman provides a defined benefit pension plan with a cash balance formula. The plan includes separate accounts for health benefits. Employees accrue benefits based on years of service and earnings, with options for lump-sum or monthly payments.
Restructuring and Layoffs: Northrop Grumman is laying off around 1,500 employees as part of a restructuring plan to improve operational efficiency (Source: Defense News). Strategic Adjustments: The company is focusing on its core defense and aerospace businesses. Financial Performance: Northrop Grumman reported a 6% increase in net sales for Q4 2023, driven by strong demand for its defense products (Source: Northrop Grumman).
Northrop Grumman grants RSUs that vest over several years, giving employees shares of the company. Additionally, stock options are provided, allowing employees to purchase shares at a set price.
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