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New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

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Navigating Rising Long-Term Care Costs: Essential Insights for Tetra Tech Employees

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Healthcare Provider Update: Tetra Tech's Healthcare Provider Insight Tetra Tech currently partners with various health insurance providers to deliver healthcare benefits to its employees, including prominent insurers in the marketplace. As employees prepare for upcoming benefits changes, it is critical to understand the intricacies of their coverage and options. In 2026, Tetra Tech employees are likely to experience significant increases in healthcare costs, driven by broader industry trends. With anticipated premium hikes in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace reaching over 60% in some states, many employees could see their out-of-pocket expenses soar. Factors contributing to this include the potential expiration of enhanced federal subsidies and broader medical cost inflation, which are expected to add substantial financial pressure on individuals. Consequently, Tetra Tech employees should proactively review their healthcare options and budget for potentially higher expenditures in the coming year, ensuring they are equipped to handle these economic challenges. Click here to learn more

As Tetra Tech employees approach retirement, it's crucial to address the need for long-term care.  Government projections indicate that nearly 70% of older adults will require some form of long-term assistance.   Despite this, a survey from the Kaiser Family Foundation reveals that many have not prepared for this eventuality.


The Cost of Long-Term Care

For employees at Tetra Tech, understanding the financial implications of long-term care is vital.  A Genworth Cost of Care survey  reports that the average annual cost for a private room in a nursing home exceeds $100,000, while home health aides average over $60,000 per year. Since Medicare does not cover these expenses, options such as personal savings, hybrid insurance policies, annuities with long-term care components, traditional insurance, or Medicaid (post asset depletion) become necessary considerations.

Family Impact

The financial and emotional toll of unprepared long-term care can disrupt family stability. This section offers practical tips for Tetra Tech employees on managing these potential costs.

Conventional Insurance for Long-Term Care


For Tetra Tech's workforce, obtaining long-term care insurance requires good health, timely application, and the financial ability to sustain premiums. However, only a small fraction of those eligible opt for this insurance.

The Price of Long-Term Health Insurance

Purchasing long-term care insurance during one's forties or early fifties can result in significantly lower premiums. With age, not only do premiums rise, but the likelihood of being denied coverage increases as well.

Methods for Cutting Costs

Tetra Tech employees might find financial relief in purchasing insurance early, choosing policies with a joint benefit option for couples, or opting for a longer elimination period to reduce premium costs. Annual premium payments also offer cost savings.

Benefits for Tetra Tech Employees

Some employers, may offer long-term care insurance as part of their benefits package, which often remains portable after employment ends.

Hybrid Insurance Policies

The market has seen a shift towards hybrid policies that combine life insurance with long-term care benefits. These are accessible but typically more expensive than standalone policies.

Long-Term Care Rider Annuities

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Annuities with a long-term care rider provide a hybrid solution that may suit some retirees better, offering payments irrespective of long-term care needs and usually featuring more lenient health requirements.

Independent Insurance

Affluent retirees might consider self-insuring, requiring substantial liquid assets to cover potential long-term care costs. It's important for Tetra Tech employees to plan for the tax implications of using retirement savings for these costs.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

HSAs offer a tax-advantaged way to save for long-term care expenses, suitable for Tetra Tech employees with high-deductible health plans. These accounts allow for tax-free growth and withdrawals when used for qualified medical expenses.

Family Guidance

Many retirees will rely on family for care, as shown by the case of Nancy Yung, whose family's efforts epitomize the crucial role relatives play in long-term care.

In Summary

Planning for long-term care is akin to preparing a safety net for retirement, essential for mitigating the impact of rising housing and food costs. Tetra Tech employees should consult with financial advisors to explore all available options to secure their future financially. This planning is not just about risk management—it's about assisting in a stable and shielded path into retirement.

What is Tetra Tech's 401k plan?

Tetra Tech's 401k plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or after-tax (Roth) basis.

How does Tetra Tech match employee contributions to the 401k plan?

Tetra Tech offers a matching contribution to employee 401k accounts, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

When can I enroll in Tetra Tech's 401k plan?

Employees at Tetra Tech can enroll in the 401k plan during the initial onboarding process or during the annual open enrollment period.

What are the contribution limits for Tetra Tech's 401k plan?

Tetra Tech follows IRS guidelines for contribution limits, which may change annually. Employees should check the latest limits to ensure they are maximizing their contributions.

Can I change my contribution amount to Tetra Tech's 401k plan at any time?

Yes, Tetra Tech allows employees to change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to certain restrictions based on the plan's rules.

What investment options are available in Tetra Tech's 401k plan?

Tetra Tech's 401k plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to help employees diversify their portfolios.

Is there a vesting schedule for Tetra Tech's 401k matching contributions?

Yes, Tetra Tech has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched funds.

How can I access my Tetra Tech 401k account?

Employees can access their Tetra Tech 401k account online through the plan's designated website or by contacting the plan administrator for assistance.

What happens to my Tetra Tech 401k if I leave the company?

If you leave Tetra Tech, you have several options for your 401k, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Tetra Tech plan if allowed.

Does Tetra Tech offer financial education resources for employees regarding the 401k plan?

Yes, Tetra Tech provides financial education resources, including workshops and access to financial advisors, to help employees make informed decisions about their 401k savings.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Tetra Tech at , ; or by calling them at .

*Please see disclaimer for more information

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