Lincoln Electric Holdings Retirees Face Rising Health Care Costs: What You Need to Know

'With rising premiums, shifting federal programs, and mounting medical debt, Lincoln Electric Holdings employees must take a more deliberate approach to budgeting for health care in retirement to help avoid financial pitfalls that could derail long-term plans.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'As health care policy continues to evolve, Lincoln Electric Holdings employees should regularly revisit their retirement strategies to account for potential coverage gaps and unexpected medical expenses that could strain fixed budgets.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

How rising health care premiums and shrinking federal support may affect pre-Medicare retirees.
The impact of medical debt, weakened consumer protections, and changing credit rules on retirement outcomes.
Adjustments to Medicaid and government health care programs that could disrupt early retirement plans.

Health Care Costs Continue to Climb for Retirees

The following article has been revised to reflect recent changes in health care policy and economics for individuals with longstanding corporate careers. Lincoln Electric Holdings retirees and employees preparing for retirement are experiencing higher medical expenses, tighter household budgets, and new health care regulations—an especially relevant concern for those managing fixed incomes or long-term savings goals.

Premiums Rising, Coverage Shrinking

One key factor driving up costs is the anticipated end of Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium subsidies. If these subsidies expire, annual out-of-pocket premiums could increase by an average of $1,247—a 75% jump. ¹ This would affect Lincoln Electric Holdings retirees relying on ACA plans prior to Medicare eligibility. Additionally, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), passed in July 2025, calls for nearly $1 trillion in cuts to federal health care spending, with Medicaid bearing the brunt over the next ten years. ²

These reductions could result in up to 10.9 million Americans losing health care coverage by 2034, according to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). ³

Eroding Consumer Protections

Policy changes are also exposing Lincoln Electric Holdings retirees to greater financial stress. A federal ruling overturned a consumer-friendly rule that prevented medical debts over $500 from appearing on credit reports. ⁴ As a result, credit scores for millions could be affected—an issue that carries implications for mortgages, employment applications, and other financial decisions during retirement transitions.

The Weight of Medical Debt

Across the country, medical debt remains a persistent challenge: ⁵

- 40% of adults report having dental or medical debt.
- 1 in 6 borrowed money or used credit cards to pay off medical bills.
- Over 20 million owe $250 or more; 14 million owe over $1,000; and 3 million owe more than $10,000.
- Adults aged 50–64 carry more debt than those 65–79 due to delayed Medicare access.

These statistics underscore the pressure on Lincoln Electric Holdings employees who retire before reaching Medicare eligibility.

Health Decisions at Risk

According to Tyson Mavar, a financial advisor with Wealth Enhancement, 'Credit scores may not be affected for those who hold medical debt, potentially resulting in delayed treatment.' This concern is amplified for Lincoln Electric Holdings retirees who may have limited health care coverage and rising expenses.

While some households cope with medical debt by cutting back on food and housing, depleting savings, or borrowing more, these approaches only serve to contribute to poorer health and higher stress.

Government Program Adjustments

Medicaid changes under OBBBA bring added burdens, particularly for early retirees in rural areas. Adjustments include stricter eligibility verification, new work requirements, and increased co-pays of up to $35 per visit for those near the poverty line. These revisions may impact millions of rural Americans and bring added stress to rural health care facilities that are already stretched thin.

A $50 billion Rural Hospital Transformation Fund was announced, but it is expected to address just 37% of anticipated losses and is set to expire by 2032. ⁶

Why It Matters for Lincoln Electric Holdings Families

Recent health care changes are reshaping retirement planning. Even though Lincoln Electric Holdings offers a range of employee benefits and retirement options, not all workers transition into Medicare or employer-based retiree coverage without gaps. According to Fidelity, a 65-year-old individual retiring in 2025 may need to spend $172,500 health care throughout retirement—not including long-term care. ⁷

Future policy shifts could add thousands more to that estimate. Keeping an eye on health care policy and evaluating benefit elections are now essential components of retirement planning.

The Bottom Line

Navigating today’s health care system is like taking a road trip with higher tolls, fewer exits, and less reliable maps. Lincoln Electric Holdings employees near or in retirement are encountering a shifting landscape of costs, coverage, and legal rules. If these developments are overlooked, retirement plans may be exposed to financial disruptions that are difficult to recover from.

Being proactive with coverage reviews, medical budgeting, and credit management can help retirees steer clear of costly missteps and adapt to an increasingly complex health care environment.

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Sources:

1. Business Insider. “ Millions of Americans could pay up to $1,247 more for Affordable Care Act health insurance next year ,' by Juliana Kaplan, 23 July 2025.

2. The Guardian. “ Democrats Use New Tactic to Highlight Trump’s Gutting of Medicaid ,” by Stephanie Kirchgaessner, 27 July 2025.

3. USA Today. ' Neary 11 million Americians would lose insurance under Trump's tax bill, analysis says ,' by Ken Alltucker, 4 June 2025.

4. Medicare Rights Center. ' Federal Court Reverses Federal Medical Debt Protections ,' by Julie Carter, 31 July 2025.

5. Peterson-KFF, Health System Tracker. ' The burden of medical debt in the United States ,' by S. Rakshit, M. Rae, G. Claxton, K. Amin, and C. Cox, 12 Feb. 2024.

6. KFF. ' A Closer Look at the $50 Billion Rural Health Fund in the New Reconciliation Law ,' by Zachary Levinson and Tricia Neuman, 4 Aug. 2025.

7. Fidelity. ' How to plan for rising health care costs ,' Fidelity Viewpoints, 12 Aug. 2024.

What type of retirement savings plan does Lincoln Electric Holdings offer?

Lincoln Electric Holdings offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan for its employees.

Does Lincoln Electric Holdings match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Lincoln Electric Holdings provides a matching contribution to employee contributions made to the 401(k) plan.

What is the maximum contribution limit for employees in the Lincoln Electric Holdings 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for employees in the Lincoln Electric Holdings 401(k) plan is determined by IRS regulations, which may change annually.

Can employees of Lincoln Electric Holdings choose between different investment options in their 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees of Lincoln Electric Holdings can choose from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan.

When can employees of Lincoln Electric Holdings start participating in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of Lincoln Electric Holdings can typically start participating in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, as outlined in the plan documents.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Lincoln Electric Holdings 401(k) plan?

Yes, Lincoln Electric Holdings has a vesting schedule for employer matching contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.

How can Lincoln Electric Holdings employees access their 401(k) account information?

Lincoln Electric Holdings employees can access their 401(k) account information online through the plan's designated website or by contacting the plan administrator.

Are loans available from the Lincoln Electric Holdings 401(k) plan?

Yes, Lincoln Electric Holdings may allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) balances, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Lincoln Electric Holdings?

If an employee leaves Lincoln Electric Holdings, they have several options regarding their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Lincoln Electric Holdings plan if eligible.

Does Lincoln Electric Holdings offer any financial education resources for 401(k) participants?

Yes, Lincoln Electric Holdings provides financial education resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Lincoln Electric Holdings offers a comprehensive employee retirement program that includes a 401(k) plan known as the "Lincoln Electric Company Employee Savings Plan." This plan allows eligible employees to save for retirement through tax-deferred contributions. Additionally, Lincoln Electric provides a profit-sharing component tied to both company and individual performance. For employees hired before January 1, 2006, Lincoln Electric offers a pension program known as "The Lincoln Electric Company Retirement Annuity Program (RAP)." This pension plan is a defined benefit plan where the company contributes on behalf of its employees. Years of service and age requirements vary depending on the specific plan provisions. Employees qualify for the 401(k) plan based on their employment status and tenure, with the pension formula structured around an average final pay calculation.

Lincoln Electric Holdings reported strong financial performance through 2023, with significant growth in net sales and income across multiple quarters. Despite challenges, the company avoided layoffs, maintaining a longstanding commitment to workforce stability. The company continues to experience growth, with no major layoffs reported since the 1950s, highlighting its resilience in a challenging economy (Lincoln Electric) (Lincoln Electric). Given the current economic environment, it is essential to recognize Lincoln Electric’s strategies for maintaining employee stability while navigating complex global challenges, including tax changes, regulatory adjustments, and market uncertainties. These elements make it crucial to address these developments as they impact employee benefits and future financial planning for stakeholders.

Lincoln Electric Holdings offered stock options to key executives in 2022, 2023, and 2024. RSUs were also offered to mid-level managers, incentivizing long-term performance and loyalty. Dividend equivalents accrued on vested RSUs during these years. Stock options and RSUs were primarily granted to managerial and executive-level employees, making them accessible to those with significant roles in the company’s operations.

Lincoln Electric Holdings has consistently prioritized healthcare for its employees, offering comprehensive benefits that reflect both their commitment to employee well-being and the evolving healthcare landscape. In 2022, Lincoln Electric introduced enhancements to their Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), allowing employees to benefit from tax-advantaged medical savings. The company emphasizes flexibility, offering multiple health plans tailored to meet diverse needs. Key healthcare terms include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans and HRA (Health Reimbursement Arrangement), which support the company’s push toward preventive care and cost-efficient medical coverage (Lincoln Electric) (Lincoln Electric). This focus is essential given the economic uncertainties and rising healthcare costs in recent years. In addition to their robust offerings, Lincoln Electric has adjusted its approach to healthcare in response to broader economic and political trends. The company's employee healthcare news in 2023 highlighted adjustments to premiums and deductible structures, reflecting rising inflation and political discussions around healthcare reform (Home Page) (Lincoln Electric). Addressing these changes is crucial for the company to remain competitive while ensuring employees maintain access to essential care. These shifts in Lincoln Electric's benefits package underscore the importance of adapting healthcare strategies in light of fluctuating tax laws and market conditions.