LKQ Retirees Face Rising Health Care Costs: What You Need to Know

'With rising premiums, shifting federal programs, and mounting medical debt, LKQ 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, LKQ 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. LKQ 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 LKQ 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 LKQ 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 LKQ 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 LKQ 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 LKQ Families

Recent health care changes are reshaping retirement planning. Even though LKQ 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. LKQ 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 LKQ offer to its employees?

LKQ offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

How can employees at LKQ enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at LKQ can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does LKQ provide any matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, LKQ offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees boost their retirement savings.

What is the vesting schedule for LKQ's 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for LKQ's matching contributions typically follows a standard schedule, which employees can review in the plan documents.

Are there any fees associated with LKQ's 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with LKQ's 401(k) plan, and employees can find detailed information in the plan's summary.

Can employees at LKQ take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, LKQ allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

What investment options are available in LKQ’s 401(k) plan?

LKQ’s 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

How often can LKQ employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at LKQ can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, typically through the HR portal or by contacting HR.

Is there a minimum contribution requirement for LKQ's 401(k) plan?

Yes, LKQ may have a minimum contribution requirement, which employees can find detailed information about in the plan documents.

What is the maximum contribution limit for LKQ's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for LKQ's 401(k) plan is in accordance with IRS guidelines, which are updated annually.

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

LKQ Corporation provides its employees with a 401(k) plan known as the LKQ Corporation Employees' Retirement Plan. This plan is managed through Principal and covers over 22,000 employees. Eligible employees can participate by contributing a portion of their salary, and LKQ offers a matching contribution. As of 2022, LKQ allocated $17.6 million in matching contributions, with a discretionary match rate of 48.75% based on the participant’s deferrals. The 401(k) plan includes pre-tax and Roth after-tax contributions, and the company match vests incrementally—50% after two years, 75% after three years, and 100% after four years of service. This allows employees to maximize their retirement savings while maintaining control over their contributions and investments. LKQ’s retirement benefits primarily focus on their 401(k) plan, and the plan year runs from January 1st to December 31st. Although the company's focus is more on 401(k), there is also a provision for employees to roll over old 401(k) accounts into this plan or withdraw funds, subject to tax penalties if applicable (SEC.gov) (Capitalize).

In 2023 and 2024, LKQ Corporation has undergone a significant restructuring effort aimed at streamlining operations across its global footprint. The company implemented a Global Restructuring Plan to enhance operational efficiency, divesting from non-strategic markets and optimizing its core businesses. This restructuring aligns with the broader market pressures of increased competition and fluctuating economic conditions, particularly in the automotive aftermarket industry (GuruFocus) (GlobeNewswire). Additionally, LKQ acquired Uni-Select in 2024, marking a strategic move to expand its geographical reach and customer base, particularly in Europe (GlobeNewswire). Given the current economic uncertainties and tax implications, addressing the restructuring news is crucial for investors and stakeholders. It highlights how companies like LKQ are adapting to market demands, enhancing their financial health, and positioning themselves for future growth. LKQ Corporation Alongside restructuring, LKQ has maintained a focus on employee benefits and pensions. The company's 401(k) plan allows employees to make pre-tax and Roth contributions, with a gradual vesting schedule based on years of service (LKQ Europe). However, LKQ has faced challenges with maintaining its financial standing due to external pressures such as economic instability in its operational regions (North America, Europe, Taiwan). This instability could affect LKQ’s ability to maintain competitive employee benefits in the future (GlobeNewswire). The global economic environment, changing tax laws, and the company's ongoing restructuring make it vital to review these changes as they may impact long-term employee financial security and influence future corporate strategies. Investors and employees alike should be informed of these developments, as they directly impact the company’s workforce and operational capabilities.

LKQ Corporation provides stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its compensation packages, designed to reward employees and align their interests with shareholders. The specific details of these benefits have evolved over the years, with notable updates in 2022, 2023, and 2024. For stock options, LKQ grants options to purchase company shares at a predetermined price, often the market value at the time of the grant. These options typically vest over a period, meaning employees must remain with the company for a certain number of years before they can exercise their options. LKQ uses the acronym "SO" to refer to these stock options. RSUs at LKQ are typically granted to senior management and key employees. RSUs represent a promise to deliver shares of LKQ stock once certain conditions, such as continued employment over a vesting period, are met. Unlike stock options, RSUs do not require the employee to pay an exercise price. The acronym "RSU" is commonly used within LKQ to refer to these units. The 2022 and 2023 annual reports indicate that these stock-based compensation plans are key to retaining top talent. For 2024, LKQ continues to expand its RSU offerings to more employees as part of its commitment to competitive compensation. Employees eligible for these benefits are typically those in management roles or those who have been identified as critical to the company's strategic initiatives.

LKQ Corporation offers its employees a comprehensive range of health benefits, which includes medical, dental, and vision coverage. The company's health plans are designed with a focus on affordability and preventive care, offering options for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). LKQ’s plans also emphasize wellness initiatives, such as telehealth services, to ensure employees have access to care when needed. In recent years, the company has incorporated high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) to manage costs, alongside the traditional Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans. Employees have expressed that while the coverage is solid, out-of-pocket costs for some services, especially under the HDHPs, can be significant. LKQ has made a concerted effort to balance premium costs with coverage comprehensiveness, which has been well-received by its workforce. The importance of monitoring LKQ's health benefits closely is magnified by the ongoing economic and political shifts in healthcare regulations and taxation policies. With increasing healthcare costs and the potential for changes in healthcare law, companies like LKQ are under pressure to continuously adapt their benefits offerings. In the context of rising inflation and economic uncertainty, maintaining affordable yet comprehensive coverage becomes critical for both the employees and the company. Additionally, as LKQ continues to expand and integrate acquisitions, such as Uni-Select, it must ensure that its healthcare offerings remain competitive across its diverse workforce. Addressing these benefits within this volatile economic and political landscape is essential for retaining talent and managing operational costs (Investor Relations) (Nasdaq).