In my previous article, we learned how many of our neighbors and families have been considering going uninsured in 2026. At the same time, I’ve spoken with countless seniors who tell me, ‘ we just cannot afford to retire’ . What is causing our senior neighbors to hesitate when seeking to retire? Planning and paying for health insurance are almost always their top obstacle. The Retirement Dilemma Picture this. One spouse is ready to retire. The other is still working, or is younger and not eligible for Medicare yet. This situation is more common than you might think. This is where it gets complicated. Once you turn 65, you typically transition to Medicare. If your spouse is under 65, they can’t join you yet. That younger spouse often needs individual coverage, and if that spouse has health problems, they’re stuck where premiums are based on income. And here is the catch. Those “income-based” costs often hit during your highest-earning years . This means this couple is dealing with higher premiums for the younger spouse, income-based Medicare premiums for the older spouse, and possible surcharges based on income from two years prior. It’s a common and a daunting dilemma. Why It Feels So Expensive Employer-sponsored plans usually cover most or all of your total health insurance premium on your employee only coverage. Take a look at any COBRA documents you’ve gotten before. COBRA quotes give you the whole cost of your previous work insurance. The difference is what your employer had been paying on your behalf. When you stop working, those dollars stop too. More commonly, aging adults have dependent grandchildren to consider. Situation and costs can quickly become overwhelming, What About HSAs? Many higher-income families rely on the tax advantages of a Health Savings Account (HSA). Each year the IRS limits how much money you can put into an HSA yearly. In 2026, the HSA limit is $4,400 for individuals and $8,750 for families. Note you get an extra +$1,000 to your limit turning age 55. But there’s a key limitation. Once you enroll in Medicare Part A, you can no longer contribute to an HSA. You lose a significant and valuable tax strategy. A Different Approach to Medicare If this sounds familiar, you are not without hope. Your membership in your Valley Crossroads Chamber of Commerce allows you to explore rare and alternative Medicare strategies from partnerships like Select Health, Fenyx and EMI. Some plans allow you to: Receive funds that would normally go to insurance companies Get an annual deposit into a Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) Use those funds to cover qualified medical expenses Even reimburse yourself for certain Medicare-related costs when done compliantly These approaches may provide you substantial and value flexibility and relief. For retirees managing income-based premiums and surcharges, these options can be a lifesaver. Why This Matters Many tell me they do not delay retirement because they want to keep working. They delay retirement because health insurance feels unaffordable. With the right strategy, your health insurance affordability may be more available than you originally thought. Let’s Talk About Your Options As a member of the Valley Crossroads Chamber of Commerce, you have access to a range of health coverage solutions. These options include business owners, solopreneurs transitioning from W-2 roles, founders planning an exit and employees approaching retirement. If you’re trying to make retirement work financially, or simply want to understand your options, reach out to the Chamber or connect with us directly here . Schedule a meeting with Josh HERE ________________________________ Facebook: @Josh.e223 Instagram: /joshuae223 LinkedIn: @joshuaerickson1a

In the daily hustle of running a business, it’s easy to lose sight of your financial arrangements. Accounts such as operating and reserve funds, business credit cards, and cash management services often go unchecked. Taking time for an annual financial check-up is essential for ensuring you get the best rates and services from your financial institution. This proactive step can lead to significant savings and greater financial stability. Why regular financial reviews matter Many business owners rarely review their banking setup, missing out on chances to optimize. A regular financial review helps identify savings opportunities because the market is dynamic. A simple comparison between your current institution and their competitors can reveal if you’re in the best possible financial position. Savings interest rates: small differences add up Start your check-up by looking at savings interest rates and certificates of deposit if these are part of your financial strategy. These can vary widely between institutions, and even small differences can have a big long-term impact—especially for businesses with sizable cash reserves. Make it a habit to compare rates and ensure you're earning the best return on your funds. Reassessing loan interest rates Loan rates are another critical area. Market changes can render once-competitive rates outdated. By reviewing current loan agreements, businesses might find opportunities to refinance at lower rates. This can lead to substantial savings on interest payments. Financial advisors can also help identify these opportunities and guide the refinancing process. Credit card rates and rewards If your business carries a credit card balance, interest rates can become a silent cost drain. It’s worth comparing options across providers for lower rates. Also, take a fresh look at your card’s rewards program. Choosing a card that offers benefits like cash back, travel points, or business discounts—aligned with your spending habits—can unlock additional value. Beyond rates: evaluating business services Don’t stop at rates. Take time to assess the full suite of services your financial institution offers— like payroll processing, merchant services, and business checking accounts. These often come with fees that differ from one provider to the next. Comparing these costs helps ensure you’re not overpaying for essential services. Fraud and insurance risk management In addition to reviewing financial services, businesses should assess their insurance coverage—including general liability, property, and cyber insurance—to ensure it aligns with current operations. Needs can shift as a business grows, so regular check-ins help avoid coverage gaps. It's also wise to review fraud prevention tools in place, such as transaction alerts or multi-user permissions for financial accounts. These areas are often overlooked but can play a key role in protecting a business from unexpected financial losses. Real-world example: big savings through a simple review* During a recent financial review, a professional client in the medical field was found to be maintaining an average of $4 million across three separate banking institutions. Despite this substantial balance, they were earning a negligible 0.01% interest and incurring monthly fees of around $150 per account. Further analysis revealed they were actively using various cash management services like ACH, remote deposit, and wire transfers. After reassessing the structure of their accounts and consolidating their banking relationship, not only were multiple business entities brought under one roof, but the client also gained access to optimized cash management solutions including electronic payment collection, direct deposit, wire transfers, and lines of credit. The result? Instead of paying fees, they’re now earning approximately $10,000 per month in dividends. This example highlights how an annual financial check-up can uncover inefficiencies and significantly improve both service quality and financial outcomes. DIY financial check-ups: tools that help You don’t need a finance degree to perform a basic review. Online tools like NerdWallet, Bankrate, and Investopedia make it easy to compare loan rates, deposit interest rates, and credit card offers. Many accounting software platforms, including QuickBooks and FreshBooks, also include built-in financial comparison tools. These resources can help you quickly identify better options tailored to your business needs. Conclusion: a small investment for long-term gains An annual financial check-up is a smart move for any business aiming to stay financially healthy. Regularly reviewing your savings rates, loans, credit cards, and financial services can reveal costsaving opportunities and better deals. Whether you consult a financial advisor or use online tools, investing just a little time can lead to long-term savings and stronger financial footing. About Nathan Anderson Nathan Anderson is the chief operating officer and executive vice president at Mountain America Credit Union, where he oversees day-to-day operations across the Member Service and Lending departments and leads more than 2,800 employees. He joined the credit union in 2004 and previously held key sales and marketing roles, including vice president of sales and chief marketing officer, after earlier work in consumer product marketing with Black & Decker and Newell Rubbermaid. Active in the business community, he serves on several boards, including the South Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee, the Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield community board, and the Origence Advisory Council. A BYU marketing graduate, Anderson has earned honors such as CXO of the Year, Utah’s 40 Under 40 and the Trailblazer Award. He is an avid cyclist who enjoys travel, golf and time with his family. *Insured by NCUA, membership based on eligibility and loans on approved credit.

Where Do We Find Ourselves Today? I spoke to more families than ever before considering going without insurance in 2026. Many feel stuck. With Marketplace changes like subsidy-cliffs, a 200-300% higher than normal health insurance cost increase and less government help to pay for these increases – people are asking us: “ How are we supposed to pay to cover our family and our employees this year?” It is clear: many of our local residents are feeling uncertain, scared and desperate. Perhaps you find yourself in a scenario like these: A young couple getting married, or having your first child A family losing their health benefits after losing your job Turning 26 and losing your parent’s coverage Graduating from college and losing your university health plan, often with significant debt Work is paying little or nothing for your spouse or kids’ coverage Your retirement is coming but looming Medicare premiums are obstacles Or perhaps you are simply paying thousands of dollars for a plan you rarely ever use If your health plan feels like adding an involuntary second mortgage to your budget, what are your alternatives? There is an important distinction in the health space we need to touch on: Not all plans are created equal. Understanding Options: True Health Insurance vs. Health Shares True health insurance is regulated by each state's department of insurance. This means that, if you receive a medical bill that should be covered based on your policy, you can hold your insurance company accountable with the support of state agencies. In contrast, Health Shares are not considered insurance. They are non-insurance organizations that collect monthly fees with the promise of covering medical bills. With a Health Share, you have no legal recourse with the state to compel coverage. If things go wrong, your only option is to pursue a civil lawsuit. Many families would prefer to stay outside of a court room, especially during a major medical crisis. Additionally, no Health Share gives you access to a Health Savings Account (HSA). For many of my clients, their best strategy has been to either combine an Aflac-style supplemental insurance plan and add to savings each month (think “buy term, invest the difference”), or to opt for an underwritten plan perhaps with an HSA attached. Marketplace Alternatives: Private Underwritten Medical Plans One marketplace alternative is Private, Underwritten Medical plans. These plans are available all year – often starting coverage mid-month. Many are HSA-eligible and some cover maternity and delivery. One major advantage is your monthly cost will not change, even if your speculative investments in bitcoin suddenly turn into a windfall. The IRS is not involved and you avoid the tax-season panic with marketplace plans. Though private, underwritten plans often have pre-existing health exclusions you will want to be well informed of. Employer Group Benefit Plans If you’re unable to qualify for underwritten plans, or you need something more closely aligned with marketplace plans, Employer Group Benefit Plans might be a great option. If you own a business with at least two employees (even just you and your spouse), you can choose a Group Benefit plan. These plans offer coverage similar to marketplace plans without pre-existing condition exclusions. You may receive tax benefits by paying through your business, and certainly avoid the pitfalls of marketplace subsidy cliffs as your income rises. However, recent changes to Utah state law require at least 10 employees to be enrolled in an underwritten group benefit plan for eligibility, with some carriers setting a 15-enrollment minimum. The Chamber’s Group Benefit Plan If the cost of a group benefit plan is prohibitive, or if underwritten plans do not fit your needs, you are not out of luck! Your local Valley Crossroad Chamber of commerce offers members a group benefit plan. As a member, your family and employees are eligible to participate in our Association Group Benefit Plan —providing marketplace-like coverage at better rates. In Conclusion If you're struggling with an involuntary second mortgage from your medical plan, you have options! Each option has its own pros and cons. Most people just want to know what to expect and find a solution to meet their family’s needs. I’m here to help! Whether you want to discuss your options with the Chamber, or work directly with me, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s walk through the best options together. Schedule a meeting with Josh HERE ________________________________ Facebook: @Josh.e223 Instagram: /joshuae223 LinkedIn: @joshuaerickson1a

Running a successful business isn’t just about great products or services – it’s about building relationships, staying visible, and being part of a thriving local economy. One often overlooked resource is your local chamber of commerce. These organizations offer a wealth of benefits, from legislative advocacy to excellent networking opportunities, making them an invaluable partner for businesses of all sizes. Here’s why getting involved with your local chamber of commerce can be a game-changer for your business. Chamber 101 A chamber of commerce is a local organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the interests of businesses within a community. It serves as a hub for business owners, providing resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy on legislative issues. Chambers of commerce work closely with local and state governments to influence policies that benefit the business community. They also host events, workshops, and seminars to foster professional development and collaboration among members. Legislative advocacy Among the many roles chambers of commerce play, legislative advocacy stands out as one of the most critical. Chambers have strong relationships with local legislative and state districts, making them powerful allies for businesses. The most effective chambers are excellent at this, meeting with legislators quarterly, weekly, and annually, depending on the legislative session. This association is invaluable because it keeps you informed about changes in the law that could impact your business. Staying connected with what’s happening in the legislature helps protect your business and serve your customers better. Networking opportunities Large chambers of commerce are particularly known for their robust networking opportunities. They bring in speakers, host lunches, and organize events that provide education and local connections at a low cost. These events are not just about learning; they are also about meeting other business owners, potential clients, and partners. While large chambers of commerce are renowned for their extensive networking opportunities and resources, small chambers offer unique advantages that are equally valuable for businesses. They provide increased visibility, tailored support, and resources that cater specifically to local needs. Additionally, small chambers are more flexible and responsive to changes in the local business environment, offering timely support and resources. By being involved with both large and small chambers, businesses can maximize their benefits and thrive in their local communities, as they become part of a powerful organization where businesses, school districts, and legislators come together to collaborate and support each other. Professional Development Joining a chamber of commerce offers excellent professional development opportunities. Many chambers have a network of volunteers and board members who are involved in the strategy and future direction of the chamber. Serving on a board or committee not only enhances your resume but also allows you to build relationships and give back to the community. It’s a great way to develop leadership skills and gain visibility in your local business community. Staying informed Chambers of commerce are a powerful tool to stay connected and informed about local business trends and legislative changes. They play a huge role in keeping businesses updated on what’s happening in the law, which is crucial for making informed decisions and staying compliant with regulations. Tips for New Businesses If you’re new to the business community, here are some tips to get involved with your local chamber of commerce: Attend member orientation sessions: These are usually held over breakfast or lunch. They are a valuable resource to learn about the chamber and its benefits. Evaluate before joining: You can attend events and check out the chamber’s website before committing to membership. This helps ensure the chamber is the right fit for your business. Volunteer on a committee: Volunteering allows you to work on projects with other members, helping you build stronger relationships and balance your business needs. Use your best judgment: Every community is different, so find the chamber that best fits your business needs. Smaller chambers can also offer significant benefits, providing a more personalized and supportive environment, often at a lower cost than larger chambers. By choosing the right chamber and actively participating, you can build strong connections, stay ahead of legislative changes, and contribute to the economic vitality of your community. Embrace the opportunities that come with chamber membership and watch your business thrive! Driving Business Forward Chambers of commerce are indispensable allies for businesses, offering a strategic edge through advocacy, networking, professional development, and staying informed. By actively engaging with both large and small chambers, businesses can harness these benefits to drive growth and success in their local communities. About Sharlene Wells From Utah’s Miss America to Emmy-nominated ESPN sports broadcaster, Sharlene Wells has had a remarkable career. She covered prestigious events like World Cup Soccer and Kentucky Derby, produced documentaries and books for the Department of Defense, earning a role on the Defense Advisory Committee for Women in Services and a public service medal in 2018. Now Senior Vice President at Mountain America, she is recognized as a “Woman of the Year” by Utah Business magazine and a “trailblazer” by Ragan Communications. Sharlene holds degrees from BYU and U of U, serving on boards like AMAR International and USO Intermountain Advisory Council. She has four children, and is passionate about traveling, hiking, biking and most especially, being with her family.

You are not alone. Many woke up shocked at their increase in health insurance bill on January 1st, 2026. Your marketplace plan costs are so high this year are for three main reasons. We returned to original government subsidies, the health insurance market increase 15-35%, and we returned to the original subsidy cliff at 400% FPL (Federal Poverty Level). Understanding the Healthcare Marketplace The healthcare.gov marketplace is a platform for various health insurance companies to offer health insurance plans. These plans must meet certain requirements. Some requirements include no pre-existing conditions, requiring coverage for therapy, specialty drugs, pregnancy and delivery. The program sometimes allows government money to pay for parts of your health insurance cost. The ACA started in 2013. These plans have been simple-to-use, work like employer group plans and often low cost. Those with lower income and/or high medical care needs find the most use of healthcare.gov plans. Health insurance plans not on healthcare.gov do not have the same rules and coverage requirements. What is Federal Poverty Level (FPL)? Federal Poverty Level (FPL) is a formula of your family size and your household income. How much total money each member will earn for the year and your total family size fits you into an FPL percentage. This tells the government how much you pay and how much they pay. The 400% Subsidy Cliff One of the biggest drawbacks of the ACA is the 400% FPL subsidy cliff. This means if the combination of your income and family size exceeds 400% FPL, you will pay 100% of the cost. Only $1 over the cliff and you pay 100% of the health insurance costs for the entire year. Pandemic-Era Changes to Healthcare Subsidies In 2020, the US government declared a pandemic over a coronavirus outbreak. Emergency authorizations allowed the government to expand their funding to programs. Programs like Medicaid and healthcare.gov received temporary funding and looser rules. Healthcare.gov plans had two massive changes: The subsidy cliff extended to 750% of the Federal Poverty Level The government began paying more than normal Let's give you an example. Say your ratio 50% of the health insurance bill. After the emergency authorization, your cost was only 20% of the bill – at the same income and family size. These extra government payments stayed constant for nearly four years. Many thought these temporary changes was how it always been and became normal. Political Uncertainty and the 2025 Government Shutdown Last fall, two extra pressures caused more uncertainty and confusion. The extra emergency government help was set to expire at the end of 2025. Congress was to vote if they would extend the extra help, or return back to the original. This became a hot button topic. Congress shut down the government. This resulted in 30 days shorter open enrollment window to choose the right plans. No one knew if the plans would cost you 20% or the original 50% of the total insurance cost. Those who are in the 400+% subsidy cliff did not know if they would be get any help or if they were going to pay 100% of the costs. We dealt with many frustrations and much uncertainty. Congress Returns to the Original Rules Congress made a final vote after open enrollment. In January 2026, Congress chose to go back to the original rates and rules. If you saw your health insurance costs jumped 2-3x or 10x, you may now know a bit more why! The combination of government shut down and delayed voting is what made this such a surprise. Returning to original government subsidy, 400% FPL, and the large health insurance rates caused increases. Congress' delayed voting and shut down caused the surprises and Good News: There Are Other Options The good news: if you’re considering going uninsured mid-year or having trouble paying your premiums, it is not too late to explore true insurance not on the marketplace. Reach out to the Chamber for our group benefit and retiree benefit plans available to you as a chamber member! Guest Blogger: Joshua Erickson Eagle Mountain resident Joshua Erickson is a seasoned insurance strategist with seven years of industry experience and going on fifth successful open enrollment cycle. An honors Finance graduate from UVU and a Wolverine Fund alumnus, he leverages his high-level analytical background to bring Wall Street-level precision to local benefits planning. Joshua Erickson specializes in stabilizing corporate budgets by securing level and flat renewals for employee and retiree benefits, while also providing sophistic ated advocacy for individuals targeted by the IRS. By bridging the gap between complex finance and practical coverage, he delivers predictable, long-term stability for his neighbors and their businesses. _______________________________________ Facebook: @Josh.e223 Instagram: /joshuae223 LinkedIn: @joshuaerickson1a

How to Stop Being the Best-Kept Secret inTown

Valley Crossroads Chamber members gathered at Village Baker in Saratoga Springs for Flash Lunch networking and community connections.

Mayor Chris Carn and Congressman Burgess Owens testified before Congress supporting the Saratoga Springs Post Office Act.

Jr. Chamber Makerspace Open Lab in Eagle Mountain gives students hands-on experience with 3D printing, podcasting, design tools, and entrepreneurship.