Relational Advisors

The Relational team traded the office for the ocean! 🌊💻🌴

Our team’s getaway to Costa Rica brought us closer than ever. From team presentations to beach sunsets, we are so grateful for a team that makes every journey unforgettable. ✨

💡 Healthcare subsidies are at risk—what happens if they disappear?

Today, many individuals earning ~$80k/year pay no more than 8.5% of their income on health insurance, thanks to temporary subsidies introduced during COVID. But those subsidies are set to expire at the end of the year.

If Congress doesn’t act, here’s what’s at stake:

1️⃣ The “subsidy cliff” returns for earners above ~$60k
2️⃣ Older individuals could lose $5K–$10K/year in premium assistance
3️⃣ Age-based pricing could make coverage unaffordable for those in their 50s & 60s

It’s a big deal for individuals buying coverage on the exchange—especially older Americans ineligible for Medicare.



Eric Bricker, MD Ryan Knutson

🚗 Auto repossessions are climbing—and here’s why: people are buying "too much car".

For the last decade, auto lenders have stretched loans to 6–7 years, making high-priced cars feel “affordable.” But cars are depreciating assets, and oversized loans are dragging people down financially.

Here’s a smarter way to buy:
1️⃣ Buy used
2️⃣ Put 20–30% down
3️⃣ Finance for no more than 4 years

If that monthly number doesn’t fit your budget? Mike Rankin says: lower the price. Don’t let your car become an anchor.

Are you buying used for your next car? YES or NO? 👇

📊 The stock market is hot right now—have you rebalanced your 401(k)?

If you're choosing your own 401(k) investments (not in a target date or allocation fund), rebalancing helps keep your portfolio aligned with your long-term strategy. It automatically sells investments that have gone up and shifts those gains into ones that haven’t moved as much.

That’s how you “sell high, buy low”—without needing to be an expert.

✅ Check your account and consider rebalancing now, quarterly, or annually to stay on track.

Title: Budget Alert: Health Insurance Costs Are Exploding

🚨 A Wall Street Journal headline says it all: “Health Insurance Costs for Businesses to Rise by Most in 15 Years.”

If you’re budgeting for 2026, don’t assume 5–7% increases. We’re now seeing 9.5%+ jumps—driven by rising cancer rates in younger people, pricey GLP-1 drugs, and shifts in medical billing.

That means you need to be proactive:
✅ Talk to your broker
✅ Understand your risk pool
✅ Explore self-funded vs. fully insured plans

💡 Our team at Relational Advisors can help you navigate your next health plan renewal with effective strategies.

👉 Ready to get ahead of these cost hikes? Reach out today for a consultation.

🚨 Think twice before cashing out your 401(k).

Mike Rankin breaks down why over 30% of participants who cash out when leaving an employer are costing their future selves hundreds of thousands of dollars.

For example, cashing out $30,000 at age 30 leaves you with ~$18,000 after taxes and penalties. But left invested, that same $30,000 could grow to $400,000+ by retirement.

The smarter move? Budget hard now, pay down debt the right way, and let your retirement savings grow.

Have questions about how to structure a better benefits plan for your team? Reach out to Relational Advisors: https://relational.com/contact

Big changes are coming for employee benefits in 2026.

✅ Telehealth + HSA – Virtual visits can now be paired with HSA plans without disqualification.
✅ Direct Primary Care – Employers can fund up to $150/month (employee) or $300/month (family) without affecting HSA eligibility.
✅ Student Loan Repayment – The $5,250 annual tax-free employer contribution is now permanent.

These updates mean better access to care, stronger plan performance, and meaningful financial support for employees.

👉 Want to explore how to add programs like direct primary care or student loan repayment to your benefits strategy? Reach out to Relational Advisors today: https://relational.com/contact