The Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program is a group health insurance program for those who work for the federal government or certain tribal organizations.
How to Enroll
As a new employee, you may enroll during a 60-day period from when you become eligible for healthcare benefits. Eligibility typically means you have worked for at least 90 days with more than 130 hours per month. You may enroll in or switch plans every year during a period called open season (similar to the Marketplace’s open enrollment), which begins in November and ends in December. You may also enroll outside of open season with a qualifying life event such as a change in household or employment status.
Similar to other employee group plans, a portion of a federal employee’s salary is deducted for premiums. The government shares the cost of the premium with you, typically around 70%.
To enroll, visit the government website for your division. Many employees use Employee Express to sign up or change their plan. While online electronic services are the main way to enroll, there are also over-the-phone resources available. For example, US Postal Service employees may enroll by calling their Employee Service Line. The Office of Personnel Management has a comprehensive list of the different websites here.
Health Benefits
FEHB plans are approved by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and include fee-for-service, PPO, and HMO plans. Plans are offered by private insurers, such as BlueCross BlueShield. Plans differ by state and can be checked here. The OPM also has a plan comparison tool to help you get started.
FEHB plans are ACA-compliant, meaning enrollees enjoy the same rights guaranteed by the Affordable Care Act.
Some FEHB plans may include dental and vision benefits. Most FEHB enrollees purchase separate dental and vision benefits through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). You must be eligible for FEHB plans to be eligible for FEDVIP.
Terminating Coverage
You are guaranteed a 31-day extension of coverage without cost to you if you leave your employment. If you would like to continue your FEHB plan, there are two options to do so:
(1) Similar to COBRA, the Temporary Continuation of Coverage (TCC) is available for 18 months after you separate from or are not eligible for continued coverage under the FEHB. When you elect this option, you must retroactively pay your premiums, which will date back to the beginning of the 31-day extension. You will pay the full premium since the cost is no longer subsidized by the government. For family members who lose coverage because they are no longer eligible family members. For example, through a divorce, continued coverage may be available for up to 36 months.
(2) You may also convert to an individual non-group health benefits contract with your FEHB plan, but must do so within 15 days of employee termination. Conversion contracts include fewer benefits and may require you to pay the full premium. There will be a list of private insurers that are approved by OPM that you may choose from. This is not an option if you cancel your FEHB coverage voluntarily.
For those who are retiring, you may continue with your coverage, with premiums deducted from your annuity. This is only available to those who have had FEHB for at least 5 years before retirement.
And finally, if you would like to buy individual health coverage on the Marketplace, you must use up your TCC eligibility.
Learn more:
Healthcare & Insurance | OPM.gov
Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Facts | OPM.gov
Last Revised June 27th, 2022