Since Uncle Sam continues to pay as much as 75% of your premium, your Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) may well be your most valuable benefit in retirement. It’s important to have the most current information because, if you lose FEHB in retirement, you’ll never be able to re-enroll.
Am I Eligible To Carry FEHB Into Retirement?
To meet the requirements for continuing your FEHB coverage in retirement, you must:
- Retire on an immediate annuity for civilian employees, including FERS MRA + 10 retirements (that is, an annuity which begins to accrue no later than one month after the date of your final separation)
- Have been continuously enrolled (or covered as a family member) in any FEHB Program plan (not necessarily the same plan) for the five years of service immediately preceding retirement or, if less than five years, for all service since your first opportunity to enroll. (The time you are covered under Tricare counts toward the 5 years as long as you were covered under an FEHB enrollment at the time of your retirement.)
“The only time you can change your FEHB enrollment is during the annual Open Season or when you experience a QLE.”
Can I change my FEHB enrollment at retirement?
No. You can’t change your FEHB plan when you separate from service because retirement is not considered a qualifying life event (QLE). The only time you can change your FEHB enrollment is during the annual Open Season or when you experience a QLE.
Will My FEHB Coverage & Premium Change When I Retire?
No. Your FEHB coverage and premium remains the same and the federal government continues to pay the same portion of your premium. Based on a formula determined law, the government pays up to 75% of your FEHB premium and you’re responsible for paying the rest, typically about 30%. Direct post-tax premium payments are deducted from your monthly pension. If it’s not enough to cover the cost, you can pay your premiums through automatic bank withdrawals.
Can I Cancel My FEHB Plan After I Retire Then Reenroll Later?
No. If you cancel your FEHB enrollment as an annuitant, you’ll never be able to re-enroll. (Note: you may suspend FEHB to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, TRICARE, CHAMPVA, or Medicaid. For details, call OPM’s Retirement Information Office at 1-888-767-6738.)
Can My Family Members Continue FEHB When I Die?
Yes. If you’re enrolled in a Self Plus One or Self and Family plan at the time of your death, and at least one family member is entitled to a survivor annuity under FERS/CSRS, family members can continue FEHB.
For more information, download FEHB Fast Facts and the FEHB Handbook.
