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This page can be found on the web at the following url:
http://www.opm.gov/insure/retirees/index.asp?AnswerId=98

Insurance Programs

Retirees or Family Members

Welcome to the insurance services website for Federal retirees and their survivors. Here, you will find various resources to help you and your family make informative choices regarding health, dental, vision, life, and long term care insurance. You can find information about each program by clicking on one of the links below. Each section includes common questions to help guide you to the information you need.

GUIDE ME...

Health

When and how can I make changes to my coverage?

Answer:

During the annual Federal Benefits Open Season (mid-November through mid-December) you may change plans, options, or type of enrollment (Self Only vs. Self and Family). You also may make a change upon experiencing an FEHB-specific Qualifying Life Event (QLE). The QLE determines what type of enrollment change is permitted. The enrollment change must be consistent with the QLE. As an annuitant, you may cancel your enrollment or change to Self Only at any time without experiencing a QLE. Please note that the event of retiring is not a QLE.

You can find information on how to make an enrollment change on our website.

An open season enrollment change is effective on January 1st. An enrollment change based on a QLE is generally effective the first day of the month after the month in which your request for a change is received.

You can find additional information in the FEHB Handbook.