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A guide to the Federal Employee Insurance Benefits program

The Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program is a good deal that helps employees and their families to safeguard their health while serving the nation. While new plans are added to the already-existing broad range of Federal Employee Insurances, the Blue Cross-Blue Shield health plan is by far the most popular amongst Federal Employees from across the country.

Statistics reveal that less than 10% of Federal Employees switch plans each year; however, it is a good idea to take a fresh look at the list of Federal Employee Insurance plans with respect to changing needs. It would be ideal to examine existing and newer alternatives to gain from better coverage for lesser premium costs. During the open season, review your health insurance coverage on the basis of prevailing health conditions, financial position, and location of work or residence. Decide whether you need dental, vision, general health or life insurance. Else, would you prefer to enroll in the flexible spending account or long-term care insurance coverage? This is the best time to make changes if you are contemplating one.

The full rate chart is available on the official website for the various categories such as the ones mentioned below:

HMO (Regional Plans with Specific Service Areas)
Non-Postal Rates
U.S. Postal Rates
TCC and Former Spouse Rates
FFS (Fee-for-Service/Nationwide Plans)
Non-Postal Rates
U.S. Postal Rates
TCC and Former Spouse Rates

Under the Federal Employee Insurance Benefit scheme, depending on the plan that is chosen, apart from current and retired employees, their spouse (current and ex), children, parents, parents-in-law, and stepparents are also eligible to apply for health insurance coverage as long as the employee themselves are eligible to apply for coverage. This stands well even if they do not apply for it themselves.

Although the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) announced a marginal premium increase in 2018, they simultaneously minimized the revisions in out-of-pocket costs. Incorporated in the year 1960, the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program is not just the biggest insurance sponsored by a single employee but also the best scheme for all beneficiaries.