Get OPM SF 2810 Companion Guide

Key Takeaways. To keep their coverage, a federal employee must have been covered by FEHB for five years before they retire. There is an exception to the five-year rule for those who obtained coverage as soon as they were qualified to do so, and you are also allowed to have taken certain breaks from service.

A change in your situation — like getting married, having a baby, or losing health coverage — that can make you eligible for a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to enroll in health insurance outside the yearly Open Enrollment Period.

Best overall: Medicare Medicare is the best health insurance option for seniors and retirees. For those age 65 and older or who have a qualifying disability, the Medicare program will be the cheapest health insurance with the best benefits.

In a word – yes. Federal employees are entitled to keep FEHB coverage even after they retire. However, they must be currently enrolled in the FEHB program, and have been enrolled for the full five years preceding your retirement.

In most cases, if you are a new Federal employee, you are automatically covered by Basic life insurance and your premiums are deducted from your paycheck unless you waive the coverage. In addition to the Basic, there are three forms of Optional insurance you can elect.

Can I keep my health benefits after I retire? Yes, you can keep your existing health benefits coverage if you meet all of the following conditions: You're enrolled in health care insurance under a federal plan when you retire.

When you start working for the federal government, retirement benefits are part of the package. This includes a monthly annuity, which pays you a portion of your salary from the time you retire until you die. In addition to this annuity, you'll be entitled to medical benefits, including health, vision, and dental.

SF 2810, Notice of Change in Health Benefits Enrollment.