Federal Employees Health Benefits Open Season

Open Season for federal employees and retirees presents a valuable opportunity to review current health coverage, explore different options, and make informed decisions about future benefits. This period also marks the inaugural launch of the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program, introducing a significant shift for nearly 2 million Postal employees, retirees, and their eligible family members. The PSHB Program is now the largest health benefit exchange since the Affordable Care Act.

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More than 90% of Postal employees will be automatically transitioned into a PSHB plan that closely mirrors their existing Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plan, provided the carrier continues to offer that plan under PSHB. Those satisfied with their assigned plan do not need to take further action during this Open Season.

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For 2025, the FEHB Program features 42 carriers offering a total of 64 plans and 130 plan options. A key highlight this year is the inclusion of fertility benefits across all plans, providing coverage for artificial insemination and IVF-related drug components for up to three cycles. In addition, 25 FEHB plans will offer enhanced IVF benefits, covering full or partial costs of the associated medical procedures.

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The Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) for 2025 includes 12 dental and five vision carriers. Eligible enrollees can select dental and/or vision coverage for themselves and their qualified dependents, including spouses and children under 22, or over 22 if incapable of self-support.

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Open Season also allows federal employees to make pre-tax contributions to healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts through the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS). Know about fehb premium increase 2025.

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Key Benefit Enhancements for 2025

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OPM announced significant updates for the upcoming year. Notably, all FEHB participants will have access to plans covering IVF services and procedures, with drug-related IVF treatments available for up to three cycles annually. Additionally, 25 FEHB plans with 45 options will extend coverage beyond these requirements.

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Behavioral health services also see increased emphasis for 2025. Carriers are mandated to provide comprehensive support for individuals using anti-obesity medications, including related diet and exercise plans. Enhanced access to mental health and substance use disorder treatments is a key focus, addressing public health priorities like the COVID-19 pandemic, youth mental health challenges, and the opioid crisis.

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These developments reflect OPM’s ongoing commitment to broadening healthcare access and improving benefit offerings for federal employees and retirees.

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Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Open Season FAQs

1. What is the FEHB Open Season?

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It's the annual period when federal employees can:

Enroll in, cancel, or change their health insurance plan. 

Enroll or re-enroll in the Flexible Spending Accounts Program. 

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2. When is the 2025 FEHB Open Season?

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November 11, 2024, to December 9, 2024.

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3. Who is Eligible For The FEHB Open Season?

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Generally, all permanent federal civilian employees.   

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4. What Changes Can I Make During Open Season?

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Switch between different health insurance plans offered through the FEHB program.   

Adjust your Flexible Spending Account contributions.