The next Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Open Season will take place from November 11, 2024, to December 9, 2024. This is the designated period when you can make changes to your FEHB plan, which will go into effect in 2025.
Why Open Season Matters
Most FEHB plans will undergo changes in premiums and benefits for the upcoming year. Additionally, some plans may withdraw from the program, adjust their service areas, or alter their coverage options. Open Season allows you to review and compare available plans to ensure you have the most suitable coverage for you and your family in 2025. Best of all, there are no waiting periods or exclusions for pre-existing conditions when you make changes during this period.
Tips for Comparing FEHB Plans
If your healthcare needs have changed, it may be time to update your insurance plan. Open Season is the ideal time to consider what your healthcare requirements will be in 2025 and whether you can save on out-of-pocket expenses. Take the time to review plan brochures carefully and ask yourself these questions:
- Will my spouse or I require surgery next year?
- Will our prescription needs change in 2025?
- Will we need only routine dental care, or will more extensive care be necessary?
- Are any services we might need next year excluded from our current plan(s)?
Keep in mind that if you take no action during Open Season, your current health and dental coverage will automatically continue.
How Changes to Your FEHB Enrollment Can Occur
Even if you are satisfied with your current FEHB coverage, you may need to select a new plan if your current plan:
- Withdraws from the FEHB Program entirely.
- Reduces its service area and eliminates its enrollment code.
- Reduces its service area but retains its enrollment code.
- Discontinues a coverage option.
If any of these changes affect your enrollment, you will receive a letter notifying you that your plan is no longer participating in the FEHB Program or providing services in your area. It is essential to follow the instructions provided in the letter from your plan.
Making Changes Outside of Open Season
You can make changes to your FEHB coverage outside of Open Season if you experience a Qualifying Life Event (QLE) as defined by the OPM. Examples include a change in family status, such as marriage or divorce, a change in employment status, or the loss of FEHB or other healthcare coverage for you or a family member. For full details, visit the OPM website’s page on QLEs.
