Health insurance is vital for federal employees and their families. The Federal Employee Program Health Insurance, known as the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program, offers a wide range of plans.
It’s designed to provide comprehensive coverage with flexibility. This guide explains the program in simple terms for 2025.
What Is Federal Employee Program Health Insurance?
The Federal Employee Program Health Insurance is a system for federal workers. Established in 1960, it’s managed by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
It covers over 8 million employees, retirees, and dependents. It’s one of the largest employer-sponsored health programs in the U.S.
The FEHB offers multiple plan types, including PPOs, HMOs, and high-deductible plans. Employees choose from about 180 plans nationwide.
The government shares premium costs, making it affordable. Federal Employee Program Health Insurance ensures access to quality care.
Why Choose FEHB?
The FEHB program provides unmatched choice. With dozens of plans, you can pick one that fits your needs. Plans cover essential services like hospital stays and prescriptions. This flexibility suits diverse health and budget requirements.
It’s also reliable for retirees. If enrolled for five years before retirement, you keep coverage. The government pays about 63–75% of premiums. This makes FEHB a trusted option for federal workers.
How FEHB Works
FEHB plans require a monthly or biweekly premium. The government covers a portion, typically 63–75%. You pay the rest through payroll or annuity deductions. Plans vary in cost and coverage, from low-premium HMOs to flexible PPOs.
You choose a plan during open enrollment or after a qualifying life event. Coverage includes doctor visits, preventive care, and emergencies. Use OPM’s comparison tools to find the best plan.
Key Plan Types
- PPO Plans: Flexible, with in-network and out-of-network coverage.
- HMO Plans: Lower costs but limited to in-network providers.
- High-Deductible Plans: Pair with HSAs for tax savings.
- Consumer-Driven Plans: Offer flexibility with health reimbursement accounts.
These options make Federal Employee Program Health Insurance versatile.
Costs of FEHB in 2025
FEHB premiums are rising in 2025. The average increase is 13.5%, the largest in a decade. Individual plans average $897 monthly, with the government covering $414–$991 depending on enrollment type. Family plans range from $1,956 to $2,149 monthly.
Copays are typically $20–$50 for in-network care. Deductibles range from $1,000 to $8,000, depending on the plan. Out-of-network care has higher costs and requires claims.
Table: Sample FEHB Plan Costs (Monthly, 2025)
| Plan Type | Premium (Self Only) | Deductible | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPO | $500–$900 | $1,000–$3,000 | Flexibility seekers |
| HMO | $400–$700 | $1,500–$5,000 | Budget-conscious |
| HDHP | $300–$600 | $3,000–$8,000 | Healthy individuals |
This table shows estimated costs. Check OPM’s website for exact rates.
Who Can Enroll in FEHB?
Most federal employees qualify for FEHB. This includes full-time, part-time, and some temporary workers. Retirees are eligible if enrolled for five years before retirement. Family members, like spouses and children under 26, can be covered.
Postal Service employees now use the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program in 2025. PSHB mirrors FEHB but requires Medicare Part B for retirees. Eligibility rules ensure broad access to coverage.
Benefits of Federal Employee Program Health Insurance
FEHB offers comprehensive coverage. Plans include hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescriptions. Preventive care, like screenings and vaccines, is often free. This promotes long-term health.
The program’s large network includes over 2 million providers. Telehealth and mental health services are expanding in 2025. You can also access care worldwide, ideal for travelers. These benefits make FEHB a top choice.
Additional Perks
- No Pre-Existing Condition Limits: Coverage regardless of health history.
- Telehealth Access: Virtual visits for convenience.
- Wellness Programs: Incentives for healthy habits.
- Global Coverage: Care available internationally.
These features enhance Federal Employee Program Health Insurance.
How to Enroll in FEHB
Enroll through your agency’s HR office or Employee Express. New employees have 60 days to join a plan. Open enrollment runs from November 11 to December 9, 2025. Qualifying life events, like marriage, allow changes outside this period.
Use OPM’s plan comparison tool, available in November. It shows premiums, benefits, and provider networks. Submit changes via My EPP or SF-2809 forms for some updates. Contact your HR for guidance.
Tips for Choosing a Plan
- Check Networks: Ensure your doctors are in-network.
- Compare Costs: Balance premiums with deductibles and copays.
- Review Benefits: Look for coverage of specific needs, like mental health.
- Use OPM Tools: Explore the online comparison tool for clarity.
These steps simplify your plan selection.
FEHB in 2025: What’s New
Premiums are increasing by 13.5% in 2025. This reflects rising provider costs and prescription drug use. Mental health and obesity management benefits are expanding. Plans must cover GLP-1 drugs for weight loss and offer more telehealth options.
OPM is streamlining processes. Online claims filing and provider lookup tools are improving. Some plans are leaving FEHB, so check if yours is affected. Stay updated via OPM’s website.
Comparing FEHB Plans
FEHB offers PPOs, HMOs, and HDHPs. PPOs provide flexibility but higher premiums. HMOs are cheaper but restrict you to in-network providers. HDHPs pair with HSAs, ideal for healthy individuals with lower premiums.
Use OPM’s comparison tool to evaluate plans. It shows costs, benefits, and provider availability. Compare at least three plans to find the best value. This ensures you get the right coverage.
FEHB for Retirees
Retirees can continue FEHB if enrolled for five years before retirement. Coverage remains the same as for active employees. Premiums are paid monthly, not biweekly, and aren’t pre-tax. Medicare coordination is required for those 65+.
Medicare Parts A and B complement FEHB. Some plans offer lower premiums with Medicare. Check with your plan for coordination details. This ensures seamless coverage in retirement.
Using FEHB Coverage
Find in-network providers via your plan’s website or app. Show your ID card at visits to avoid upfront costs. In-network care has lower copays, typically $20–$50. Out-of-network care requires claims and higher payments.
For emergencies, any provider is covered, but notify your plan. Use telehealth for minor issues to save time. Review your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to track costs. This keeps your expenses manageable.
Limitations of FEHB
FEHB premiums are rising faster than inflation. The 13.5% increase in 2025 may strain budgets. Out-of-network care is costly and involves paperwork. Some plans have high deductibles, especially HDHPs.
Not all plans cover every service, like cosmetic procedures. Pre-authorization may be required for certain treatments. Check plan brochures for exclusions. This avoids unexpected costs.
FEHB and the Postal Service Health Benefits Program
In 2025, Postal Service employees use the PSHB program. It mirrors FEHB but requires Medicare Part B for retirees after 2024. PSHB plans align with FEHB benefits, except for prescription drug coverage. Postal workers enroll via the PSHB system.
FEHB remains for non-postal federal employees. Compare PSHB and FEHB if you’re a covered family member. OPM provides resources for both programs. This ensures clarity for all federal workers.
Planning for Long-Term Coverage
FEHB supports long-term health planning. Review plans during open enrollment to adjust coverage. Consider life changes, like adding dependents. Use preventive care to avoid major expenses.
Pair HDHPs with HSAs for tax-free savings. Stay informed about 2025 changes, like premium hikes. OPM’s resources help you plan effectively. This keeps your coverage relevant.
Summary
Federal Employee Program Health Insurance, or FEHB, offers federal workers and retirees diverse plans. With over 180 options, it covers 8 million people with PPOs, HMOs, and HDHPs. Premiums average $897–$2,149 monthly in 2025, with a 13.5% increase. The government pays 63–75% of costs.
Benefits include preventive care, telehealth, and global coverage. Open enrollment is November 11 to December 9. Compare plans using OPM’s tools to find the best fit. FEHB ensures reliable, flexible coverage for federal families.
FAQ
What is Federal Employee Program Health Insurance?
It’s the FEHB program for federal employees and retirees. It offers PPOs, HMOs, and HDHPs with government-shared premiums. Over 8 million people are covered.
How much does FEHB cost in 2025?
Premiums average $897 for individuals and $1,956–$2,149 for families monthly. The government covers 63–75%. Copays are $20–$50; deductibles vary.
Who can enroll in FEHB?
Most federal employees, retirees, and their families qualify. You need five years of enrollment before retirement. Postal workers use PSHB in 2025.
When is FEHB open enrollment?
Open enrollment runs November 11 to December 9, 2025. Changes are allowed during qualifying life events. Use Employee Express or SF-2809 forms.
What are the benefits of FEHB?
FEHB covers hospital stays, prescriptions, and preventive care. It includes telehealth, mental health, and global coverage. Plans suit diverse needs.