Your health benefits are one of the most valuable parts of federal employment — and one of the most confusing to navigate. Federal employees choose from FEHB plans; postal employees now choose from PSHB plans following the January 2025 transition. Both programs share structure but differ in the specifics that matter.
What you'll find here
Open Season decisions have long-term consequences, especially as retirement approaches and Medicare coordination enters the picture. These are the topics worth understanding before every Open Season, not just your first one.
Deductibles, out-of-pocket max, network breadth, and prescription tiers — how to weigh them against your household's actual usage.
What changed on January 1, 2025, how PSHB differs from FEHB, and how to choose from the new plan options.
Whether to enroll in Part B alongside FEHB or PSHB at 65, and how the two programs work together in retirement.
When to switch plans, when to stay put, and how life events (marriage, birth, divorce) affect your enrollment window.
How to weigh single vs. family coverage, and when splitting into two plans within a household makes sense.
How HDHPs work inside FEHB and PSHB, and when they beat traditional plans on total cost.
Related topics
Book a free 30-minute benefits review with a licensed consultant. FERS, TSP, PSHB or FEHB, FEGLI — reviewed together, no cost, no obligation.
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