Open Enrollment Changes Military Members Need to Be Aware of

Don’t miss out on the potential benefits of open enrollment! Most performance changes occur during a PCS or state change (switching between active and reserve components). However, there are some new benefits to consider.

What is Open Season?

During the federal benefits open enrollment season, you can start, stop, or change enrollment for various federal benefits. Normally it begins on the second Monday in November and ends on the second Monday in December, but the official dates are determined published on the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) website..

But why?

Generally, open enrollment periods are such that people cannot purchase coverage until they have to file a claim and must stop paying for coverage immediately afterward. Federal benefits like vision and dental insurance are administered by private insurance carriers, so this makes sense.

When you look at these federal benefits, most are tailored to non-military federal employees. However, there are some special programs for military families are entitled. You can register during the open season or at another “qualifying” event. These programs include the Uniformed Services Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DCFSA), the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), and the US Family Health Plan (USFHP).

Uniformed Services Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DCFSA)

The DCFSA has only been available to military members since 2024 (enrollment in 2023). In short, it is a special account where you can deposit money from your salary to help pay qualifying Care costs for those in need of care. The money you contribute to the DCFSA is deducted from your income, saving you tax dollars.

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Depending on your income level, you can save up to 30% in taxes, up to a limit of $5,000 per household. Check those FSAFEDS website for more information.

Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP)

Only for most military families Eye insurance is offered via FEDVIP. Active military members are not eligible, but their dependents, retirees, reservists and Guardsmen may be eligible for coverage. Be sure to check your eligibility on the BENEFEDS website.

It’s important to weigh your costs and check what’s covered. Depending on where you are stationed, you may have many options available to you.

US Family Health Plan

The US Family Health Plan (USFHP) is private insurance underwritten by TRICARE. Essentially, your family could receive TRICARE-like coverage through a private insurer. Many families in the National Capitol Region may know this as the “Johns Hopkins Plan.” However, various companies cover many other regions under the program.

You may have received a USFHP letter during your orientation. If you’re anything like the rest of us, You may remember some of the briefings we are bombarded with as we arrive at a new installation. Regardless, if you want to switch from “regular” TRICARE Prime to one of the USFHP options, you should do this Be ready before the open season begins.

You may also have the option to opt-in or opt-out when attending a qualifying event, such as: B. if you complete PCS.

How to prepare for the open season

The most important thing you need to do to prepare for the Open Season is to do your research and get organized. Find out about these benefits now and gather documentation so you can begin the process. Most programs only take a few minutes to request, but some may be more involved. Look for uniformity The Ministry of Defense recently announced further benefits.

Your family’s personal situation is unique. Therefore, contact these services immediately before November to confirm eligibility, consider options, and ask questions.