Open Season — the time of year to enroll in benefits programs and change or cancel enrollments — begins Nov. 11.

On that day, employees can begin exercising their options for three benefit programs — Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). Open Season for Annual Leave Exchange (ALE) begins Friday, Nov. 15.

The closing dates are:

•  Federal Employees Health Benefits: Dec. 10 at 5 p.m., Central Standard Time (CST).

• Flexible Spending Accounts: Dec. 22 at 5 p.m., CST.
• Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance: Dec. 9 at 11:59 p.m., Eastern Standard Time.
• Annual Leave Exchange: Dec. 15 at 11:59 p.m., CST.

FSAs expire at the end of each year. Employees who wish to continue this benefit must renew their participation during Open Season. ALE for 2014 also requires an election during Open Season.

FEHB and FEDVIP coverage continues from year to year unless an employee changes or cancels coverage.

Eligible employees will receive FEHB, FSA, FEDVIP and ALE open season materials in the mail. The “My HR” section on LiteBlue and the Open season website also has details on these benefits.

Employees can make FEHB, FSA and ALE selections on PostalEASE. For FEDVIP elections, go to www.benefeds.com or call 877-888-FEDS (877-888-3337). The TTY number is 877-889-5680.

Employees will need their employee identification numbers and USPS personal identification numbers to enter PostalEASE or LiteBlue.

New or changed enrollments made during the 2013 FEHB open season will become effective Jan. 11, 2014. New enrollments made during the 2013 FEDVIP and FSA Open Season will become effective Jan. 1, 2014. ALE lump sums will be included in the Jan. 31, 2014, paycheck