June 29, 2015 – Postal and federal employees and annuitants in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB) are currently forced to choose between just two coverage: to cover only themselves or to select a one-size-fits-all family plan.

But that’s about to change.

Postal employees and annuitants will have a new choice for 2016: Self Plus One.

This Open Season, the APWU Health Plan encourages union members to consider all of the choices. As part of your search this November:

• Shop around for the right FEHB Plan.
• Use the Plan Comparison Tools on opm.gov. Is Self Plus One the right choice for you in 2016?
• Use Plan SmartChoice for additional comparisons.
• Just you and your child? Or just you and your spouse? Consider Self Plus One.
• Currently enrolled in two Self Only plans? Consider Self Plus One.
• Because Self Plus One is new this year, if you’re interested, you will have to enroll.
• Visit www.opm.gov/selfplusone and www.apwuhp.com for additional updates. (Click on Open Season.)

Federal Benefits Fast Facts
Below are responses to frequently asked questions.

Who will Self Plus One enrollment cover?

Self Plus One enrollment will cover the enrollee and one eligible family member designated by the enrollee.

When can I enroll or change my FEHB enrollment to Self Plus One?

You can enroll in FEHB or change your FEHB enrollment during the 2015 Open Season, or when you experience an FEHB-specific Qualifying Life Event (QLE), beginning in 2016.

When is 2015 Open Season?

The 2015 Open Season will run from Nov. 9 to Dec. 14, and will include the Self Plus One enrollment type.

What is the effective date of a 2015 Open Season Self Plus One enrollment or enrollment change?

Generally, coverage begins on the first day of the first full pay period in 2016.

How much will I pay?

The APWU Health Plan generally announces premiums as soon as they are released by OPM. They will be posted at apwuhp.com (click on Open Season) or www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/healthcare/ plan-information/premiums.

Can I pay my Self Plus One premiums pre-tax?

Paying premiums pre-tax (known as premium conversion) allows postal and federal employees to use pre-tax dollars to pay their FEHB premiums. All employees who enroll in the FEHB Program automatically receive premium conversion tax benefits, unless they waive participation. Federal retirees are not eligible to pay premiums with pre-tax dollars.

Which family members are eligible for coverage under a Self Plus One enrollment?

Your spouse (including a valid common law marriage); Your child under age 26 including; Recognized natural child; Legally adopted child; Stepchild (including child of same-sex domestic partners in certain states). A child age 26 or over who is incapable of self-support because of a mental or physical disability that existed before age 26. A foster child who meets certain requirements with your signed certification.

For complete details on eligibility, visit www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/healthcare/reference-materials/reference/family-members.

Where can I go for more details or additional information?

• The Guide to Federal Benefits;
• FEHB plan brochures and website;
• Visit www.apwuhp.com;
• Visit www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/special-initiatives/self-plus-one/;
• Upcoming American Postal Worker articles.

– See more at: APWU

Updated July 15, 2015