Open Season starts November 9, just 12 days from now. For five weeks, you can change your health, dental, vision and flexible spending choices without a qualifying life event.
Most feds stay in the same plan year after year. This is a year to actually look. Premiums are up, nine FEHB plans are ending, and there’s a new rule for anyone adding a family member to their coverage.
Here’s what’s new for 2027 and what to check before the December 14 deadline.
FEHB premiums: you’re paying more of the increase
The total cost of FEHB coverage is up 9.3% on average for 2027. But the government’s share is only up 8.6%, so enrollees pick up more of the difference.
Your share of the premium is up 10.9% on average.
If you’re retired, that comes straight out of your annuity check. And averages hide a wide range, so some plans are up much more. Look up your own plan’s 2027 rate before you decide to stay put.
Nine FEHB plans are ending
Nine FEHB plan options won’t be offered in 2027. If you’re in one of them and don’t pick a new plan, OPM picks for you: Compass Rose Standard, whether or not it fits your doctors, prescriptions or budget.
Not sure which plan you’re in? Find your enrollment code on your paystub or annuity statement, and confirm the plan is still offered next year.
Postal Service: PSHB changes
Postal Service Health Benefits enrollees will see their share of premiums rise 8.2% on average. One plan, UHC Choice Plus Primary Postal East, is ending. If you’re in it and don’t choose, you’ll be moved to FEP Blue Focus.
Four more things that are new for 2027
1. You’ll need to prove your family members are eligible. Under the FEHB Protection Act of 2025, adding a spouse or child requires proof of eligibility. Your employing office verifies it, and family members who aren’t eligible are removed. If you plan to add someone, gather the paperwork now.
2. FSAFEDS: re-enroll or it stops. Flexible spending accounts don’t carry over automatically. If you want an FSA in 2027, you have to sign up again during Open Season. New this year, there’s a Visa debit card option for health care FSAs. The IRS hadn’t set the 2027 contribution limit when this was written, so check FSAFEDS for the final number.
3. Dental and vision are up slightly. FEDVIP dental premiums are up 1.0% on average and vision premiums 1.6%. BENEFEDS also has a new cost tool covering 75 dental services, which is worth a look if you’re expecting major dental work.
4. New GLP-1 rules. FEHB plans must cover at least one GLP-1 and two oral anti-obesity drugs, and coverage requires a documented behavioral therapy program. If you take or are considering one of these medications, check your plan’s brochure for its requirements.
Key dates
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Nov 9, 2026 | Open Season opens |
| Dec 14, 2026 | Last day to make changes |
| Jan 1, 2027 | New coverage starts for retirees and PSHB enrollees |
| Jan 10, 2027 | New coverage starts for most employees |
The bottom line
Doing nothing is still a choice, and this year it could cost you. Check whether your plan is ending, compare your 2027 premium against other options, re-enroll in FSAFEDS if you use it, and have your paperwork ready if you’re adding a family member. Make your changes before December 14.
Want help seeing how rising premiums fit into your retirement income? Book a Fit Call with Haws Federal Advisors. We’ll look at your numbers and show you where your health costs fit into the bigger picture.
This article is for educational purposes only and isn’t tax or investment advice. Consult a qualified professional about your situation.