Federal retirement and Medicare: review the whole arrangement

Start with your employment status

Tell the benefits office whether you are actively employed, retired, or returning to federal employment. Ask which coverage pays first for you and each covered family member. The answer for a spouse can differ from your own.

Compare costs using the current brochure

Some FEHB plans reimburse part of the Part B premium or waive certain cost sharing when Medicare pays first. Those features are plan specific. Ask for the actual benefit terms and compare the premiums and likely expenses together.

Check Part B timing separately

Having retiree coverage is not the same as having coverage through current employment. Delaying Part B can bring penalties and limited enrollment opportunities. Ask Social Security and the benefits office to confirm your timing before you make a decision.

Distinguish suspension from cancellation

These actions have different consequences for returning to FEHB. OPM describes circumstances where suspension is available, including qualifying Medicare Advantage enrollment. Do not submit a cancellation when you intend a temporary suspension. Get the applicable procedure and future enrollment rights in writing.

Include the family and prescription benefits

Ask how a change affects everyone on your enrollment. Tell your FEHB plan when Medicare begins. Review any drug coverage notices with the plan. Postal Service Health Benefits has distinct requirements, so postal retirees should use OPM’s PSHB guidance rather than assume every FEHB rule is identical.

Go straight to the source

• OPM guidance for annuitants
• OPM Medicare and FEHB overview
• Postal retiree guidance

Sources checked September 28, 2026. General education, not a coverage determination or medical advice. Plan terms, eligibility, and state rules can vary. How we approach education