FEHB Plan Changes You Can’t Ignore for 2026

Are You Ready for the Big FEHB Plan Changes in 2026?

If you work for the federal government or the Postal Service, your health insurance could look very different in 2026. Every year, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) updates the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plans — and knowing what’s changed can save you money, frustration, and surprises at the doctor’s office. Let’s break down exactly what’s different and what it means for you.

Changes to FEHB Premiums and Costs

One of the biggest FEHB plan changes you’ll see for 2026 involves premium costs — the amount you and the government pay every paycheck for coverage.

• On average, FEHB premiums are rising again in 2026. Estimates show an approximate 12.3% average increase in the employee share of premiums.

• This follows steep increases in previous years, making health coverage a more significant part of your paycheck.

• The amount the federal government contributes toward your premium will also increase, but not as fast as your costs.

What this means for you: If you stay in your current plan without comparing other options, you might pay more out of pocket next year.

Plan Availability and Discontinuations

Another important FEHB plan change is plan lineup adjustments. Not all plans you see this year will be available in 2026.

• Several FEHB plans are being discontinued, which affects tens of thousands of employees.

• Most of these changes are from smaller, local plans rather than nationwide ones, but they still matter if you or your family use them.

If your plan is leaving the program, you’ll need to pick a new one during Open Season — otherwise, you’ll be automatically enrolled into a different plan (often not by choice).

Benefit and Coverage Changes

Not all FEHB plan changes are about cost or plan availability — some affect what services and benefits plans cover.

• Some plans updated deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums, which means your cost for care could shift.

• For example, certain copays like emergency room visits or ambulance services have new amounts you must pay under specific plans.

• Prescription drug coverage rules and cost-sharing percentages also changed in some plans.

Don’t guess about coverage. Always check your specific plan’s brochure or summary of benefits — they spell out how much you’ll pay for things like doctor visits, prescriptions, and specialist care.

Open Season Deadlines and Effective Dates

Timing matters.

• Open Season for FEHB is annually from mid-November through early December.

• Any changes you make during Open Season take effect at the beginning of the new plan year — typically January 1.

If you miss this window, you generally stay in your current plan and pay the new costs without changes to coverage.

How to Handle These FEHB Plan Changes

1. Review Your Current Plan

Go to the OPM FEHB plan comparison tool to see what your plan covers and what it costs.

2. Compare Other Plans

Look at premiums, deductibles, networks, and benefits for other plans. Even if your current plan is popular, another one might save you money or offer better care.

3. Act During Open Season

Choose a new plan or change your coverage before the open season deadline.

4. Check Dental and Vision Coverage

Don’t forget FEDVIP — dental and vision plans automatically continue, but you can change them during Open Season too.

If you’re unsure, talk to your HR team or use resources like Benefeds.gov to make changes.

What These Plan Changes Mean for Federal and Postal Employees

Here’s the bottom line:

• You will likely pay more for health insurance next year.

• Some plans are leaving the FEHB marketplace — you may have to shop for new coverage.

• Coverage details (like deductibles and copays) may look different — especially if you use certain services often.

• You must take action during Open Season if you want a different plan or coverage level.

Don’t let surprise costs and outdated assumptions drive your coverage decisions this year.

Internal Resources & Support

At The Benefit Coordinators, we help federal and postal employees understand their benefits in real terms — no fluff, no jargon.

👉 Want step-by-step help picking the best plan for your situation? Book a free benefits review with one of our specialists today.

Final Thoughts

Your health benefits are too important to ignore until next year’s premium hits your paycheck. By understanding the core FEHB plan changes for 2026 — costs, coverage updates, and plan availability — you can make choices that protect your health and your wallet.

Take a few minutes now. Compare plans. Ask questions. Make smart choices that fit your life.

You’re not just another enrollment number — you’re a federal or postal employee with real needs, and your benefits should work for you.