FEHBP Premiums Waived for Activated Reservists

Federal employees activated in support of combat operations overseas can have their Federal Employees Health Benefit Program premiums waived for up to two years. A law passed in late 2004 has required the waivers but not until Feb. 15 did the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issue a final rule implementing it. Meanwhile, all federal agencies have been paying the premiums anyway, but the OPM’s action made it official. Members of the Reserve Components who were mobilized between Sept. 2001 and Oct. 2004 and were provided only 18 months of coverage for FEHBP can be paid for the additional six months. Employees mobilized for reasons other than in support of contingency combat operations can continue FEHBP coverage for up to two years by paying their part of the premiums for the first year and the full premiums, plus 2 percent surcharge, the second year.