Key Takeaways

  • If you’re a USPS employee or retiree, the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program has officially replaced FEHB coverage in 2025. Understanding where to get accurate and up-to-date information is critical to managing your benefits.

  • Don’t rely on hearsay or unofficial groups. Always consult the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), KeepingPosted.org, or the PSHB Navigator Help Line for trusted answers to your questions.

Start with What You Know: The Basics of PSHB

As of January 1, 2025, all Postal Service employees and annuitants are required to receive health insurance coverage through the PSHB Program. This transition, mandated by the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022, means you are no longer covered under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program unless you qualify for a narrow set of exceptions.

Who Needs to Pay Attention to PSHB Now

You should be engaged with PSHB details if:

  • You are a USPS employee or annuitant.

  • You were previously enrolled in FEHB.

  • You are Medicare-eligible or will be turning 65 soon.

  • You have family members also receiving health coverage through your plan.

Major Enrollment Periods You Should Know

  • Special Enrollment Period (SEP): April 1 to September 30, 2024. This allowed Medicare Part B-eligible individuals to enroll without a penalty.

  • Open Season: November to December 2024. During this period, you selected your PSHB plan.

  • Future Open Seasons: Held annually, typically mid-November through mid-December. Mark your calendar.

The Official Channels That Matter Most

Avoid confusion by sticking to these trusted resources. These are your primary, official channels for PSHB information.

1. Office of Personnel Management (OPM)

OPM is the governing authority for the PSHB Program. Their website is the central hub for PSHB brochures, plan comparison tools, and policy updates.

  • Access all plan brochures and summaries of benefits.

  • Learn how Medicare coordinates with PSHB.

  • Review your eligibility and enrollment status.

2. KeepingPosted.org

Designed for annuitants, this site is where you:

  • Make changes to your health plan.

  • Update your contact information.

  • View your retirement and insurance documents.

This site also includes FAQs tailored specifically for retired postal employees.

3. PSHB Navigator Help Line

If you’re looking for personalized assistance, the PSHB Navigator Help Line (1-833-712-7742) is available to answer questions.

  • Operating hours are generally Monday through Friday, business hours.

  • You can get help with Medicare enrollment coordination.

  • Assistance is also available for navigating plan comparisons.

4. LiteBlue (for Current Employees)

If you’re still working for USPS, LiteBlue remains your main portal for:

  • Enrolling in a PSHB plan.

  • Updating your life insurance or Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) information.

  • Viewing HR communications regarding eligibility or required actions.

Avoid Common Misinformation Traps

In 2025, social media forums and message boards are buzzing with opinions and assumptions. But your health coverage is too important to be guided by speculation.

Why Unofficial Groups Can Be Misleading

  • Information may be outdated or incorrect.

  • Personal experiences vary by region and individual circumstances.

  • Plan options, costs, and coordination with Medicare differ by enrollee.

Stick to official resources. They are updated regularly and are governed by strict federal guidelines.

Medicare Coordination Still Matters

If you are turning 65 or already enrolled in Medicare, you must pay close attention to how your PSHB plan integrates with Medicare Part B.

Who Is Required to Enroll in Medicare Part B

For 2025 and beyond, if you are a Medicare-eligible Postal Service annuitant or family member, you are generally required to enroll in Medicare Part B to maintain full PSHB coverage, unless you qualify for one of the following exemptions:

  • You retired on or before January 1, 2025.

  • You were an active employee aged 64 or older as of January 1, 2025.

  • You reside outside the U.S.

  • You are enrolled in VA or Indian Health Service coverage.

Prescription Drug Coverage Under PSHB

As of 2025, prescription coverage for Medicare-eligible individuals is automatically integrated with a Medicare Part D Employer Group Waiver Plan (EGWP). This means:

  • You get enhanced drug benefits.

  • Your insulin costs are capped at $35/month.

  • There is a $2,000 annual out-of-pocket maximum for covered drugs.

What You Can (and Cannot) Change Now

Open Season for plan selection occurred in late 2024, but life happens. Here’s when you can still make changes:

Qualifying Life Events (QLEs)

Outside of Open Season, changes are only allowed under specific QLEs, such as:

  • Marriage or divorce

  • Birth or adoption of a child

  • Death of a covered family member

  • Loss of other health coverage

These changes must generally be reported within 60 days of the event.

Plan Costs and Contributions

While exact premiums vary, the government continues to pay approximately 70% of the total PSHB premium cost in 2025. Your share depends on:

  • Plan type (Self Only, Self Plus One, Self and Family)

  • Geographic region

  • Whether you are Medicare-eligible and enrolled in Part B

Make sure to compare plan brochures for deductible amounts, copayments, and coinsurance rates.

Planning for Future Changes

The PSHB Program is now the permanent system for USPS health coverage. Here’s how to stay ahead:

  • Check official sources quarterly to stay updated.

  • If nearing age 65, begin Medicare research at least 6 months prior.

  • Review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) each fall.

Don’t Overlook Other Benefits

PSHB does not replace or interfere with:

  • FEDVIP (vision and dental plans)

  • FEGLI (life insurance)

  • FLTCIP (long-term care)

  • FSAFEDS (flexible spending accounts)

You can continue to manage these benefits separately. Keep in mind that enrollment periods and rules may differ.

Staying Proactive Makes All the Difference

Waiting until the last minute or relying on third-party advice could put your health coverage at risk. Understanding how and when to use official resources is your best tool for protecting your benefits.

Take Control of Your PSHB Experience

Managing your health coverage in 2025 doesn’t have to be confusing. As a USPS employee or retiree, you have clear paths to official support and accurate information.

Don’t risk your coverage by guessing. Reach out to a licensed agent listed on this website for guidance tailored to your situation.