Health coverage, for life.

Federal health insurance, beyond age 65

FEHB is the best employer health insurance in America. Most federal retirees keep it for life. But the picture gets complicated at 65 when Medicare enters the equation, and again at 73 when RMDs may push you into IRMAA territory.

The biggest mistake federal employees make? Dropping FEHB for a spouse's plan in the five years before retirement. You must be continuously enrolled for the five years immediately before retirement to keep FEHB. Miss the five-year window and you lose government-subsidized health insurance for life — worth roughly $20,000 per year in premium support.

What this pillar covers

The five-year FEHB rule. The Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program that replaced FEHB for postal workers in 2025. Medicare Part A, B, C, D — what each one covers, what to enroll in, when. The FEHB and Medicare coordination math (is Part B worth $185+/month when you already have FEHB?). TRICARE For Life for military retirees. The IRMAA premium surcharge that hits at income thresholds.

The most-asked questions, answered

• Do I have to enroll in Medicare at 65? Part A: usually yes (it's free for those who paid in). Part B: depends on whether you keep FEHB.
• Can I keep FEHB in retirement? Yes, if continuously enrolled for the 5 years immediately before retirement.
• What's PSHB? The new postal-worker health program that replaced FEHB for USPS employees and retirees in January 2025.
• What about TRICARE for military retirees? Free at age 65 with Medicare Part B enrollment.
• What is IRMAA? A Medicare premium surcharge for higher-income retirees. Income thresholds are cliffs, not slopes.