**Where Can I Send OPM Form 2809 Online for FEHB Enrollment?**

Are you looking for the easiest way to enroll in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program or make changes to your current health plan? Knowing Where To Send Opm Form 2809 Online is crucial, and gmonline.net is here to guide you through the process and provide all the information you need for a seamless experience. Let’s explore the options and find the best fit for your needs, focusing on digital accessibility, health insurance options, and online resources.

1. Understanding OPM Form 2809 and FEHB Enrollment

What is OPM Form 2809, and why is it essential for Federal Employees Health Benefits enrollment?

OPM Form 2809, also known as the “Health Benefits Election Form,” is the official document used by federal employees and retirees to enroll in, change, or cancel their participation in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program. This program offers a wide range of health insurance options, providing comprehensive coverage to federal employees, retirees, and their families. Completing and submitting this form correctly is vital to ensure you receive the health benefits you are entitled to.

1.1. What is the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program?

The Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program is a health insurance program that provides coverage to millions of federal employees, retirees, and their families. It offers a wide variety of plans from different insurance carriers, allowing individuals to choose the plan that best fits their needs and budget.

According to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the FEHB program is one of the largest employer-sponsored health benefits programs in the world. It offers a range of health plans, including fee-for-service plans, health maintenance organizations (HMOs), and consumer-driven health plans (CDHPs). Each plan offers different levels of coverage, premiums, and cost-sharing arrangements, giving enrollees the flexibility to select a plan that meets their specific needs.

1.2. Why is OPM Form 2809 Important?

OPM Form 2809 is the key to accessing and managing your FEHB benefits. It serves as the official record of your enrollment choices, ensuring that you receive the correct coverage and that your premiums are accurately deducted. Whether you are a new employee enrolling for the first time, an existing employee making changes during the Open Season, or a retiree managing your benefits, this form is essential.

Without a correctly completed and submitted OPM Form 2809, you may not be able to enroll in the FEHB program, change your plan, or update your coverage options. This can result in a lack of health insurance coverage or incorrect premium deductions.

1.3. Key Sections of OPM Form 2809

OPM Form 2809 includes several key sections that you need to complete accurately:

Personal Information: This section requires your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and other identifying information.
Enrollment Code: This section asks for the code of the health plan you wish to enroll in. The enrollment code is a unique identifier for each plan and coverage option.
Type of Enrollment: This section requires you to indicate whether you are enrolling for self-only, self plus one, or self and family coverage.
Reason for Enrollment: This section asks you to specify the reason for your enrollment, such as new enrollment, change during Open Season, or qualifying life event.
Signature and Date: This section requires your signature and the date to certify that the information you provided is accurate.

Completing each section accurately is essential to avoid delays or errors in processing your enrollment. Double-check all information before submitting the form to ensure its accuracy.

2. Can I Submit OPM Form 2809 Online?

Is there a way to submit OPM Form 2809 online, and what are the benefits?

Yes, there are online options for submitting OPM Form 2809, but the availability depends on your employment status (employee vs. annuitant) and specific circumstances. Submitting online offers numerous benefits, including convenience, faster processing times, and reduced paperwork.

For federal employees, the primary method for submitting OPM Form 2809 is through their agency’s human resources (HR) system. Most federal agencies have transitioned to electronic HR systems that allow employees to complete and submit the form online.

For annuitants (retirees), the online options are more limited. During the Federal Benefits Open Season, annuitants can use OPM’s Open Season Online system to make changes to their FEHB enrollment. However, outside of the Open Season, online submission may not be available, and annuitants may need to submit the form via mail or fax.

2.1. Online Submission for Federal Employees

If you are a current federal employee, the most convenient way to submit OPM Form 2809 is through your agency’s HR system. Most federal agencies have implemented electronic HR platforms that allow employees to manage their benefits online.

To submit the form online, follow these steps:

Log in to your agency’s HR system using your employee credentials.
Navigate to the benefits section or search for “OPM Form 2809.”
Complete the online form, providing all the required information.
Review your entries carefully to ensure accuracy.
Submit the form electronically through the HR system.

Submitting online ensures that your form is received and processed promptly. You will also receive a confirmation email or notification once your submission has been accepted.

2.2. Online Submission for Annuitants (Retirees)

For annuitants, the online options for submitting OPM Form 2809 are more limited. During the Federal Benefits Open Season, annuitants can use OPM’s Open Season Online system to make changes to their FEHB enrollment.

To access the Open Season Online system, visit the OPM website and navigate to the FEHB section. You will need to create an account or log in with your existing credentials. Once logged in, you can complete and submit OPM Form 2809 electronically.

Outside of the Open Season, annuitants may not have the option to submit the form online. In such cases, they may need to submit the form via mail or fax. Check with OPM or your retirement system for specific instructions.

2.3. Benefits of Online Submission

Submitting OPM Form 2809 online offers several advantages over traditional paper submission:

Convenience: You can complete and submit the form from anywhere with an internet connection, at any time that is convenient for you.
Faster Processing: Online submissions are typically processed more quickly than paper forms, reducing delays in your enrollment or changes.
Reduced Paperwork: Online submission eliminates the need for printing, mailing, and storing paper forms, contributing to a more environmentally friendly process.
Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email or notification once your online submission has been accepted, providing peace of mind that your form has been received.
Accuracy: Online forms often include built-in validation checks that help ensure you provide accurate information, reducing the risk of errors.

By leveraging the available online options, you can streamline the process of submitting OPM Form 2809 and enjoy a more efficient and convenient experience.

3. Where to Send OPM Form 2809 via Mail

If online submission isn’t an option, where should you mail your OPM Form 2809?

For those who cannot submit OPM Form 2809 online, mailing the form is a viable alternative. The mailing address depends on whether you are an employee, annuitant, or compensationer:

Employees: Submit the form to your agency’s HR department.
Annuitants (FEHB): Mail the form to the Open Season Processing Center.
Annuitants (PSHB): Mail the form to the Postal Service Health Benefits Program Open Season Processing Center.
Compensationers: Mail the form to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs.

3.1. Mailing Address for Employees

If you are a current federal employee, you should submit your OPM Form 2809 to your agency’s human resources (HR) department. The specific mailing address may vary depending on your agency, so it’s essential to confirm the correct address with your HR department.

To find the mailing address for your agency’s HR department, you can:

Check your agency’s website or intranet.
Contact your HR representative directly.
Consult your employee handbook or benefits guide.

Make sure to include your name, employee identification number, and contact information on the form to ensure proper processing.

3.2. Mailing Address for Annuitants (FEHB)

If you are an annuitant (retiree) and participating in the FEHB program, you should mail your OPM Form 2809 to the Open Season Processing Center. The mailing address is:

Office of Personnel Management

Open Season Processing Center

P.O. Box 5000

Lawrence, KS 66046-0500

When mailing the form, make sure to include your annuity claim number and Social Security number on your request. If you are choosing Self Plus One or Self and Family coverage, you will also need your eligible family member’s information and other insurance information as specified in the instructions mailed to you at the beginning of Open Season.

3.3. Mailing Address for Annuitants (PSHB)

If you are an annuitant (retiree) and participating in the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program, you should mail your OPM Form 2809 to the Postal Service Health Benefits Program Open Season Processing Center. The mailing address is:

Office of Personnel Management

Postal Service Health Benefits Program Open Season Processing Center

P.O. Box 5001

Lawrence, KS 66046-0500

When mailing the form, make sure to clearly state your Open Season request. If you are making an enrollment change, be sure to tell them the plan you want, the type of coverage (Self Only, Self Plus One or Self and Family), and the enrollment code. Remember to include your annuity claim number and Social Security number on your request.

3.4. Mailing Address for Compensationers

If you are a compensationer, you should mail your written request for an Open Season enrollment change to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs. The mailing address is:

FECA Central Mailroom

P.O. Box 8311

London, KY 40742

Be sure to include your compensation claim number on all requests.

3.5. Tips for Mailing OPM Form 2809

When mailing your OPM Form 2809, keep these tips in mind:

Use a sturdy envelope to protect the form from damage during transit.
Include all required information, such as your name, address, Social Security number, and annuity claim number (if applicable).
Clearly indicate the reason for your submission, such as new enrollment, change during Open Season, or qualifying life event.
Make a copy of the completed form for your records.
Consider sending the form via certified mail with return receipt requested to confirm that it was received.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your OPM Form 2809 is received and processed correctly.

4. What is Open Season and How Does it Affect Form Submission?

What is the Federal Benefits Open Season, and how does it influence the submission of OPM Form 2809?

The Federal Benefits Open Season is an annual period when federal employees and annuitants can enroll in, change, or cancel their FEHB or PSHB coverage. During this time, OPM provides specific instructions and deadlines for submitting OPM Form 2809.

According to OPM, the Open Season typically runs from mid-November to mid-December each year. During this period, eligible individuals can review their current health plan options, compare different plans, and make changes to their coverage.

4.1. Key Dates for Open Season

The specific dates for the Federal Benefits Open Season may vary slightly from year to year, but it generally occurs during the following time frame:

Mid-November: Open Season begins.
Mid-December: Open Season ends.

OPM announces the official dates for each Open Season well in advance, providing ample time for individuals to review their options and make informed decisions.

4.2. How Open Season Affects Form Submission

During the Open Season, OPM provides specific instructions and deadlines for submitting OPM Form 2809. These instructions may include:

Online Submission: Annuitants can use OPM’s Open Season Online system to make changes to their FEHB enrollment.
Mailing Address: OPM provides the mailing address for submitting paper forms.
Deadlines: OPM sets a deadline for submitting forms, which must be strictly adhered to.
Required Information: OPM specifies the information that must be included on the form, such as annuity claim number and Social Security number.

It’s essential to carefully review OPM’s instructions and deadlines during the Open Season to ensure that your OPM Form 2809 is submitted correctly and on time.

4.3. Changes You Can Make During Open Season

During the Federal Benefits Open Season, you can make a variety of changes to your FEHB or PSHB coverage, including:

Enroll in a New Plan: You can enroll in a new health plan if you are not currently enrolled in FEHB or PSHB.
Change Plans: You can switch from your current health plan to a different plan.
Change Enrollment Type: You can change your enrollment type from self-only to self plus one or self and family, or vice versa.
Cancel Enrollment: You can cancel your FEHB or PSHB enrollment altogether.
Waive or Begin Participation in Premium Conversion: You can waive or begin participation in premium conversion, which allows you to pay your FEHB premiums with pre-tax dollars.

Take advantage of the Open Season to review your health plan options and make changes that align with your current needs and circumstances.

4.4. Resources for Open Season

OPM provides a variety of resources to help you make informed decisions during the Federal Benefits Open Season, including:

OPM Website: The OPM website contains comprehensive information about the FEHB and PSHB programs, including plan brochures, enrollment guides, and FAQs.
Plan Brochures: Each health plan offers a detailed brochure that describes the plan’s coverage, costs, and other important information.
Open Season Online System: Annuitants can use OPM’s Open Season Online system to make changes to their FEHB enrollment.
Customer Service: OPM and the health plans offer customer service support to answer your questions and provide assistance.

Utilize these resources to research your options and make the best choices for your health insurance needs.

5. What Happens After I Submit OPM Form 2809?

After submitting OPM Form 2809, what steps should you expect in the enrollment process?

Once you have submitted OPM Form 2809, either online or via mail, there are several steps in the enrollment process:

Processing: OPM or your agency’s HR department will process your form.
Confirmation: You will receive confirmation of your enrollment or changes.
Effective Date: Your new coverage will take effect on a specific date.
Premium Deductions: Your premium deductions will be adjusted accordingly.

5.1. Form Processing

After you submit OPM Form 2809, it will be processed by either OPM or your agency’s HR department, depending on your employment status.

If you are a current federal employee and submitted the form through your agency’s HR system, your HR department will review the form for completeness and accuracy. They may contact you if any information is missing or unclear.

If you are an annuitant and submitted the form to the Open Season Processing Center, OPM will process the form. They will verify your eligibility and ensure that all required information is included.

The processing time may vary depending on the volume of submissions and the complexity of your enrollment. However, OPM and federal agencies strive to process forms as quickly and efficiently as possible.

5.2. Enrollment Confirmation

Once your OPM Form 2809 has been processed, you will receive confirmation of your enrollment or changes. The confirmation may be sent via email, mail, or through your agency’s HR system.

The confirmation will include important information, such as:

Your health plan name and enrollment code
Your enrollment type (self-only, self plus one, or self and family)
The effective date of your coverage
Your premium amount

Review the confirmation carefully to ensure that all information is accurate. If you notice any errors or discrepancies, contact OPM or your agency’s HR department immediately to have them corrected.

5.3. Effective Date of Coverage

Your new FEHB or PSHB coverage will take effect on a specific date, which is typically the first day of the following year. For example, if you enroll or make changes during the Federal Benefits Open Season in November or December 2024, your new coverage will take effect on January 26, 2025.

The effective date is important because it determines when you can begin using your new health plan and when your premium deductions will be adjusted.

5.4. Premium Deductions

Once your new coverage takes effect, your premium deductions will be adjusted accordingly. The premium amount will depend on the health plan you selected, your enrollment type, and your pay schedule.

Your premium deductions will be reflected in your paychecks or annuity payments. Review your pay stubs or annuity statements carefully to ensure that the correct premium amount is being deducted.

If you have any questions or concerns about your premium deductions, contact your agency’s HR department or OPM for assistance.

6. What if I Need to Make Changes Outside of Open Season?

Can I make changes to my FEHB enrollment outside of the Federal Benefits Open Season?

Yes, you can make changes to your FEHB enrollment outside of the Federal Benefits Open Season if you experience a qualifying life event (QLE). A QLE is a change in your life circumstances that allows you to enroll in, change, or cancel your FEHB coverage.

6.1. Qualifying Life Events (QLEs)

According to OPM, common QLEs include:

Marriage: You get married.
Divorce: You get divorced.
Birth or Adoption of a Child: You have a baby or adopt a child.
Death of a Family Member: A family member dies.
Loss of Coverage: You or a family member loses other health insurance coverage.
Change in Employment Status: You or a family member experiences a change in employment status that affects health insurance coverage.
Moving Out of Service Area: You move out of the service area of your current health plan.

If you experience a QLE, you have 60 days from the date of the event to enroll in, change, or cancel your FEHB coverage.

6.2. How to Make Changes Due to a QLE

To make changes to your FEHB enrollment due to a QLE, you must:

Complete OPM Form 2809.
Provide documentation to support the QLE, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, birth certificate, or death certificate.
Submit the form and documentation to your agency’s HR department (if you are a current employee) or to OPM (if you are an annuitant).

Make sure to submit your form and documentation within 60 days of the QLE to avoid delays or denial of your request.

6.3. Special Enrollment Opportunities

In addition to QLEs, OPM may announce special enrollment opportunities in certain circumstances. For example, OPM may offer a special enrollment period if there are significant changes to the FEHB program or if a particular health plan experiences financial difficulties.

If OPM announces a special enrollment opportunity, you will have a limited time to enroll in, change, or cancel your FEHB coverage. OPM will provide specific instructions and deadlines for participating in the special enrollment period.

Stay informed about any special enrollment opportunities by checking the OPM website or contacting your agency’s HR department.

6.4. Importance of Timely Action

Whether you are making changes due to a QLE or a special enrollment opportunity, it’s essential to take timely action. If you miss the deadline, you may have to wait until the next Federal Benefits Open Season to make changes to your FEHB coverage.

Promptly submit your OPM Form 2809 and supporting documentation to ensure that your request is processed without delay.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting OPM Form 2809

What are some common errors to avoid when filling out and submitting OPM Form 2809?

Completing OPM Form 2809 accurately is crucial to ensure your FEHB enrollment or changes are processed smoothly. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Incomplete Information: Failing to complete all required sections of the form.
Incorrect Enrollment Code: Entering the wrong enrollment code for your desired health plan.
Missing Signatures: Forgetting to sign and date the form.
Lack of Documentation: Not providing required documentation for QLEs.
Submitting to the Wrong Address: Mailing the form to an incorrect address.

7.1. Incomplete Information

One of the most common mistakes when completing OPM Form 2809 is failing to provide all the required information. Make sure to complete every section of the form, including:

Your personal information (name, address, date of birth, Social Security number)
Your enrollment code
Your enrollment type (self-only, self plus one, or self and family)
Your reason for enrollment
Your signature and date

Leaving out any required information can delay the processing of your form or even result in its rejection.

7.2. Incorrect Enrollment Code

Another common mistake is entering the wrong enrollment code for your desired health plan. Each health plan and coverage option has a unique enrollment code, and it’s essential to enter the correct code to ensure you are enrolled in the plan you want.

Double-check the enrollment code against the plan brochure or the OPM website to make sure you have the correct code. If you are unsure, contact your agency’s HR department or OPM for assistance.

7.3. Missing Signatures

Forgetting to sign and date OPM Form 2809 is another common mistake that can cause delays or rejection. The signature and date certify that the information you provided is accurate and complete.

Make sure to sign and date the form in the designated spaces before submitting it.

7.4. Lack of Documentation

If you are making changes to your FEHB enrollment due to a qualifying life event (QLE), you must provide documentation to support the QLE. For example, if you are getting married, you must provide a copy of your marriage certificate. If you are having a baby, you must provide a copy of the birth certificate.

Failing to provide the required documentation can result in the denial of your request.

7.5. Submitting to the Wrong Address

Mailing OPM Form 2809 to the wrong address is another mistake that can cause delays or loss of your form. Make sure to submit the form to the correct address based on your employment status:

Employees: Submit the form to your agency’s HR department.
Annuitants (FEHB): Mail the form to the Open Season Processing Center.
Annuitants (PSHB): Mail the form to the Postal Service Health Benefits Program Open Season Processing Center.
Compensationers: Mail the form to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs.

Check the OPM website or contact your agency’s HR department or OPM for the correct mailing address.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your OPM Form 2809 is processed accurately and efficiently.

8. How Can gmonline.net Help with FEHB Enrollment?

How does gmonline.net support individuals navigating the FEHB enrollment process and understanding health insurance options?

gmonline.net offers valuable resources and information to help you navigate the FEHB enrollment process:

Comprehensive Guides: Detailed articles and guides on FEHB enrollment, plan options, and form submission.
Latest Updates: Up-to-date news and information about Open Season, QLEs, and program changes.
Community Forum: A platform for connecting with other federal employees and annuitants to share experiences and ask questions.
Expert Advice: Access to experts who can provide personalized guidance and support.

8.1. Comprehensive Guides

gmonline.net provides comprehensive guides on various aspects of the FEHB program, including:

FEHB Enrollment Process: Step-by-step instructions on how to enroll in the FEHB program.
FEHB Plan Options: Detailed information about the different types of health plans available through FEHB, such as HMOs, PPOs, and fee-for-service plans.
OPM Form 2809 Instructions: Guidance on how to complete OPM Form 2809 accurately and efficiently.
Qualifying Life Events: Information about qualifying life events and how they affect your FEHB coverage.
Open Season Information: Updates and resources for the Federal Benefits Open Season.

These guides are designed to provide you with the knowledge and resources you need to make informed decisions about your health insurance coverage.

8.2. Latest Updates

gmonline.net keeps you informed about the latest news and updates related to the FEHB program, including:

Open Season Announcements: Official announcements about the dates and details of the Federal Benefits Open Season.
QLE Updates: Information about changes to qualifying life events and their impact on FEHB coverage.
Program Changes: Updates on any changes to the FEHB program, such as new plan options or changes to existing plans.
Legislation and Regulations: News about any legislation or regulations that may affect the FEHB program.

Staying up-to-date on these developments can help you make timely and informed decisions about your health insurance coverage.

8.3. Community Forum

gmonline.net hosts a community forum where federal employees and annuitants can connect with each other, share experiences, and ask questions about the FEHB program.

The community forum is a valuable resource for:

Getting Advice: Seek advice from other members who have experience with the FEHB program.
Sharing Information: Share your knowledge and insights with other members.
Networking: Connect with other federal employees and annuitants who have similar interests.
Staying Informed: Stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments related to the FEHB program.

Join the gmonline.net community forum to connect with others and enhance your understanding of the FEHB program.

8.4. Expert Advice

gmonline.net provides access to experts who can offer personalized guidance and support on FEHB-related matters. These experts can help you:

Understand Your Options: Explain the different FEHB plan options and help you choose the plan that best fits your needs.
Navigate the Enrollment Process: Guide you through the FEHB enrollment process and answer any questions you may have.
Resolve Issues: Help you resolve any issues or problems you may encounter with your FEHB coverage.
Make Informed Decisions: Provide you with the information and resources you need to make informed decisions about your health insurance coverage.

Contact gmonline.net to connect with an expert and get personalized assistance with your FEHB needs.

9. Staying Informed: Key Resources for FEHB Participants

What are the essential resources FEHB participants should utilize to stay informed about their benefits and options?

To stay informed about your FEHB benefits and options, utilize these key resources:

OPM Website: The official source for FEHB information, forms, and updates.
Plan Brochures: Detailed guides to each plan’s coverage, costs, and rules.
Agency HR Department: Your primary contact for enrollment and eligibility questions.
gmonline.net: A comprehensive resource for news, guides, and community support.

9.1. OPM Website

The OPM website is the official source for information about the FEHB program. It contains:

FEHB Program Overview: A comprehensive overview of the FEHB program, including eligibility requirements, plan options, and enrollment procedures.
OPM Forms: Access to OPM Form 2809 and other relevant forms.
Plan Brochures: Links to plan brochures for all FEHB plans.
Open Season Information: Updates and resources for the Federal Benefits Open Season.
FAQs: Answers to frequently asked questions about the FEHB program.

Visit the OPM website regularly to stay informed about your FEHB benefits and options.

9.2. Plan Brochures

Each FEHB plan offers a detailed brochure that describes the plan’s coverage, costs, and rules. The plan brochure is an essential resource for:

Understanding Coverage: Learn about the services and treatments covered by the plan.
Reviewing Costs: Understand the premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance associated with the plan.
Knowing the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the plan’s rules and procedures, such as referral requirements and pre-authorization requirements.
Comparing Plans: Compare the coverage and costs of different plans to find the one that best fits your needs.

Obtain and review the plan brochure for your current health plan and any other plans you are considering.

9.3. Agency HR Department

Your agency’s HR department is your primary contact for questions about your FEHB enrollment and eligibility. HR representatives can help you:

Enroll in FEHB: Assist you with the FEHB enrollment process.
Make Changes: Help you make changes to your FEHB coverage due to a qualifying life event.
Answer Questions: Answer your questions about your FEHB benefits and options.
Resolve Issues: Help you resolve any issues or problems you may encounter with your FEHB coverage.

Contact your agency’s HR department for assistance with any FEHB-related matters.

9.4. gmonline.net

gmonline.net is a comprehensive online resource for news, guides, and community support related to the FEHB program. It offers:

Comprehensive Guides: Detailed articles and guides on FEHB enrollment, plan options, and form submission.
Latest Updates: Up-to-date news and information about Open Season, QLEs, and program changes.
Community Forum: A platform for connecting with other federal employees and annuitants to share experiences and ask questions.
Expert Advice: Access to experts who can provide personalized guidance and support.

Visit gmonline.net regularly to stay informed about the FEHB program and connect with other FEHB participants.

10. OPM Form 2809 FAQs: Answers to Your Questions

What are some frequently asked questions about OPM Form 2809 and FEHB enrollment?

Here are some frequently asked questions about OPM Form 2809 and FEHB enrollment:

What is the purpose of OPM Form 2809?
Where can I find OPM Form 2809?
How do I complete OPM Form 2809?
Where do I submit OPM Form 2809?
When can I enroll in FEHB?
What is a qualifying life event (QLE)?
How do I make changes to my FEHB coverage?
What is the Federal Benefits Open Season?
How do I choose a health plan?
Where can I get help with FEHB enrollment?

10.1. What is the Purpose of OPM Form 2809?

10.2. Where Can I Find OPM Form 2809?

You can find OPM Form 2809 on the OPM website or through your agency’s HR department.

10.3. How Do I Complete OPM Form 2809?

To complete OPM Form 2809, follow these steps:

Download the form from the OPM website or obtain it from your agency’s HR department.
Read the instructions carefully.
Complete all required sections of the form, including your personal information, enrollment code, enrollment type, and reason for enrollment.
Sign and date the form.
Submit the form to the appropriate address or online portal.

10.4. Where Do I Submit OPM Form 2809?

The submission location for OPM Form 2809 depends on your employment status:

Employees: Submit the form to your agency’s HR department.
Annuitants (FEHB): Mail the form to the Open Season Processing Center.
Annuitants (PSHB): Mail the form to the Postal Service Health Benefits Program Open Season Processing Center.
Compensationers: Mail the form to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs.

10.5. When Can I Enroll in FEHB?

You can enroll in FEHB:

When you become a new federal employee.
During the Federal Benefits Open Season.
When you experience a qualifying life event (QLE).
During a special enrollment opportunity.

10.6. What is a Qualifying Life Event (QLE)?

A qualifying life event (QLE) is a change in your life circumstances that allows you to enroll in, change, or cancel your FEHB coverage. Common QLEs include marriage, divorce, birth or adoption of a child, death of a family member, and loss of coverage.

10.7. How Do I Make Changes to My FEHB Coverage?

You can make changes to your FEHB coverage:

During the Federal Benefits Open Season.
When you experience a qualifying life event (QLE).
During a special enrollment opportunity.

To make changes, complete OPM Form 2809 and submit it to the appropriate address or online portal, along with any required documentation.

10.8. What is the Federal Benefits Open Season?

The Federal Benefits Open Season is an annual period when federal employees and annuitants can enroll in, change, or cancel their FEHB coverage. The Open Season typically runs from mid-November to mid-December each year.

10.9. How Do I Choose a Health Plan?

To choose a health plan, consider the following factors:

Your health needs and those of your family members.
Your budget and how much you can afford to pay in premiums, deductibles, and copayments.
Your preferred type of health plan (HMO, PPO, fee-for-service).
The availability of doctors and hospitals in your area.
The plan’s coverage for prescription drugs, mental health services, and other specialized care.

Review the plan brochures for different FEHB plans and compare their coverage and costs to find the one that best fits your needs.

10.10. Where Can I Get Help with FEHB Enrollment?

You can get help with FEHB enrollment from:

Your agency’s HR department.
The