Ed Zurndorfer discusses the distinct types of health insurance plans offered through the Federal Employees Health Benefits program during this open season, and why federal employees should take a fresh look at their options for next year to best meets their medical needs at the least possible cost more…
Recent Articles
How Flexible Spending Accounts Help Ease Sting of Increasing Medical Expenses
A health care flexible spending account (FSA or HCFSA) is one of the most tax-efficient ways to pay out-of-pocket medical, dental and vision expenses. Ed Zurndorfer discusses why federal employees should consider enrolling during open season. Practical examples of the tax-saving benefits are included more…
Democrats Propose to Ban RIFs During Government Shutdowns
If passed, the legislation would also reverse Reduction In Force actions taken during the most recent government shutdown more…
FEHB Open Season: Tips for Making Changes and Pre-Retirement Checklist
Ed Zurndorfer discusses choices that employees and retirees have in this year’s Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) open season (Nov. 10 – Dec. 8). Included are tips for making changes and a checklist for those who intend to retire soon and want to keep their FEHB enrollment in retirement more…
Federal Employees, Retirees Should Review Dental & Vision Insurance Needs During Open Season
Ed Zurndorfer outlines the federal dental insurance plan (FEDVIP) including premium costs, eligibility enrollment types, and the steps to enroll more…
How to Appeal Medicare Part B & Medicare D High Monthly Premiums
Ed Zurndofer explains how Medicare Part B and Part D enrollees can appeal an income-related monthly adjustment amount that’s in addition to the standard monthly premium. Practical examples and what to do if the appeal is denied are included more…
Medicare Issues Facing Federal Employees Working Past Age 65
Ed Zurndorfer provides an update to common questions concerning Medicare enrollment for federal employees who continue to work in federal service past age 65. Should they enroll in Medicare Part A or B? How does the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program affect Medicare coverage? more…
How Medicare Part B Beneficiaries Can Pay Their Monthly Premiums
Ed Zurndorfer discusses the various options available to a Medicare Part B beneficiary to pay his or her monthly premium more…
What Happens to Unused Annual Leave When a Federal Employee Retires?
Ed Zurndorfer explains how a lump-sum payment is calculated for unused annual leave hours when separating from federal service, and outlines the tax considerations. Practical examples are included more…
Is Enhanced Medicare Part D a Good Option for Federal Retirees?
Since 2024, the Office of Personnel Management has been encouraging Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plans to adopt the improved Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage as an alternative to FEHB prescription coverage. Ed Zurndorfer explains what federal retirees enrolled in certain FEHB health plans and Medicare need to know about automatic enrollment in Medicare Part D plans associated with an FEHB health plan more…