What FEDVIP Covers
FEDVIP is a voluntary, premiumbased program that offers a range of dental and vision coverage options to eligible federal employees, retirees, and their eligible family members. The program is administered by private insurance carriers selected through a competitive bid process.
- Comprehensive preventive dental care (cleanings, exams, Xrays).
- Restorative services (fillings, crowns, root canals).
- Orthodontics for children and adults (where offered).
- Eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, and laser eye surgery discounts.
- Optional addons such as fluoride treatments, denture coverage, and lens coatings.
Who Can Participate
Eligibility is determined by the employees status and length of service. In general, the following groups may enroll:
- Current Federal employees (including members of the Uniformed Services) who are eligible for Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB).
- Retirees and annuitants who are enrolled in FEHB.
- Family members (spouse, children, and, where permitted, other dependents) of eligible participants.
Employees who are covered under a Federal employee health plan that already includes dental or vision benefits (such as certain group plans) may still elect a FEDVIP plan if they wish to change carriers or obtain additional coverage.
How to Enroll
Enrollment occurs during the Federal Benefits Open Season, typically held in the fall. The steps are:
- Visit the official FEDVIP website or the OPM Benefits portal.
- Log in using your Federal Employee ID (or SSO credentials for retirees).
- Review the available plans, compare premiums, deductibles, and coverage levels.
- Select the plan(s) you want for dental, vision, or both.
- Complete the enrollment form and submit payment information for the monthly premium.
- Within 23 weeks you will receive an ID card and enrollment confirmation.
If you miss the Open Season, you may still enroll during a qualifying life event (e.g., marriage, birth of a child, loss of other coverage) by submitting a special enrollment request.
Understanding Costs
FEDVIP is a premiumonly program; there is no employer contribution. Costs are deducted from your paycheck on a pretax basis, which can lower your taxable income.
| Plan Type | Monthly Premium (approx.) | Annual Maximum | Typical Deductible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Dental | $12 $18 | $1,250 | $0 for preventive |
| Standard Dental | $19 $28 | $1,500 | $0 for preventive, $25 for major |
| Premium Dental | $30 $45 | Unlimited | $0 for most services |
| Basic Vision | $5 $8 | $150 allowance | $0 |
| Standard Vision | $9 $12 | $250 allowance | $0 |
| Premium Vision | $13 $18 | $350 allowance | $0 |
Exact amounts vary by carrier, geographic location, and whether you elect coverage for spouse or children.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I have both FEDVIP and a private plan?
- No. Federal rules prohibit dual coverage for dental or vision. If you already have a private plan, you must discontinue it before enrolling in FEDVIP.
- What happens if I change jobs within the federal government?
- Your FEDVIP coverage continues as long as you remain eligible for FEHB. You can keep the same plan or switch during the next Open Season.
- Are there age limits for orthodontic coverage?
- Most carriers limit orthodontic benefits to dependents under 19 years of age, though some premium plans extend coverage to adult participants.
- How are claims processed?
- Most carriers use direct billing with participating dentists and eye care providers. In cases where you must pay upfront, you can submit a claim online or by mail for reimbursement.
- Can I add my spouse later?
- Spouses can be added during Open Season or after a qualifying life event. Adding a spouse may increase the premium.
- What if Im a parttime federal employee?
- Parttime employees who are eligible for FEHB may also enroll in FEDVIP, though eligibility rules can differ by agency.
