Key Takeaways

• You now need to understand which official resources can help you transition into the new PSHB program, especially if you’re a USPS employee or retiree.

• Many updates are in effect in 2025, including Medicare requirements, drug coverage changes, and access portals, so using the correct channels for information is crucial.

Understanding the Shift to PSHB in 2025

The Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program officially replaced the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program for USPS employees and retirees starting January 1, 2025. This transition stems from the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022, which mandated the change. As a USPS employee or annuitant, your health benefits now come under the PSHB umbrella.

If you’re unsure about what this means for you, you’re not alone. The good news is there are several official resources designed to help you understand this new program, get your questions answered, and make informed decisions.

Who Is Affected by This Change?

This change affects:

• All USPS employees currently enrolled in FEHB.

• USPS annuitants and family members.

• Medicare-eligible individuals under a USPS plan.

You are required to enroll in a PSHB plan during Open Season unless you’re covered as a family member under a federal employee’s FEHB plan or meet specific exemption criteria.

The Role of Open Season

The most recent Open Season ran from November 11 to December 9, 2024. During this time, you had the opportunity to:

• Enroll in a PSHB plan.

• Make changes to your existing USPS-related health coverage.

• Review your plan options and cost structures.

Going forward, the annual Open Season continues to be your opportunity to reevaluate your plan or make adjustments.

Where to Start: PSHB Navigator Help Line

One of the most valuable tools at your disposal is the PSHB Navigator Help Line. By calling 1-833-712-7742, you can speak directly with trained personnel who are equipped to answer:

• Eligibility questions.

• Enrollment concerns.

• Medicare integration details.

This line operates during business hours and is specifically designed for USPS employees and retirees adjusting to PSHB.

Use KeepingPosted.org for Annuitants

If you’re a USPS retiree, KeepingPosted.org is your go-to platform. This website provides:

• Access to plan brochures.

• Tools to compare PSHB plans.

• Instructions for enrolling or changing coverage.

It’s built to support annuitants who may not have access to internal USPS systems. You can also find up-to-date news, FAQs, and step-by-step guides.

LiteBlue for Current Employees

If you’re still actively employed by USPS, LiteBlue is your main portal for PSHB information. Through LiteBlue, you can:

• Access enrollment platforms.

• Review your current benefits.

• Read official USPS communications regarding PSHB.

Remember to log in using your Employee ID and USPS PIN. It’s crucial to check LiteBlue periodically during Open Season and anytime a Qualifying Life Event (QLE) occurs.

Medicare Part B Enrollment Requirements

Starting in 2025, certain Medicare-eligible USPS annuitants and their family members are required to enroll in Medicare Part B to maintain PSHB coverage. You are required to enroll in Part B if:

• You are a Medicare-eligible annuitant.

• You are a covered family member of a Medicare-eligible annuitant.

However, there are exceptions. You may be exempt if:

• You retired on or before January 1, 2025.

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

• You reside outside the United States.

• You receive healthcare from the VA or Indian Health Services.

For these exceptions, it’s essential to confirm your status through OPM or the PSHB Navigator Help Line.

Understand Prescription Drug Coverage

PSHB integrates prescription drug coverage with Medicare Part D through an Employer Group Waiver Plan (EGWP). As of 2025, this includes:

• A $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket drug costs.

• Coverage through an expanded pharmacy network.

• Automatic enrollment in the EGWP for Medicare-eligible enrollees.

If you choose to opt out of this coverage, you risk losing prescription benefits under PSHB. You also may not be able to re-enroll until a future Open Season or unless you experience a QLE.

Special Enrollment Period Recap

If you became newly eligible for Medicare Part B between April 1 and September 30, 2024, a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) was offered to enroll without a late penalty. This was a one-time opportunity to prepare for the PSHB transition. If you missed that SEP, your next window would typically be the General Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31, with coverage starting July 1.

OPM’s Role in PSHB Administration

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) continues to oversee the administration of PSHB. On the OPM website, you can find:

• Official plan comparison tools.

• Eligibility guidelines.

• Announcements and plan updates.

OPM remains the authority on benefits policy and compliance. Whether you’re comparing plans or verifying eligibility, this is a reliable place to start.

Qualifying Life Events (QLEs) and PSHB

A QLE allows you to change your PSHB coverage outside of Open Season. These events include:

• Marriage or divorce.

• Birth or adoption.

• Loss of other health coverage.

• Change in employment status.

When a QLE happens, you typically have 60 days to make changes. Use LiteBlue or KeepingPosted.org, depending on your employment status, to report the event and adjust your benefits accordingly.

Coordinating Other Benefits

Remember, PSHB only replaces FEHB for USPS employees and retirees. It does not affect your eligibility for:

• FEDVIP (dental and vision plans).

• FEGLI (life insurance).

• FSAFEDS (Flexible Spending Accounts).

• FLTCIP (long-term care insurance).

Each of these benefits remains under its original program and is administered separately. Use the official program websites to manage them.

Watch for Notifications

Before and during each Open Season, you will receive an official notification about your current coverage and any necessary actions. These notices include:

• Auto-enrollment information.

• Plan comparison summaries.

• Instructions if action is required on your part.

Don’t ignore these notices. Even if you’re automatically enrolled in a corresponding PSHB plan, reviewing your coverage ensures it still meets your needs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the most of official resources, avoid these pitfalls:

• Missing deadlines: Keep track of Open Season and SEP timelines.

• Ignoring Medicare rules: If you’re required to enroll in Part B, don’t delay.

• Overlooking updates: Rely on official platforms like LiteBlue and KeepingPosted.org—not unofficial sources.

• Skipping plan reviews: Your health needs may have changed, so should your coverage.

Use the official tools mentioned to double-check that your decisions are up to date and meet all eligibility requirements.

Relying on Verified Resources Makes the Transition Easier

There’s no need to feel overwhelmed. You have direct access to verified tools and platforms that help you make informed choices. USPS employees and retirees are supported through every stage of this transition if they use the right sources.

Use these tools to your advantage:

• PSHB Navigator Help Line

• KeepingPosted.org

• LiteBlue

• OPM.gov

Each one is designed to support you in different stages of your employment or retirement journey.

Stay Informed and Use Official Help to Your Advantage

The transition to PSHB is a significant shift, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Use the official resources made specifically for USPS employees and retirees to simplify the process and avoid confusion. Whether you’re currently working or retired, staying informed through OPM, LiteBlue, or KeepingPosted.org can help you feel confident about your benefits.

If you’re still unsure, speak with a licensed agent listed on this website for personalized assistance and to make sure you’re covered the right way.