FEDVIP
Who can get FEDVIP dental and vision coverage, how pre-tax premiums work for employees, when to enroll, and a calculator.
FEDVIP pre-tax savings calculator
What FEDVIP is
The Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) offers stand-alone dental and vision plans to federal and Postal employees, federal annuitants and, since 2019, certain TRICARE-eligible people such as uniformed services retirees, who lost the old TRICARE Retiree Dental Program. Plans have no pre-existing condition limits, and you choose Self Only, Self Plus One or Self and Family.
Pre-tax for employees
For enrolled federal and Postal employees, premiums are withheld from salary on a pre-tax basis (OPM), so you save federal and state income tax and, below the Social Security wage base, 7.65% FICA. Annuitants and retirees pay premiums from their annuity or retired pay after tax. Example: $30 every two weeks saves an employee in the 22% bracket with 5% state tax about $270 a year.
When to enroll
Enroll or change plans during the annual Federal Benefits Open Season in November and December, or within 60 days of becoming eligible or a qualifying life event. Planning retirement? See the FERS retirement calculator.
Common questions
Are FEDVIP premiums pre-tax?
Yes for federal and Postal employees; annuitants and retirees pay after tax.
Can military retirees get FEDVIP?
Yes, certain TRICARE-eligible people, including uniformed services retirees, since 2019.
When can I enroll in FEDVIP?
During Federal Benefits Open Season in November and December, or after a qualifying event.
Sources
More paycheck and tax calculators: Excise Tax · FBAR Filing · FICA Tax · Form 1099R
Related
General information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Check important numbers with the official source before acting on them.