Most employees are eligible for Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) coverage., which provides group term life insurance. As such, it does not build up any cash value or paid-up value.  It consists of Basic life insurance coverage and three options.  In most cases, if you are a new Federal employee, you are automatically covered by Basic life insurance and your premiums are deducted from your paycheck unless you waive the coverage. In addition to the Basic, there are three forms of Optional insurance you can elect. However, you must have Basic insurance in order to elect any of the options. Unlike Basic enrollment, Optional insurance is not automatic -- you must take action to elect the options.  You must specifically elect the types of optional insurance you wish to carry within 31 days of becoming eligible.

FEGLI is not part of the annual Federal Benefit Open Season.  Outside of an open season, eligible employees can enroll or increase their FEGLI coverage by taking a physical exam or with a Qualifying Life Event.  For more information about the FEGLI physical exam, please see SF 2822 (PDF file).

For more information visit:   https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/life-insurance/