OPM has released 2027 Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program plan options and premium rates, and enrollees will pay an average of 10.9% more toward premiums next year, according to FNN — Benefits. The agency published the information ahead of this fall's Open Season.
Key Facts
- Average increase: Enrollees will pay 10.9% more, on average, toward premiums in 2027.
- Who is affected: Federal employees and retirees enrolled in FEHB plans.
- What OPM released: The 2027 plan options and premium rates, available before Open Season begins.
- Action window: Open Season is the annual period when enrollees can change plans, options, or enrollment type. It typically runs from the second Monday in November through the second Monday in December.
- Averages vary: The 10.9% figure is an overall average. Changes will differ by plan, option, and enrollment type (Self Only, Self Plus One, or Self and Family).
What It Means For You
Premium changes in your current plan may differ from the average, so check the 2027 rates for your specific plan before Open Season starts.
As an illustration, an enrollee paying $200 per pay period toward premiums would pay about $222 at a 10.9% increase. Your actual cost depends on your plan and enrollment type.
Enrollees should:
- Compare 2027 premiums for your current plan against other plans available in your area.
- Review changes to benefits, networks, and cost-sharing, not just premiums.
- Confirm that your doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions are still covered.
- Check whether your family's needs have changed.
- Make any changes during Open Season. Outside of a qualifying life event, you generally cannot switch plans until the next one.
Enrollees who take no action stay in their current plan at the new 2027 rates. A FEHB value guide can help you weigh premiums against total plan value.
Context
FEHB premiums are shared between enrollees and the government. Both shares are set each year based on plan rates, so an increase in total premiums affects what enrollees pay out of pocket.
Retirees should also review their options, since many carry FEHB coverage into retirement and pay premiums from their annuity.
Enrollees should consult OPM's official plan brochures and premium tables for the full 2027 details on their plans.
Source: FNN — Benefits