Who Is Eligible?

Most federal employees, including part-time employees, are eligible to enroll in the Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) Program. If you have a question about eligibility, see the Management Division, Benefits Section. Participation is entirely voluntary. However, if you are eligible, you are automatically enrolled in Basic unless you waive this coverage. You will be enrolled in Optional insurance only if you elect it.

Eligible dependent children must be unmarried and under age 22, or if age 22 or over, incapable of self-support because of a mental or physical disability that existed before the child reached age 22. Eligible dependent children include your natural children, adopted children, stepchildren (if they live with you in a regular parent child relationship), recognized natural children, and foster children (if they live with you in a regular parent-child relationship). Stillborn children are not covered.

If you have any questions about eligible family members, please consult the Management Division, Benefits Section. That office is responsible for determining eligibility.

   When Does Coverage Begin?  

Basic life insurance coverage is effective on the first day you enter in a pay and duty status unless you waive this coverage before the end of your first pay period. You may waive Basic at any time; the waiver will be effective at the end of the last day of the pay period in which the Management Division, Benefits Section receives it.

Optional insurance for new employees is effective on the first day you are in a pay and duty status on or after the day the Management Division, Benefits Section receives your affirmative election. You have 31 days from the date of your appointment to an eligible position in order to elect Optional insurance.

Pay and duty status means you are at work and not on annual or sick leave, excused absence, or otherwise absent from duty.

You must complete a Life Insurance Election (SF 2817) to waive insurance or to elect Optional insurance. If you do not complete an election form, you will automatically be enrolled in Basic only, and your agency will withhold premiums from your pay.