Q. I accepted a buyout in 1997 under the Federal Employees Retirement System. I had 22 years of continuous service at that time but was under age 50, so I couldn’t retire. In February, I will be 60 and eligible to receive my pension. I was covered by the federal health insurance program for my entire federal career. Can I opt into it when I start receiving my benefits in February?
A. No, you can’t. Anyone receiving a deferred annuity, like you will be, can’t re-enroll in the Federal Employees Health Benefits program.
