Q: What is the exception for automatic coverage under the Federal Employees Retirement System for federal employees hired on or after Jan. 1, 1987, and for most employees hired after Dec. 31, 1983? A: There are number of exceptions to the automatic FERS coverage you referred to. To find out what they are, go to this handbook on the Office of Personnel Management website and scroll down to Section 10A1.3-5, entitled “FERS: Exclusions.”