The Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program is set to replace the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program for postal employees and retirees beginning this January. While many Medicare-eligible retirees and their family members must now enroll in Medicare Part B to keep their PSHB coverage, there are specific exceptions that provide relief to certain individuals.

Who Needs to Enroll?
Under the new PSHB guidelines, most Medicare-eligible retirees and family members are required to enroll in Medicare Part B as soon as they become eligible. This represents a shift from the previous FEHB program, where Medicare Part B enrollment was not mandatory. Staying enrolled in Part B will be crucial for ensuring continued access to PSHB benefits.

Who is Exempt from Medicare Part B Enrollment?
Some retirees and their families will be exempt from this new requirement. Key exceptions include:

• Retirees Who Left Before January 1, 2025:
  Individuals who retired from the Postal Service on or before this date—and who are not already enrolled in Medicare Part B—will not need to enroll to maintain PSHB coverage. Their family members also qualify for this exemption.
• Employees Aged 64 or Older as of January 1, 2025:
  Those who reach this age threshold won’t be required to enroll in Medicare Part B after retirement. Their family members share the same exemption.
• Retirees Living Abroad:
  Retirees and their family members residing outside the United States and its territories can forgo Medicare Part B enrollment. If they return to the U.S., however, they may need to enroll.
• Individuals with Certain VA or IHS Benefits:
  Those eligible for specific health benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Indian Health Service (IHS) are not required to enroll in Medicare Part B. This exemption also applies to their family members, regardless of their individual VA or IHS eligibility.

What Should You Do Next?
With the January deadline approaching, it’s important to understand how these changes impact you and your family. Take the time to review your current Medicare and retirement benefits so you can make informed decisions. If you have questions about your coverage, contact Commonwealth Strategy Advisors for more information. To get a personalized review of your benefits and Medicare options, schedule a meeting with one of our advisors today.