Effect on Benefits
This webpage will discuss the impact leave without pay (LWOP) has on your federal benefits and other programs.
Topic |
Details |
|---|---|
| Life Insurance - FEGLI | FEGLI coverage continues for up to 12 months of non-pay status. No payment is required during this period. After 12 months, you'll have the option to convert your policy to an individual policy. |
| Health Insurance - FEHB |
FEHB coverage will continue for up to 365 days of non-pay status. You have the option to terminate or continue your coverage during the period of non-pay status. If you elect to terminate your coverage, you will have a 60-day opportunity to re-enroll in FEHB upon return to a pay status. If you have FEHB coverage, please read the Notice of Intent Agreement. Select your preference and return it to AskBenefits@nih.gov or your designated OHR Benefits contact. |
| FLTCIP | LTC policies remain unaffected by non-pay status. If premiums are salary-deducted, switch to another payment plan through a Billing Change Form or contact LTC Partners at 1-800-LTC-FEDS. |
| Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) |
FSA contributions cease during non-pay status. Options vary based on leave without pay reasons. Refer to the non-pay Quick Reference Guide or contact FSAFEDS at 1-877-FSA-FEDS for more information. |
| Retirement | Retirement coverage continues without contributions during non-pay status. LWOP up to six months in a calendar year is fully creditable for retirement purposes; LWOP exceeding six months is not creditable. |
| Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) |
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions will stop when your salary stops. Agency contributions also stop. Notify the TSP service office at 1-877-968-3778 if you have a TSP loan, as payments will be suspended. Refer to the TSP Fact Sheet – Effect of Non-Pay Status on TSP Participation for more information. |
| Dental and Vision - FEDVIP |
FEDVIP coverage may require direct billing after two consecutive pay periods of insufficient pay. Missed payments result in policy termination. For inquiries, contact BENEFEDS at 1-877-888-FEDS or visit the BENEFEDS billing and payments website. |
| Leave | Accrual of annual or sick leave ceases during non-pay status and resumes upon return to pay status. Intermittent non-pay status affects leave accruals. Excess non-pay status of more than six months delays advancement in leave categories. |
For additional information, refer to OPM’s Fact Sheet: Effect of Extended LWOP on Federal Benefits and Programs.