Key Takeaways

• You can streamline your Open Season decisions by using trusted online tools available through official USPS and OPM platforms.

• Access to plan comparison features, cost estimators, and enrollment platforms can help avoid common errors and save hours of research and paperwork.

Why Online Tools Matter During Open Season

Open Season only comes once a year, typically from early November to early December. For USPS employees and retirees, this is your opportunity to evaluate health coverage, dental and vision plans, and flexible spending accounts. Making the wrong decision—or missing the window altogether—can impact your healthcare and out-of-pocket expenses for the entire following year.

That’s where online tools come in. In 2025, there are more resources than ever to help you make well-informed decisions without the confusion or time-consuming paperwork.

Who Should Use These Tools?

Whether you’re an active USPS employee or a retiree, the tools available during Open Season are designed to help:

• Active USPS employees can access LiteBlue to view, compare, and change benefits.

• Retirees should use the KeepingPosted.org platform, which includes plan brochures, enrollment instructions, and additional support.

• Dual-enrollment households (one retiree, one employee) may benefit from viewing both portals to ensure comprehensive coverage alignment.

1. LiteBlue for USPS Employees

LiteBlue is your command center during Open Season. It’s the primary site USPS employees use to:

• View current coverage

• Compare available Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) plans

• Access side-by-side comparisons

• Make Open Season elections securely

The 2025 PSHB Open Season runs from November to December, so keep an eye on announcements. Within LiteBlue, the “Open Season” tab becomes active during this window.

Key Features:

• Plan Comparison Tool: Shows side-by-side comparisons of coverage, premiums, deductibles, copayments, and maximum out-of-pocket limits.

• Cost Estimators: Helps you project expected costs based on anticipated usage.

• Secure Access: Requires an EIN and password to prevent unauthorized access.

2. KeepingPosted.org for USPS Retirees

If you’re retired, KeepingPosted.org is your go-to platform. It’s tailored for annuitants and offers:

• Plan brochures in downloadable formats

• Access to the PSHB Navigator Help Line

• Instructions on how to make changes or continue current coverage

2025 Tip:

Medicare-eligible retirees need to pay special attention. Certain PSHB plans integrate with Medicare Part B, offering reduced deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. You must remain enrolled in both PSHB and Medicare Part B to receive the full range of benefits.

3. OPM Plan Comparison Tool

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) provides a powerful Plan Comparison Tool accessible to both employees and retirees. You can use this tool to:

• Compare multiple PSHB plans available in your ZIP code

• Sort by cost, deductible, and plan features

• View estimated annual costs including premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance

Best Practices:

• Start with your ZIP code to filter plans available in your region

• Use the toggles to include or exclude Medicare coordination

• Compare at least three plans side-by-side

4. Medicare Plan Finders (for Medicare-Eligible Individuals)

For Medicare-eligible retirees or family members, the Medicare.gov Plan Finder helps coordinate PSHB coverage with Medicare Part D.

Starting in 2025, most PSHB plans include a Medicare Part D Employer Group Waiver Plan (EGWP), offering:

• A $2,000 annual out-of-pocket cap on drug costs

• A $35 monthly cap on insulin

• Expanded pharmacy network access

Using the Plan Finder, you can verify that your medications are covered and that your PSHB plan aligns with your Medicare benefits.

5. Flexible Spending Account Calculators

If you’re an active USPS employee and eligible for FSAFEDS, the Flexible Spending Account calculator is essential. In 2025, the health care FSA contribution limit is $3,300, with up to $660 carryover allowed.

Use the calculator to:

• Estimate annual healthcare and dependent care expenses

• Determine your ideal contribution amount

• Avoid forfeiting unused funds

Tip:

You must re-enroll every Open Season, even if you participated the previous year. Enrollment does not carry over.

6. Online Enrollment Portals

During Open Season, you can make benefit elections or changes entirely online:

• LiteBlue (for employees): Choose or change health, dental, vision, and FSAFEDS options

• KeepingPosted.org (for retirees): Instructions on submitting enrollment via the Retirement Information Center or online where available

Enrollment Window for 2025:

• Runs from November to December

• Changes take effect January 1, 2026

Make sure you receive confirmation of your submitted changes. Keep a copy for your records.

7. PSHB Navigator Help Line

For personalized help, USPS retirees can contact the PSHB Navigator Help Line at 1-833-712-7742. This resource can assist with:

• Navigating KeepingPosted.org

• Understanding Medicare Part B requirements

• Clarifying plan options and coverage details

While it’s not an online tool, the Navigator line supports online decision-making by helping you interpret what you find on the web platforms.

8. Email and Text Alerts

Both OPM and USPS offer optional alerts via email and text:

• Enrollment reminders

• Deadline alerts

• Plan updates and premium notifications

Opting into these alerts ensures you never miss critical Open Season news.

9. Plan Brochures and FAQs

Each PSHB plan provides detailed brochures with breakdowns of benefits, exclusions, cost-sharing, and provider access. These are available as PDFs through both LiteBlue and KeepingPosted.org.

Look for:

• Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC)

• Changes from the previous year

• FAQs on coordination with Medicare and other coverage

Make Use of These Tools Now to Save Time and Money

Using the right tools now helps you avoid last-minute stress, unexpected costs, and coverage gaps. The USPS and OPM platforms are purpose-built to empower you with the knowledge you need to make confident decisions during the 2025 Open Season.

When used correctly, these tools help ensure:

• You pick the plan that fits your current health and budget needs

• You understand how PSHB works with Medicare (if applicable)

• You avoid overpaying or under-insuring yourself for the upcoming year

Plan Smarter This Open Season

Online resources exist to save you time and prevent costly mistakes. From LiteBlue and KeepingPosted.org to OPM’s comparison tools, you have everything you need at your fingertips. Make sure to review plan documents, confirm enrollment changes, and coordinate with Medicare if applicable.

Still have questions? Reach out to a licensed agent listed on this website for professional guidance on navigating the 2025 Open Season.