Employees should contact the Human Resources Benefits Office at retirement@fsu.edu or (850) 644-6034 at least one month prior to their retirement effective date to complete all necessary paperwork regarding the continuation or termination of insurance coverage.
Retirees have the option to maintain their health and life insurance coverage through the State of Florida. Please note that People First will automatically continue both your health and retiree life insurance coverage. If you do not wish to keep this coverage, you must complete and submit the New Retiree Health & Life Insurance Election Form opting out of the coverage.
Dental and vision insurance may be continued under COBRA provisions for up to 18 months. A COBRA information packet will be automatically mailed by People First following the employee’s last day of work.
For all other supplemental insurance plans (e.g., cancer, hospitalization), retirees should contact the respective insurance provider(s) directly to determine available continuation options.
Helpful Links
- State of Florida Retiree Health Benefits and Resources
- State Group Insurance Benefits Package for New Retirees
- Retiree Insurance Premium Rates
- Retiree Term Life Insurance
- Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans
Medicare and Your Employer Health Coverage
If you or your spouse is turning 65 and plans to continue working, your health insurance will remain under the FSU Employer Group Health Plan. This plan will continue to be your primary health coverage, but you should take the following steps regarding Medicare:
Medicare Part A
- What it covers: Hospitalization
- Cost: No premium
- Action: Enroll in Medicare Part A during your initial enrollment period (around age 65). While you likely won’t use this coverage now, signing up ensures you avoid future penalties.
Medicare Part B
- What it covers: Doctor visits and outpatient services
- Cost: Monthly premium
- Action: Defer Medicare Part B since your employer health plan remains primary. When you retire, you’ll qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to enroll in Part B without penalty.
How to Enroll
The easiest way to enroll in Part A and defer Part B is online by logging into your account at www.ssa.gov. You can complete this process:
- Up to 4 months before your birthday month
- During your birthday month
- Up to 3 months after your birthday month
For step-by-step guidance, check out these helpful videos:
