What is FEDVIP dental and vision insurance?
Quick Answer
FEDVIP is a federal dental and vision insurance program for military retirees and their families. It replaced the TRICARE Retiree Dental Program and offers multiple plan options during Federal Benefits Open Season each November-December.
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Key Takeaways
- FEDVIP provides dental and vision insurance for retirees and families
- Multiple plan options with different premiums and coverage levels
- Enrollment is during Federal Benefits Open Season in November-December
- Premiums are fully paid by the enrollee with no government subsidy
Detailed Answer
The Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) provides voluntary dental and vision insurance to eligible military beneficiaries, similar to what federal civilian employees receive.
Who Is Eligible
- Military retirees (including Gray Area retirees)
- Family members of military retirees
- Surviving spouses and family members
- Medal of Honor recipients and their families
- Active duty family members are eligible for FEDVIP vision plans
- Active duty family members enrolled in TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) are NOT eligible for FEDVIP dental
Available Plans
- Multiple dental plan options from different insurance carriers
- Multiple vision plan options from different carriers
- Plans vary by coverage levels, premiums, and provider networks
- You can choose dental only, vision only, or both
Dental Coverage Highlights
- Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays)
- Basic services (fillings, extractions, root canals)
- Major services (crowns, bridges, dentures)
- Orthodontics (available with some plans)
- Annual maximum benefits vary by plan
Vision Coverage Highlights
- Annual eye exams
- Allowances for glasses or contact lenses
- Discounts on LASIK and other vision correction
- Frame and lens coverage
Enrollment
- Enroll during Federal Benefits Open Season (mid-November through mid-December)
- Changes take effect January 1 of the following year
- Qualifying life events allow mid-year enrollment changes
- Enroll through benefeds.com or call 1-877-888-FEDS (3337)
Costs
- Premiums vary by plan, coverage level, and number of family members
- Premiums are paid by the enrollee (no government subsidy for military retirees)
- Compare plans and premiums at benefeds.com before enrolling
Important Notes
- FEDVIP replaced the old TRICARE Retiree Dental Program (TRDP)
- Active duty members receive dental care at MTFs and are not eligible for FEDVIP dental
- FEDVIP is separate from TRICARE medical coverage
Helpful Tips
- Compare all available plans at benefeds.com before choosing during Open Season
- Consider both dental and vision plans for comprehensive coverage
- Check which providers in your area accept your chosen plan before enrolling
Related TRICARE Terms
Related Questions
What is TRICARE For Life and who qualifies?
TRICARE For Life is Medicare wraparound coverage for TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries age 65+ who have Medicare Parts A and B.
Does TRICARE cover dental care?
TRICARE medical plans include limited dental (emergency only). Separate dental insurance available through FEDVIP program.
Does TRICARE cover eye exams and glasses?
TRICARE covers medical eye care and exams for conditions/diseases. Routine vision exams and glasses require separate FEDVIP vision insurance.
What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
Supplemental health insurance is the most common addition — it covers dental, vision, and out-of-pocket costs that TRICARE leaves uncovered. Life insurance and a legal will are also highly recommended.
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