Important Dates for Federal Employees: October 2026 to January 2027

Federal employees and retirees have several important dates to keep in mind as 2026 comes to a close. Open Season runs November 9 through December 14, the current government funding measure expires December 11, and the 2027 federal retirement COLA takes effect December 1.

The end of the year also brings deadlines for annual leave, retirement planning and health insurance changes. Here are the dates to know and why they matter.

What Are the Important Dates for Federal Employees This Fall?

What Dates Matter Most for Open Season?

Open Season runs from November 9 through December 14, giving eligible employees and annuitants an opportunity to review health, dental and vision coverage for 2027. Eligible employees can also make elections through FSAFEDS.

Health insurance costs are increasing for many enrollees. The average enrollee share of FEHB premiums is rising 10.9%, while the average PSHB enrollee share is rising 8.2%. Nine FEHB plan options and one PSHB plan are also leaving the programs, meaning some enrollees may need to select new coverage.

Don’t focus on premiums alone. Compare deductibles, provider networks, prescription coverage and expected healthcare expenses before deciding whether to keep your current plan. Retirees who are eligible for Medicare should also consider how Medicare and their federal health plan work together.

What Dates Matter for Retirement and the COLA?

The 2027 COLA is 3.6% for Social Security beneficiaries and CSRS retirees. Eligible FERS retirees generally receive 2.6%, and most must be at least 62 by December 1, 2026, to qualify.

The adjustment takes effect December 1, 2026, and appears in eligible federal annuity payments issued January 4, 2027. Retirees who began receiving an annuity during the previous year may receive a prorated increase.

Retirement timing matters, too. Under FERS, an annuity generally begins on the first day of the month after separation, assuming the employee meets the applicable retirement requirements. An eligible employee who separates on December 31 may therefore have an annuity commencement date of January 1.

Before choosing a retirement date, confirm application deadlines with your agency’s HR office. Also consider the leave year: retiring before January 9 may allow you to receive a lump-sum payment for unused annual leave that would otherwise be forfeited above the applicable carryover limit.

What Could Change These Dates?

The December 11 funding deadline deserves attention. The current continuing resolution provides funding through that date. Unless Congress passes full-year appropriations or another funding measure, a funding gap could begin December 12 and affect federal operations.

Other details, including agency guidance and benefits administration, may change as new information becomes available. Employees should check official agency communications for updates that affect their individual circumstances.

Planning for Retirement? Make Sure the Details Add Up.

Open Season, retirement timing, health insurance and annual leave can all affect your financial plans. If you’re approaching retirement or reviewing your federal benefits, a personalized review can help you understand your options and identify questions to resolve before making a decision.

Schedule a complimentary benefits review with a Federal Retirement Consultant (FRC®) to discuss your pension, TSP, health insurance and retirement timeline. There’s no obligation, just an opportunity to better understand your federal benefits.