Federal benefits in the United States form the backbone of social support for millions of citizens, federal employees, retirees, veterans, and their families. These benefits encompass everything from health insurance and retirement plans to financial aid and food assistance, reflecting the nation’s commitment to ensuring well-being and resilience.
The scope of federal benefits is vast. For federal employees, comprehensive health care, dental, and vision plans are available through the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB) and the Federal Employee Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). Most employees can also access flexible spending accounts for medical or dependent care expenses. Retirement security is delivered by the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which combines a basic benefit plan, a Thrift Savings Plan (akin to a 401(k)), and Social Security contributions.
But federal benefits go far beyond the workforce. Social Security itself covers retirees, disabled individuals, survivors, and those facing unemployment. Financial assistance programs, ranging from housing vouchers to food stamps (SNAP), target low-income families, children, and vulnerable adults—helping to reduce poverty and improve access to necessities.
Specialized programs exist to provide additional support to groups like veterans and their dependents, offering education aid, health care, home loans, and survivor benefits. The array of benefits is adjusted and expanded periodically in response to evolving needs and legislative changes.
Recent years have seen significant updates: for 2025, health insurance premiums under FEHB are rising—the average increase is 13.5%—while new options for in vitro fertilization and anti-obesity treatments have been added. The Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program launches more broadly, offering new plan options to USPS employees with a lower premium increase than standard FEHB plans.
Ultimately, federal benefits are more than just individual programs; together, they represent the government’s strategy for safeguarding economic security and fostering social progress across all demographics.