Benefits Overview

Federal Judiciary Benefits Program
2 

Judiciary benefits philosophy

On recommendation of the Judicial Resources Committee, the Judicial Conference approved the following judiciary benefits 

philosophy statement:

A goal of the judiciary is to be a model employer so it may attract and retain well-qualified employees. The judiciary’s employee 

benefits program is an important tool in attracting and retaining these employees. Therefore, the judiciary’s benefits program 

will be one that is responsive to the reasonable needs of employees, is competitive in the market place and is fiscally responsible. 

With that in mind, the judiciary’s benefits program provides a wide range of benefits and choices so you can create a package 

to “BeneFit” your individual needs.
3

4 BeneFit for Life

5 Enrolling in your benefits

6 BeneFit Checklist for newly hired employees

8 How to enroll

9 Defining benefits eligibility

10 Qualifying Life Events (QLEs)

11 Federal Judiciary Benefits Program

	 11	 federal employees health benefits (fehb) program

	 12	 federal employees’ group life insurance (fegli)

	 13	 flexible benefit program administered by benefitwallet®

13 Premium Payment Plan (PPP)

14 Health Care Reimbursement Account (HCRA)

15 Limited Purpose Health Care Reimbursement Account (LPHCRA)

16 Dependent Care Reimbursement Account (DCRA)

16 FSA calculator

	 17	 commuter benefit program

17 Mass Transit Account

18 Parking Reimbursement Account

	 18	 benefitwallet debit card

18	 transportation subsidy program

19	 federal employees dental and vision insurance program (fedvip)

20	 federal long term care insurance program (fltcip)

	 21	 professional liability insurance reimbursement program

22	 total wellness

22 Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Work/Life Services (WorkLife4You)

23 Annual Leave Program

23 Finding time to recharge (10 federal holidays)

24 Additional leave programs

25	 retirement benefits

25 Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)

26 Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

26	 total compensation statement

27	 quick reference

28 Tools and resources

Table of Contents
4 

BeneFit for Life

Your Federal Judiciary Benefits Program provides a wide range of benefits and choices so you 

can create a package to “BeneFit” your individual needs.

On day one and throughout your career, being informed about your Judiciary benefits is highly 

important, and there are useful resources available to help you learn more, compare choices 

and make decisions that truly fit your personal situation.

This booklet is designed to give you an overview of all your Federal Judiciary benefits along with 

a “BeneFit Checklist” and Quick Reference to help you keep track of important deadlines so you 

can take full advantage of your benefits right from the start...and every step along the way.
5

Enrolling in your benefits

Choosing the right insurance coverage can seem overwhelming. You may ask yourself, What’s the best medical plan for me 

and my family? How can I save money on health care expenses? What additional benefits are available to help with work/life 

balance? Good news — this Benefits Overview will cover the basics and show you how to enroll in the right coverage for the 

upcoming year.

Newly hired Judiciary employees — Keep in mind that the enrollment clock starts ticking on your first day of employment, 

and there are certain benefits that require you to act sooner than later. If you do not enroll in the Federal Employees Health 

Benefits (FEHB), Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI), Health Care Reimbursement Account (HCRA), Limited Purpose 

Health Care Reimbursement Account (LPHCRA) or Dependent Care Reimbursement Account (DCRA) within the first 60 days of 

employment, you will not have coverage. You will need to wait until the next Annual Enrollment Open Season period to enroll 

or if you experience a Qualifying Life Event (QLE), such as birth of a child or marriage.

All Judiciary employees — Understanding the ins and outs of your benefits and keeping track of how they are performing 

throughout the year is key to making the most of your benefit program.

Note: Eligibility for certain benefits depends on your appointment type. Refer to the charts on pages 9-10 or check with the 

Benefits Coordinator at your location for details.

BENEFITS OVERVIEW AND THE 

JUDICIARY BENEFITS CENTER 

JBC WEBSITE: A PERFECT MATCH

This Benefits Overview works hand in hand with the 

JBC website and the Judiciary Benefits Center (JBC) 

Website User Guide so you can access the website, 

be informed and make the best decisions for you and 

your family.
6 

o My date of employment

Note your date of employment above as a reference.

o 60 days from my date of employment

Note your date of employment plus 60 calendar days above as a reference.

If you do not enroll in certain benefits within the first 60 days of employment, you will not have coverage. As you consider 

your benefit options, review each benefit program in this guide for the three types of enrollment deadlines: First 60 days 

of employment, Any time and Automatic.

o Register on the JBC website.

The JBC website combines technology and personalized service, making your benefits information simple to find, easy to 

use and at your fingertips 24/7.

You must register as a first-time user and create your login credentials to access the JBC website. You can register for the 

JBC website using single sign-on through JENIE (the preferred and easier option), or directly through the JBC website.

Refer to the Judiciary Benefits Center (JBC) Website User Guide to help you register.

To register through JENIE, go to JENIE and select Judiciary Benefits Center. Follow the onscreen prompts to create a 

User Name and Password and authorize your device.

To register through the JBC website, go to https://judiciary.lifeatworkportal.com, select Register as first-time user

and follow the prompts to complete your registration.

o Create your PIN for the JBC phone number.

You must create a PIN to access the JBC phone number’s Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system. The phone number is 

1-877-207-3220.

You can create your PIN on the JBC website or the first time you call the JBC phone number:

• Once you register on the JBC website, you can create your IVR PIN online by selecting Profile > Login & Recovery > 

Reset My Interactive Voice Response (IVR) PIN.

• Or, the first time you call the JBC, you’ll be prompted to identify yourself and follow the instructions to create your PIN.

benefit	checklist	for	newly	hired	

employees

The enrollment deadlines for certain benefit programs are linked to your date of employment. Filling in the dates on this 

checklist will highlight your personal deadlines. It’s up to you to review the benefits listed and make enrollment decisions that 

fit your needs before time runs out.

The BeneFit Checklist below outlines the steps you need to take to enroll in your benefit elections.
7

o Eligibility for federal benefits

Eligibility for certain benefits depends upon your appointment type. Refer to the Defining benefits eligibility section in 

this guide to see which benefits you qualify for.

o Discover your benefits.

Read through this Benefits Overview to learn about the benefits available to you and your family. Once you register on 

the JBC website, additional benefits information such as Summary Plan Descriptions (SPDs), benefit program comparison 

tools, calculators and frequently asked questions (FAQs) can be found on the Library page.

Your benefit needs can change from year to year, so re-evaluating what you have and what you need is a good step 

toward protecting your health and wellness in 2020.

o Compare plans.

Take advantage of the tools available to you to make the best benefit election decisions for you and your family. Compare 

your health benefit options, your annual contributions and compare estimates of your potential out-of-pocket health care 

expenses with the Plan Comparison Tool:

• JBC website: Health & Insurance > More > Tools > Plan Comparison Tool

• OPM website: https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/healthcare/plan-information/compare-plans/

o Enroll in your benefits.

Once you’ve compared your options and decided what coverage you want, you’re ready to enroll. See the How to enroll

section below for your enrollment options.

o Designate your beneficiaries.

In the event of an employee’s death, many federal benefits result in payment of money. Who will get your survivor benefits? 

Generally, you can decide who receives the benefits by completing the appropriate Designation of Beneficiary forms.

For more information and to designate your beneficiaries, go to the Designations of Beneficiary page in the 

Mid-Career Resources section of the JNet Benefits page.

To designate your beneficiaries for your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), go to the TSP website at www.tsp.gov. 

o If you need help

If you need help with enrolling in your benefits, JBC benefits representatives can assist you. Call the JBC at 1-877-207-3220. 

Benefits representatives are available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, except federal holidays.
8 

how	to	enroll

The easiest and fastest way to enroll is through the JBC website. However, you can choose among the following four options:

Four ways to enroll

1. Enroll online.

Log in to the JBC website to enroll. You must register as a first-time user and create your login credentials to access the JBC 

website. You have two options to register:

1. Register through JENIE, which is the preferred and easier option:

• Go to JENIE and select Judiciary Benefits Center.

• Follow the onscreen prompts to create a User Name and Password.

• Provide login recovery information in case you forget your User Name or Password.

• Authorize your device. The website will store that device and browser combination as a trusted device.

2. Register through the JBC website at https://judiciary.lifeatworkportal.com:

• Select Register as first-time user and follow the online instructions. Refer to the Judiciary Benefits Center (JBC) 

Website User Guide if you need assistance in registering through the JBC website.

Once you’ve registered, from the JBC website home page, select ENROLL NOW in the Welcome to your Benefits 

Enrollment tile, and follow the online steps to complete your elections.

Once you complete your enrollment, you can download or print a confirmation statement for your records. You will 

receive an email notification that you can view your online confirmation statement, if you have a valid email address on 

file. If not, a confirmation statement will be mailed to you. You can review your elections at any time on the JBC website.

2. Enroll by phone.

Call the JBC at 1-877-207-3220. Benefits representatives are available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, except 

federal holidays.

3. Enroll by fax.

Fax your completed enrollment form to the JBC at 1-855-904-0348.

4. Enroll by mail.

Complete, sign and mail your enrollment form to:

Judiciary Benefits Center 

P.O. Box 18031 

Norfolk, VA 23501-1885
9

defining	benefits	eligibility

Eligibility for certain benefits depends on your appointment type, with a specific benefits package for law clerks and staff 

attorneys. Refer to the following charts for a general overview.

Federal Judiciary Employees Benefits Eligibility

Federal Benefits Duration of Appointment: 

No established time limit

Time-Limited Appointments

More than one year 

and one day

More than 90 days 

up to one year

Less than 90 days2

Premium Payment Plan (PPP) Yes Yes Yes No

Federal Employees Health 

Benefits Program (FEHB)

See FEHB Eligibility Matrix1 No

Federal Employees’ Group Life 

Insurance (FEGLI)

Yes Yes No2 No

Flexible Benefit Program: 

Health Care Reimbursement 

Account (HCRA)5

Yes Yes No2 No

Flexible Benefit Program: 

Limited Purpose Health Care 

Reimbursement Account 

(LPHCRA)5

Yes Yes No2 No

Flexible Benefit Program: 

Dependent Care Reimbursement Account (DCRA)5

Yes Yes No2 No

Commuter Benefit Program: 

Mass Transit Account

Yes Yes Yes No

Commuter Benefit Program: 

Parking Reimbursement 

Account

Yes Yes Yes No

Federal Employees Dental 

and Vision Insurance Program 

(FEDVIP)

Yes Yes No2 No

Federal Long Term Care 

Insurance Program (FLTCIP)

Yes Yes No3 No

Leave Yes Yes Maybe4 Maybe4

Retirement Yes Yes No2 No

Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Yes Yes No2 No

1

 Please refer to the FEHB Eligibility Matrix in this Benefits Overview or online at JBC website > Library > Benefits Eligibility Chart > FEHB Eligibility Matrix in order to determine 

FEHB eligibility and government contributions. Coverage is dependent on employee work schedule, length of appointment and hours worked.

2

 FEGLI, HCRA, DCRA, LPHCRA, FEDVIP, TSP and Retirement are available only if transferring without a break in service from a previously covered position. To learn more about how 

a break in service affects your benefit enrollment, refer to the Break-in-Service Chart found under Library on the JBC website or New Hire Resources on JNet.

3

Employees must be actively at work and eligible for FEHB to apply for Long Term Care insurance.

4

 If the duration of the appointment is less than 90 days, the employee will only earn sick leave. If the appointment is extended to 90 days or more, the employee will earn annual 

leave retroactively to the start of the appointment for each pay period in which a complete biweekly tour of duty is served. If the duration of the temporary appointment is 

90 days to one year or less, the employee will earn sick and annual leave starting the first pay period in which a complete biweekly tour of duty is served.

5 Employees are not eligible for HCRA, DCRA or LPHCRA benefits unless the employee has a Federal Judiciary appointment (or series of appointments) of at least one year and one day.

Note: This chart does not apply to law clerks or staff attorneys. See the eligibility charts for law clerks or staff attorneys on the JBC website under Library.
10 

Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Eligibility Matrix

Type of 

Appointment

Work Schedule Appointment 

NTE (or series of 

appointments)

Standard Work 

Hours per Week

Eligible for 

FEHB

Government 

Contribution

Permanent 

(includes Career 

and Term 

Employees)

Full Time N/A 40 4 Full Government Share

N/A 32.5 or more 4 Full Government Share

Part Time N/A Less than 32.5 4 Prorated

Intermittent1 N/A N/A 42 Full Government Share

Temporary Full Time 90 days or more 40 4 Full Government Share

Less than 90 days 40 8 N/A

Part Time 90 days or more 32.5 or more 4 Full Government Share

90 days or more but 

one year or less

Less than 32.5 8 N/A

More than one year Less than 32.5 4 Prorated

Cumulative time total 

more than one year

Less than 32.5 4 None3

Less than 90 days N/A 8 N/A

Intermittent 90 days or more N/A 42 Full Government Share

Less than 90 days N/A 8 N/A

4 = Eligible for Benefit 8 = Not Eligible for Benefit

1

FEHB eligibility for permanent, intermittent positions only applies to Land Commissioners.

2 Court must certify employee is expected to work 130 hours or more per month in order to be eligible for FEHB and the government premium contribution. If actual hours are 

reduced after certification, no proration rules will apply. Court will provide certification of hours upon completion of new hire paperwork.

3

Part-time, temporary employees who have accumulated more than a year in service are eligible to enroll in the FEHB program but must pay the full premium.

QUALIFYING LIFE EVENTS QLEs

QLEs are not the same for all benefit programs, so be sure to check with the Benefits Coordinator at your location for details.

Your benefit needs can change based on any number of factors. That’s why each year you can make changes to help ensure 

your benefit program fits the needs of you and your family. A QLE is an event that occurs in the life of an employee that 

merits the ability to change his/her participation election outside of an Open Season. QLEs include but are not limited to a 

marriage, a divorce, a new child or a change in employment status.

Note: You must make the change within 60 days of the event.
11

Federal Judiciary Benefits Program

federal	employees	health	benefits	

(fehb)	program

You can change your health insurance coverage during Open Season or if you experience a QLE.

The amount you pay for health benefits is withheld from your biweekly or monthly paycheck.

60 DAYS > ENROLL WITHIN FIRST 60 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB)

What it provides Comprehensive medical benefits including hospitalization, surgery, doctor’s office visits, preventive 

care and prescription drugs

Who you can cover • Self Only

• Self Plus One

• Self & Family

Health plan choices • Fee-For-Service (FFS)

• Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)

• High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account (HSA) 

• Consumer-Driven Health Plan (CDHP)

Provider choices Based on the state in which you live

Your cost You pay approximately 30 percent of the total premium based on the plan you choose 

(more if you are employed on a part-time basis).

Find out more • JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

• OPM website: www.opm.gov

Plan Comparison Tool • JBC website: Your Benefits > More > Tools > Plan Comparison Tool

• OPM website: https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/healthcare/plan-information/

compare-plans/

Deadline Enroll within the first 60 days of employment. 

Effective date Effective date is the first day of the following pay period after the election is received by the JBC or 

the first day in a pay and duty status.
12 

Federal	Employees’	Group	Life	

Insurance	(FEGLI)

There are several life insurance options available to you to provide peace of mind and financial protection for you and your family.

You are automatically covered by the FEGLI Basic Life Insurance on your first day of employment. You can waive this coverage 

at any time. After your initial enrollment period, you may only increase coverage during a QLE, upon approval after having a 

medical examination or, in rare instances, during a FEGLI Open Season.

60 DAYS > ENROLL WITHIN FIRST 60 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI)

What it provides Term life insurance at group rates

Who you can cover Yourself, your spouse and your eligible dependent children

Basic life insurance • FEGLI Basic Life Insurance coverage is provided automatically.

• Amount is your salary rounded to the next thousand, plus two thousand

• Extra benefit for employees under age 45 at no additional cost

Optional life 

insurance

Three optional life insurance plans are offered:

• FEGLI Option A Standard Life Insurance: $10,000

• FEGLI Option B Additional Life Insurance: Amount is equal to one, two, three, four or five times your 

annual rate of basic pay (after rounding up to the next even $1,000).

• FEGLI Option C Family Life Insurance

- Your spouse: Amount is 5X multiples of $5,000 up to a maximum of $25,000.

- Your children: Amount is 5X multiples of $2,500 up to a maximum of $12,500.

Your cost • Basic Life Insurance: The Federal Judiciary pays one-third the cost and you pay two-thirds the cost.

• Optional Life Insurance: You pay the full cost.

Key points • You must maintain Basic Life Insurance to carry Optional Life Insurance.

• Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage is an automatic part of FEGLI Basic Life 

Insurance and FEGLI Option A Standard Insurance.

Find out more • JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

• OPM website: www.opm.gov

FEGLI Calculator • JBC website: Your Benefits > More > Tools > Calculate Life Insurance Needs

• OPM website: https://www.opm.gov/retirement-services/calculators/fegli-calculator/

Effective date Basic insurance is effective on the first day you are in a pay and duty status in an eligible position. 

Option A, Option B and Option C insurance coverage is effective on the first day you are in a pay 

and duty status on or after the day the JBC receives your election.
13

flexible	benefit	program	

administered	by	benefitwallet®

You can reduce the amount you pay in taxes and increase 

your spendable income by taking advantage of the Flexible 

Benefit Program. The program consists of four tax-favored plans: 

Premium Payment Plan (PPP), Health Care Reimbursement 

Account (HCRA), Limited Purpose Health Care Reimbursement 

Account (LPHCRA) and Dependent Care Reimbursement 

Account (DCRA). Participation in any or all plans is voluntary. 

Each plan allows you to set aside a portion of your pay on 

a pre-tax basis. This reduces the amount on which federal 

income taxes, Social Security taxes and, in most cases, state 

and local income taxes are based. As a result, you pay less 

in taxes and increase your spendable income.

Premium Payment Plan (PPP)

AUTOMATIC > COVERAGE IS AUTOMATIC UPON EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Premium Payment Plan (PPP)

What it provides Tax savings on the amount you pay for your health insurance

How it works • The PPP is a pre-tax option. The cost of premiums is deducted from your gross pay before taxes are 

withheld.

• Pre-tax option is automatic, unless waived in writing.

Your savings You do not pay federal, Social Security (FICA) and, in most cases, state or local income taxes on the 

amount of your premiums.

Find out more • JBC website: Library > Enrollment Guides > Flexible Benefit Program SPD

• JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

Effective date You are automatically enrolled in the PPP when you enroll in FEHB unless you elect to have your 

health insurance premiums deducted on an after-tax basis.
14 

Health Care Reimbursement Account (HCRA)

60 DAYS > ENROLL WITHIN FIRST 60 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Health Care Reimbursement Account (HCRA)

What it provides Tax savings on eligible health care expenses that are not paid through the health, dental and/or 

vision plan

How it works • You set aside pre-tax dollars from your paycheck to pay for out-of-pocket health care expenses.

• Pay for out-of-pocket health care expenses at the time of purchase with your BenefitWallet debit 

card. Remember to keep all your receipts.

• If you prefer, you can submit claims as services are incurred via online, fax or mail instead of using 

your debit card. 

• Reimbursements are made via electronic funds transfer to the same account as your pay.

Your cost • You calculate how much to contribute to the HCRA. This amount is divided by the number of pay 

periods for the year.

• This pay-period amount is withheld on a pre-tax basis.

• You may elect to contribute up to $2,750 in 2020.

Your savings You do not pay federal, Social Security (FICA) and, in most cases, state or local income taxes on your 

contributions to the account.

Key points • You have access to the total amount you elected from the start.

• You have until March 15 of the following plan year to incur expenses that can be applied to the 

prior plan year HCRA balance. 

• You must use all the money in your account each year or the balance will be forfeited.

Find out more For a list of eligible health care expenses, go to:

• JBC website: Library > Flexible Benefit Program >

- Qualified Expenses for Your Health Care Reimbursement Account (for an overview)

- Flexible Spending Eligible Expense Guide (for a full list)

- FSA Event Based Eligible Expense Guide

• JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

Effective date Effective date is the first day of the following pay period after the election is received by the JBC 

or the first day in a pay and duty status.
15

Limited Purpose Health Care Reimbursement Account (LPHCRA)

60 DAYS > ENROLL WITHIN FIRST 60 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Limited Purpose Health Care Reimbursement Account (LPHCRA) 

What it provides • Tax savings on eligible dental and vision care expenses that are not paid through the health, dental 

and/or vision plan 

• Only available to employees who enroll in an HDHP

How it works • You set aside pre-tax dollars from your paycheck to pay for out-of-pocket dental and vision care 

expenses.

• Pay for out-of-pocket dental and vision expenses at the time of purchase with your BenefitWallet 

debit card. Remember to keep all your receipts.

• If you prefer, you can submit claims as services are incurred via online, fax or mail instead of using 

your debit card.

• Reimbursements are made via electronic funds transfer to the same account as your pay.

Your cost • You calculate how much to contribute to the LPHCRA. This amount is divided by the number of 

pay periods for the year.

• This pay-period amount is withheld on a pre-tax basis.

• You may elect to contribute up to $2,750 in 2020.

Your savings You do not pay federal, Social Security (FICA) and, in most cases, state or local income taxes on your 

contributions to the account.

Key points • You have access to the total amount you elected from the start.

• You have until March 15 of the following plan year to incur expenses that can be applied to the 

prior plan year LPHCRA balance. 

• You must use all the money in your account each year or the balance will be forfeited.

Find out more For a list of eligible dental and vision care expenses, go to:

• JBC website: Library > Flexible Benefit Program >

- Qualified Expenses for Your Limited Purpose Health Care Reimbursement Account

- Flexible Spending Eligible Expense Guide (for a full list)

- FSA Event Based Eligible Expense Guide

• JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

Effective date Effective date is the first day of the following pay period after the election is received by the JBC or 

the first day in a pay and duty status.
16 

Dependent Care Reimbursement Account (DCRA)

60 DAYS > ENROLL WITHIN FIRST 60 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Dependent Care Reimbursement Account (DCRA)

What it provides • Tax savings on qualified expenses for eligible dependents (children’s coverage generally ends on 

the 13th birthday)

• Your funds can be used for services such as: 

- Day care

- Before- or after-school care (other than tuition)

- Licensed day care centers

- Placement fees for a dependent care provider, such as an au pair 

- Child care at a day camp, nursery school or by a private sitter 

- Summer or holiday day camps and more

How it works • You set aside pre-tax dollars from your paycheck to pay for eligible out-of-pocket dependent 

care expenses.

• Submit claims as services are incurred via online, fax or mail. 

• Reimbursements are made via electronic funds transfer to the same account as your pay.

Your cost • You calculate how much to contribute to the DCRA. This amount is divided by the number of pay 

periods for the year.

• This pay-period amount is withheld on a pre-tax basis.

• You may elect to contribute up to $5,000 per year per household ($2,500 if you are married and 

file separately).

Your savings You do not pay federal, Social Security (FICA) and, in most cases, state or local income taxes on your 

contributions to the account.

Key points • You can only be reimbursed up to the amount available in your account when you file your claim. 

Claims for expenses exceeding that amount are reimbursed as funds accumulate.

• You have until April 30 of the next year to submit claims for the prior plan year.

• You must use all the money in your account each year or the balance will be forfeited.

Find out more For a list of eligible dependent care expenses, go to:

• JBC website: Library > Flexible Benefit Program > 

- Qualified Expenses for Your Dependent Care Reimbursement Account: Highlights 

(for an overview)

- Flexible Spending Eligible Expense Guide (for a full list)

- FSA Event Based Eligible Expense Guide

• JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

Effective date Effective date is the first day of the following pay period after the election is received by the JBC or 

the first day in a pay and duty status.

FSA CALCULATOR

Find out how much you can save on taxes when you contribute to an FSA by using the BenefitWallet FSA Tax Savings 

Calculator. Simply go to the JBC website and select the Flexible Benefits tile. Then, select the Go button on the BenefitWallet 

graphic, which will take you to the BenefitWallet home page. You will find the calculator in Resources.
17

commuter	benefit	program

The Commuter Benefit Program lets you save money on commuting expenses by contributing pre-tax dollars into an account. 

We offer a Parking Reimbursement Account and a Mass Transit Account. You can contribute to either or both accounts on a 

monthly or as-needed basis, based on your lifestyle needs.

Mass Transit Account

ANY TIME > ENROLL AT ANY TIME AFTER EMPLOYMENT BEGINS.

Program Name Mass Transit Account 

What it provides Tax savings on the amount you pay for eligible expenses related to:

• Mass transit or vanpooling expenses that you incur commuting to and from work

• The cost of your mass transit fares (bus, train or vanpooling)

How it works • Estimate how much you spend each month on mass transit expenses.

• Enroll in the program by electing the Mass Transit Account.

• Set your pre-tax payroll deductions; you can contribute up to $270 per month in 2020 to pay 

for eligible expenses.

• Receive a welcome package and BenefitWallet debit card in the mail prior to your effective date.

• Your pre-tax paycheck contributions are deposited automatically to your BenefitWallet debit card.

• Use the BenefitWallet debit card to buy monthly transit passes. No claim forms or receipts are 

needed. If the BenefitWallet debit card is not accepted at your vanpool, you may file claims online 

to be reimbursed for qualified expenses. 

Your savings • You do not pay federal, Social Security (FICA) and, in most cases, state or local income tax on the 

amount you elect.

• The monthly amount you elect carries over month to month, year to year until you change it.

• Any balance in your account rolls over month to month, year to year.

Key point You reduce your taxable income and increase your spendable income when you contribute to 

the account. 

Find out more • JBC website: Library >

- Commuter Benefit Program Summary Plan Description (SPD) Guide

- Commuter Benefit Program

- Commuter Benefit Program Frequently Asked Questions

• JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

Effective date Effective date is the first day of the following pay period after the election is received by the JBC or 

the first day in a pay and duty status.
18 

BENEFITWALLET DEBIT CARD

If you enroll in the HCRA, LPHCRA or Commuter Benefit Program, 

a BenefitWallet debit card will be mailed to your home. You can use 

your debit card to pay for out-of-pocket qualified expenses at the 

time of purchase. Using the card is optional.

Parking Reimbursement Account 

Program Name Parking Reimbursement Account 

What it provides Tax savings on the amount you pay for eligible expenses related to:

• Parking at or near your place of employment or where you board mass transit to commute 

to work

How it works • Estimate how much you spend each month on mass transit expenses.

• Enroll in the program by electing the Parking Reimbursement Account.

• Set your pre-tax payroll deductions; you can contribute up to $270 per month in 2020 to pay 

for eligible expenses.

• Receive a welcome package and BenefitWallet debit card in the mail prior to your effective date.

• Your pre-tax paycheck contributions are deposited automatically to your BenefitWallet debit card.

• Use the BenefitWallet debit card to pay for parking expenses. No claim forms or receipts are 

needed. If the BenefitWallet debit card is not accepted at your parking provider, you may file claims 

online to be reimbursed for qualified expenses.

Your savings • You do not pay federal, Social Security (FICA) and, in most cases, state or local income tax on the 

amount you elect.

• The monthly amount you elect carries over month to month, year to year until you change it.

• Any balance in your account rolls over month to month, year to year.

Key point You reduce your taxable income and increase your spendable income when you contribute to 

the account.

Find out more • JBC website: Library >

- Commuter Benefit Program Summary Plan Description (SPD) Guide

- Commuter Benefit Program 

- Commuter Benefit Program Frequently Asked Questions

• JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

Effective date Effective date is the first day of the following pay period after the election is received by the JBC or 

the first day in a pay and duty status.

TRANSPORTATION SUBSIDY PROGRAM

Many courts offer a Transportation Subsidy Program that provides — 

as a tax-free fringe benefit — parking and/or public transportation 

subsidies. The total tax-free benefit you can receive (Transportation 

Subsidy Program plus Commuter Benefit Program) is limited to the 

IRS maximums for mass transit and parking. Check with the Benefits 

Coordinator at your location for more information and ask if you are 

eligible for this benefit.
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federal	employees	dental	and	

vision	insurance	program	(fedvip)

You can enroll in dental insurance or vision insurance, or both. Who you cover under dental or vision does not have to match 

who you cover under health insurance.

60 DAYS > ENROLL WITHIN FIRST 60 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP)

What dental 

insurance provides

Coverage for most types of dental work, including cleaning, x-rays, crowns and, in some cases, 

orthodontic services for dependents 

What vision insurance 

provides

Coverage for eye exams, glasses and contact lenses

Who you can cover • Self Only

• Self Plus One

• Self & Family

Dental plan choices Four national plans and three regional plans

Vision plan choices Three national plans

Provider choices Based on the state in which you live

Your cost You pay 100 percent of the premium based on the plan you choose.

Find out more • JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

• BENEFEDS website: www.BENEFEDS.com

• OPM website: www.opm.gov

How to enroll • Once you complete your enrollment on the JBC website, go to Next Steps at the bottom of the 

Completed page then select BENEFEDS to elect dental and vision coverage. 

• Or, go to the BENEFEDS website: www.BENEFEDS.com.
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federal	long	term	care	insurance	

program	(fltcip)

To safeguard you and your family from the added expenses that come with a chronic medical condition or disease, especially 

as you age, you may want to consider purchasing long term care insurance. Long term care expenses, such as a nursing home, 

assisted living facility or in-home nursing care, are not covered by traditional health insurance plans such as the FEHB. Long 

term care provides the assistance you need if you can no longer perform everyday tasks. The FLTCIP is available to protect you 

against the high cost of long term care.

60 DAYS > ENROLL WITHIN FIRST 60 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP)

What it provides • Four pre-packaged plans plus the ability to customize a plan

• Administered by Long Term Care Partners, a subsidiary of John Hancock

Your cost • You pay the entire premium for long term care insurance.

• Premiums are based on your age at time of application.

Key points • You, your spouse, adult children, parents, parents-in-law and stepparents can apply; medical 

underwriting is required.

• Certain medical conditions, or combinations of conditions, will prevent some people from being 

approved for coverage.

Find out more • JBC website: Additional Benefits

• Net Benefits page, New Hire Resources

• FLTCIP website: www.ltcfeds.com

• Contact the FLTCIP at 1-800-LTC-FEDS (1-800-582-3337)

Premium Calculator FLTCIP website: www.ltcfeds.com

How to enroll Apply online or download an application at the FLTCIP website.

When to enroll You can enroll at any time but you receive abbreviated medical underwriting if you enroll within the 

first 60 days of employment.
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professional	liability	insurance	

reimbursement	program

The Federal Judiciary offers another reimbursement program, for those eligible, that provides significant savings when 

professional liability insurance is purchased.

ANY TIME > ENROLL AT ANY TIME AFTER EMPLOYMENT BEGINS.

Program Name Professional Liability Insurance Reimbursement Program

What it provides Reimbursement for one-half the cost of your annual professional liability insurance premium

Who is eligible • Judges

• Probation and pretrial services officers and officer assistants

• Court unit executives

• Other designated managers and supervisors

Find out more JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

Participation Check with your court to find out if you are eligible and how to submit reimbursement requests.
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Total wellness

employee	assistance	program	(eap)	

and	work/life	services	(worklife4you)

To help you and your family with work/life balance, family issues, substance abuse and other daily challenges, the Federal 

Judiciary provides you and your family — free of charge — access to confidential, caring professionals 24 hours a day, seven 

days a week through the EAP and Work/Life Services (WorkLife4You) program.

AUTOMATIC > COVERAGE IS AUTOMATIC UPON EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Work/Life Services (WorkLife4You)

What it provides • Confidential, free, reliable resource to help 

you and your family deal with life's challenges

• Free face-to-face, short-term counseling by a 

licensed or credentialed professional for you 

or your family member

• Financial and legal services — free initial 

consultation and discounted services 

thereafter

• Free identity theft assistance

• Supervisor and Risk Management 

Consultation

• Critical Incident Response

• Child care and parenting services: 24/7 

telephonic and online support for adoption, 

child care, non-traditional families and more

• Adult care and the aging: assistance for 

caregivers’ issues and concerns; free in-home 

assessments and facility reviews

• Education resources and qualified referrals 

for many issues, e.g., family, health, wellness, 

education and life maintenance

• Free Worklife Kits: Be-Well Kit, Adult Care Kit, 

Prenatal Care Kit, Child Safety Kit, College Kit

• Free Relocation Packages

Key points Completely confidential Simplifies your life

Your cost Access for both EAP and WorkLife4You are automatic and free of charge to you.

Find out more • JBC website: Additional Benefits

• JNet Benefits page, Invest in You: Total Well Being

• Contact EAP and WorkLife4You at 1-800-222-0364.

How to access • JBC website: Additional Benefits

• Website: www.foh4you.com

• JBC website: Additional Benefits

• Website: www.worklife4you.com

Registration Code: FEDJUD
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annual	leave	program

AUTOMATIC > COVERAGE IS AUTOMATIC UPON EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Annual Leave Program

What it provides Paid time off that you accrue for vacations, rest and relaxation, personal business or emergencies

How it works You accrue a set number of hours each pay period based on your years of service.

Key point Annual leave may be accumulated and carried over to the next leave year up to a maximum of 

240 hours.

Find out more • Annual leave accrual charts are located on the JNet Human Resources Management page, 

Leave Administration.

• Employee Resources can be found on the JNET, Human Resources Management page under the 

Featured section.

Finding time to recharge

We can all use a break from the daily demands of 

work to spend time devoted to personal interests. 

Through federal holidays and the annual leave 

program, Federal Judiciary employees can take 

time off to refresh and recharge.

10 federal holidays

• New Year’s Day

• Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday

• Washington’s Birthday

• Memorial Day

• Independence Day

• Labor Day

• Columbus Day

• Veterans Day

• Thanksgiving Day

• Christmas Day
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additional	leave	programs

The Federal Judiciary offers additional leave programs for you and your family to manage changing life circumstances. In addition 

to the programs in the chart below, you can find details on the JNet Human Resources page, Employee Resources for 

Bone Marrow or Organ Donor Leave, Court Leave, Emergency Leave Transfer Program, Funeral for Military or Law Enforcement, 

Home Leave and Military Leave.

AUTOMATIC > COVERAGE IS AUTOMATIC UPON EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name What It Provides Find Out More

Family and Medical 

Leave Act (FMLA)

Up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave 

per year for certain family or medical reasons:

• Birth of a son or daughter

• Placement of a child for adoption or 

foster care

• Caring for a family member with a serious 

health condition

• If you suffer a serious health condition

Paid leave may be substituted, as applicable.

Employee Resources can be found on the JNET, 

Human Resources Management page under 

the Featured section.

Sick Leave Time off that you accrue for when you are:

• Sick

• Caring for a sick family member

• Arranging and/or attending a funeral

• Adopting a child

Employee Resources can be found on the JNET, 

Human Resources Management page under 

the Featured section.

Leave Transfer 

Program

Ability to donate your unused annual leave 

to an employee with an approved personal 

or family medical emergency or become the 

recipient of such donated leave when you 

experience such a circumstance

Employee Resources can be found on the JNET, 

Human Resources Management page under 

the Featured section.

Disability Retirement If you are eligible for retirement under the 

Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or 

Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) 

and you experience a disabling condition, you 

can apply for disability retirement.

• A claim for disability retirement must be filed 

with OPM before separation or within one 

year after separation.

• If approved, you receive a monthly annuity.

• JNet Benefits page, Nearing Retirement 

Resources

• OPM website: www.opm.gov/retire
25

retirement	benefits

Whether your retirement is right around the corner or years down the road, retirement benefits and a savings plan are available 

to help you build a solid financial future.

If you are covered under the CSRS or the CSRS Offset, please refer to the information on the JNet Benefits pages and the OPM 

website.

Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)

AUTOMATIC > COVERAGE IS AUTOMATIC UPON EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)

What it is A retirement plan with three components — FERS Basic Benefit, Social Security and Thrift Savings 

Plan (TSP)

Coverage Federal civilian employees first hired after December 31, 1983, are automatically covered under FERS 

(see eligibility charts on pages 9-10).

What it provides Upon retirement:

• FERS Basic Benefit — a monthly annuity based on years of service and the high-three average salary

• Social Security — a monthly benefit beginning at age 62 (or later if you choose)

• TSP — a savings plan that helps you to save toward your retirement, then offers various income 

withdrawal options from your account such as single payment, monthly payments, annuity 

purchase or a combination of options once you’re ready to retire. More information is outlined in 

the next section of this guide, Thrift Savings Plan.

Your cost You contribute a percentage of your salary for retirement benefits, which is split three ways:

1. FERS Basic Benefit

- Entrance on Duty (EOD) before 2013: FERS 0.8% (LEOs 1.3%)

- EOD after 2012: FERS-RAE 3.1% (LEOs 3.6%)

- EOD after 2014: FERS-FRAE 4.4% (LEOs 4.9%)

2. Social Security: current national percentage

3. TSP: You decide. Details on page 26. 

Key point To receive a full FERS Basic Benefit, you need to meet specific age and service requirements.

FERS Annuity Formula OPM website: www.opm.gov/retire

Find out more • OPM website: www.opm.gov/retire

• JNet: New Hire Resources
26 

Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

To help you meet your financial goals for retirement, saving through the TSP can play an important role. No matter your age 

or the stage in your career, it is important for you to plan and save for your retirement now.

AUTOMATIC > ENROLLMENT IS AUTOMATIC UPON EMPLOYMENT.

Program Name Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

What it is A retirement savings and investment plan — similar to a 401(k) — to which you and your agency contribute

What it provides • You can make pre-tax contributions or post-tax contributions.

• Tax-deferred investment earnings

• A diversified choice of investment options

• Federal Judiciary contributions of 1 percent of basic annual pay, whether or not you elect to 

contribute

• Matching contributions — dollar for dollar on the first 3 percent of pay you contribute and 

50 cents per dollar on the next 2 percent

Your cost You can elect to contribute a different percentage or a specific dollar amount up to the IRS 

maximum deferral limit, or waive contributions altogether. The contribution limit is $19,500 in 2020.

Key points • At age 50 or older, you can elect to make catch-up contributions in addition to your regular 

contributions.

• The catch-up contribution limit is $6,500 in 2020.

• You can change your contribution amounts and fund allocations at any time.

TSP Calculators http://www.tsp.gov/planningtools/shtml 

Find out more • JNet Benefits page, New Hire Resources

• TSP website: www.tsp.gov

Effective date • As a new hire, you will be automatically enrolled at a contribution rate of 3 percent. 

• Effective date is the first day of the following pay period after the election is received by the 

JBC or the first day in a pay and duty status.

HOW MUCH WILL YOU NEED 

TO RETIRE?

Avoid the guesswork. The Federal Ballpark 

E$timate® helps you quickly identify 

approximately how much you need to save 

to fund a comfortable retirement based on 

your desired retirement lifestyle: https://www.

opm.gov/retirement-services/calculators/

federal-ball-park-estimator/.

TOTAL COMPENSATION STATEMENT

Your total compensation package at the Federal Judiciary goes 

beyond your paycheck. It includes the value of your health and 

insurance plans, savings plans, retirement savings, paid time off 

and a variety of other benefits. The Federal Judiciary takes pride 

in providing for you and your family’s needs, at work and beyond.

In the first quarter of each year, a total compensation statement 

will be mailed to your home. The statement showcases the total 

value of your pay, benefits and assets to help you plan for today 

and the future.
27

quick	reference

Use the chart below to track the course of your Federal Judiciary benefits* throughout the year and your career. Remember 

that benefit programs are flexible and can be adjusted to fit your needs. By keeping your benefits top-of-mind during the year, 

you will be better prepared to make informed decisions when the time comes to make changes.

Annual Longer View Automatic

• Federal Employees Health Benefits 

(FEHB)

• Health Care Reimbursement Account 

(HCRA)

• Limited Purpose Health Care 

Reimbursement Account (LPHCRA)

• Dependent Care Reimbursement 

Account (DCRA)

• Federal Employees Dental and Vision 

Insurance Program (FEDVIP)

• Federal Employees’ Group Life 

Insurance (FEGLI) 

• Federal Long Term Care Insurance 

Program (FLTCIP)

• Professional Liability Insurance 

Reimbursement Program

• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

• Premium Payment Plan (PPP)

• FEGLI Basic Life Insurance

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Work/Life Services (WorkLife4You)

• Leave and related programs

• Federal Employees Retirement System 

(FERS)

• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

q Check your earnings statement at the 

beginning of the year to make sure the 

deductions from your paycheck match 

your benefit elections.

q Evaluate your benefits throughout the 

year and track issues that may come up 

related to cost or service. This will help 

you make informed decisions about 

your benefits.

q Track your out-of-pocket expenses. 

Having a clear picture of your recurring 

costs will allow you to adjust your health, 

dental and/or vision coverage, as well as 

any FSAs.

q Use the Plan Comparison Tool to help 

with your enrollment decisions.

q Outside the once-a-year Open Season 

period, be sure to make changes to your 

benefits from 31 days before a QLE and 

up to 60 days after.

q If you are a FERS employee, contribute 

at least 5 percent to take full advantage 

of the matching contributions from 

the Federal Judiciary. If you are a CSRS 

employee, contribute to the TSP to 

enhance your retirement income.

q Use the calculators on the TSP website 

to plan and manage your account.

q Revisit your life insurance needs if you 

are getting married, having a child, 

buying a home, funding college for your 

children, supporting aging parents or 

getting close to retirement.

q Consider long term care insurance to 

help pay for long term care expenses. 

Long term care can span years and be 

expensive depending on the type of 

care needed and the location where 

that care is received.

q Check your life insurance, retirement, 

TSP and unpaid compensation 

beneficiaries periodically and update 

as needed.

q Save on taxes by paying your health, 

dental and/or vision insurance with the 

pre-tax option of the PPP.

q Determine how much you need to 

save to fund a comfortable retirement 

with the Federal Ballpark E$timate on 

the OPM website.

q Take advantage of the many resources 

provided 24/7 through EAP and 

WorkLife4You to help you navigate 

financial, legal, family and personal 

matters.

q Use the Leave Calculator on the JNet 

Human Resources page to track how 

much annual leave and sick leave you 

carry over, earn and use each year.

Any time

• Commuter Benefit Program: 

Mass Transit Account

• Commuter Benefit Program: 

Parking Reimbursement Account

q Help pay your way to and from work 

with the tax savings you receive from 

this program.

*Eligibility for certain benefits depends on appointment type. Refer to the charts on pages 9-10 or check with the Benefits Coordinator at your location for details.
USCG00

Tools and resources

Judiciary Benefits Center (JBC)

The JBC is your confidential, one-stop resource for information and tools to help you better manage your benefits and to 

make elections and changes for many of your benefit programs.

If you have questions, contact us.

Web: Access the JBC via JENIE or directly at https://judiciary.lifeatworkportal.com.

Phone: 1-877-207-3220 

Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, except federal holidays

Fax: 1-855-904-0348

Mail: Judiciary Benefits Center

P.O. Box 18031 

Norfolk, VA 23501-1885

JNet

JNet is the federal courts' intranet where you will find valuable benefits resources and information. From the JNet home page, 

select Human Resources, Benefits. On the Benefits home page, you will find the following resources:

New Hire Resources provides information on eligibility, enrollment, cost and coverage specifically geared toward you. 

You can also find tools such as plan comparisons and calculators to ensure you get the most out of your benefit options. 

Employees’ Corner has a collection of helpful videos, Benefit for Life Hour (B4LH) webinars, glossary and acronym index, 

and FAQs.

Retirement Lifeline is an easy-to-use resource to help you plan for your retirement. Designed specifically for Federal Judiciary 

employees, it provides the information you need to get informed and organized around financial planning for retirement. 

Retirement Lifeline is available on the JNet Retirement Benefits page.

Invest in You: Total Well-Being provides resources for your financial, physical and emotional well-being as well as living well/

life balance resources.

EAP and Worklife4You offer specially selected tools and resources to help you improve your total well-being. You can access 

EAP and WorkLife4You 24 hours a day, 7 days a week online at www.worklife4you.com (use registration code FEDJUD when 

prompted) or by phone at 1-800-222-0364.

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