What is the Basic Insurance Amount and Why It Matters

Definition & Meaning

The term "basic insurance amount" refers to a specific insurance coverage amount for employees under the Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) program. It is defined as the greater of:

  • The employee's annual basic pay, rounded up to the nearest thousand dollars, plus an additional $2,000.
  • A minimum amount of $10,000.

For former employees who are still entitled to insurance coverage, the basic insurance amount is the amount that was applicable at the time their coverage ended.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A federal employee with an annual salary of $52,000 would have a basic insurance amount calculated as follows:

  • Rounded salary: $53,000
  • Basic insurance amount: $53,000 + $2,000 = $55,000

Example 2: A former employee whose coverage ended with a basic insurance amount of $25,000 would retain that amount for their insurance benefits.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Basic Insurance Amount The minimum insurance coverage amount for federal employees. Specific to federal employees under FEGLI.
Optional Insurance Amount Additional insurance coverage that federal employees can elect to purchase. Optional coverage beyond the basic insurance amount.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a federal employee or a former employee, it is important to understand your basic insurance amount. You should:

  • Review your annual pay to determine your coverage amount.
  • Consult the US Legal Forms website for templates to manage your insurance selections.
  • Consider seeking professional legal assistance if you have questions about your specific situation.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Minimum Coverage $10,000
Calculation Basis Annual basic pay, rounded to the next higher $1,000
Applicable Law 5 USCS §§ 8701 et seq.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is the greater of the employee's annual salary rounded up to the nearest thousand plus $2,000, or $10,000.