Covering the Bases: Federal employees have time to change plans

Q: I am the widow of a federal retiree, and since my husband wisely chose to take an annuity that still provides a retirement income for me from the federal government, I have my supplemental health insurance through them, too.

I just read that the date to make changes for my coverage in 2009 has been extended to Jan. 31, 2009. I didn't change anything in my coverage for 2009 because I'm happy with my plan. Do I need to do anything else to make sure I am covered next year?

A: You are correct that Federal Employees Health Benefit Plan enrollees now have until Jan. 31, 2009, to make a...