Benefits enrollment, Affordable Care Act info Published Nov. 1, 2013 ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- There are two important events underway affecting federal employees regarding health benefits coverage and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The 2013 Federal Benefits Open Season will run Nov. 11 through Dec. 9. That includes enrollment in the Federal Employees Health Benefits, Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance and Federal Flexible Spending Account programs. Open season information may be found on the myPers benefits and entitlements website at https://gum-crm.csd.disa.mil. Common access cards are required. The Office of Personnel Management's guides to federal benefits are available at www.opm.gov/insure/health/planinfo/guides/index.asp. "Open season is a good time for employees who don't have health coverage to consider their options in light of the Affordable Care Act requirement to maintain minimum health care coverage for themselves and all dependents claimed on their federal tax return or to qualify for an exemption," said David McAlpin, 78th Air Base Wing civilian personnel officer. "Those who don't meet the requirement, in accordance with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, will be charged a penalty beginning with their 2014 federal tax return." During open season employees can enroll, change health plans or options, cancel enrollment, change to self-only or self and family and waive or begin participation in Premium Conversion. Elections made during the 2013 season will be effective Jan. 12, and will be reflected on leave and earning statements received on Jan. 31. Enrollments or changes will be made via the Employee Benefits Information System, at https://www.my.af.mil and https://w20.afpc.randolph.af.mil/AFPCSecurenet20, or the Benefits and Entitlements Service Team automated phone system at 1-800-525-0102.