Annuity Terms and Definitions

Option C
Coverage, to insure your spouse and eligible child(ren), that you can elect in addition to Basic insurance. You can elect up to 5 multiples of the coverage amounts (each multiple equals $5,000 for a spouse and $2,500 for an eligible child). Also called family optional insurance.

COLA, CSRS
CSRS cost of living adjustments (COLA's) provide an increase that is equal to the rate of inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). CSRS cost-of-living-adjustments are provided to retirees at all ages

Option A
$10,000 in coverage that you can elect in addition to Basic insurance. Also called standard optional insurance.

OFEGLI
The Office of Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance, which makes payments to beneficiaries under the policy. OFEGLI is not a Federal agency. It is staffed by employees of the contracted life insurance carrier.

Annuity Starting Date
For most types of annuities, the first day of the month following either the date after the day you separate from service or the date after your last day in pay, whichever is earlier. If you were in pay status for three days or less in the month of your retirement, the annuity starting date is the date after either the day you separate from service or your last day in pay and in which you meet age and service requirements, whichever is earlier

Age Multiplication Factor
A factor used to determine the extra amount of Basic insurance payable at the time of your death, if you die before age 45 (also referred to as the "extra benefit").

Accidental Death
Bodily injuries sustained solely through violent, external and accidental means, and as a direct result of the bodily injuries, independently of all other causes, and within 90 days afterwards, you lose your life.

Accidental Dismemberment
Bodily injuries sustained solely through violent, external and accidental means, and as a direct result of the bodily injuries, independently of all other causes, and within 90 days afterwards, you lose your limb or eyesight.

Annuity, Postponed
Delaying your FERS annuity benefit to sometime in the future after meeting your Minimum Retirement Age but before age 62.

Living Benefits
Basic insurance benefits (full or partial) paid to you while you are still living, rather than paid to a beneficiary when you die. You must be terminally ill, with a life expectancy of 9 months or less, to qualify for a living benefit.