Key Takeaways

• LiteBlue and KeepingPosted serve distinct but complementary roles in keeping USPS employees and retirees informed and connected to their benefits, services, and career tools.

• Understanding how to use both platforms in 2025 can help you manage your health benefits, retirement options, and employment resources with fewer complications.

The Purpose of LiteBlue and Who Should Use It

LiteBlue is the official self-service HR portal for current United States Postal Service (USPS) employees. It provides access to everything from pay statements and benefits to retirement planning tools. If you are actively employed by USPS in 2025, LiteBlue is your go-to platform.

What You Can Do on LiteBlue

• View your earnings statements and tax documents

• Change your home address or emergency contact information

• Enroll in, cancel, or modify your Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) during Open Season

• Check annual leave balances and track time off

• Access Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) information and FERS retirement planning tools

• Use PostalEASE to make payroll adjustments and benefits elections

To log in, you’ll need your USPS employee ID and password. Two-factor authentication is now required for added security in 2025.

The Purpose of KeepingPosted and Who Should Use It

KeepingPosted is designed specifically for USPS retirees and separated employees. It serves as a digital bulletin board to keep you in the loop about changes to benefits, deadlines, and major policy updates. If you’re no longer an active USPS employee but still receive annuitant benefits, this is the platform you should rely on.

Features Available Through KeepingPosted

• View or update your annuitant health benefits

• Access Open Season information and updates

• Learn about Medicare requirements tied to your PSHB plan

• Download forms for address changes or dependent updates

• Receive important updates from OPM and USPS about benefit changes

You don’t need an employee ID to access KeepingPosted. Instead, you sign in using your annuitant credentials provided by OPM.

Key Differences Between LiteBlue and KeepingPosted

Even though both platforms serve the USPS community, their purposes and audiences differ. Understanding the distinctions can prevent confusion.

LiteBlue

• For active USPS employees

• Offers access to job tools, pay records, and benefit management

• Requires employee ID and two-step authentication

KeepingPosted

• For retirees and separated employees

• Focuses on health benefits, retirement services, and updates

• Uses OPM-issued login credentials

If you are transitioning from active employment to retirement in 2025, you’ll move from using LiteBlue to KeepingPosted once your separation is processed and OPM finalizes your annuitant status.

How the PSHB Program Fits In

As of January 1, 2025, all eligible USPS employees and retirees receive health insurance through the new Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program. This transition from the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) system requires both LiteBlue and KeepingPosted to be used depending on your employment status.

For Current Employees

Use LiteBlue to:

• Compare PSHB plans during Open Season (November to December)

• Enroll or make changes to your plan

• Access plan brochures and premium information

For Retirees

Use KeepingPosted to:

• Review your PSHB annuitant options

• Ensure you’re meeting Medicare Part B enrollment requirements

• Stay updated on your plan’s benefits and out-of-pocket limits

This dual-platform approach ensures that no matter where you are in your USPS journey, you have access to the tools and information necessary for informed decision-making.

When to Use Which Platform

If You’re an Active Employee:

Use LiteBlue regularly for payroll, leave balances, and benefits. During Open Season or Qualifying Life Events (QLEs), this platform is essential for modifying health insurance coverage.

If You’re a Retiree:

Log into KeepingPosted to check the latest on PSHB plans, Medicare integration, and cost updates. During Open Season, this is your portal for switching or reviewing annuitant coverage.

If You’re Transitioning to Retirement:

You may need to access both platforms during your retirement process. Use LiteBlue until your separation date, then shift to KeepingPosted after your annuitant status is active.

Security Updates in 2025

Both LiteBlue and KeepingPosted have strengthened their login protocols in 2025. Two-factor authentication is now standard for LiteBlue, and KeepingPosted requires updated email verification and security questions for password recovery.

Protect your credentials and keep them current, especially during Open Season or when making changes to benefits. USPS recommends updating your contact information every six months to avoid service disruptions.

Navigating Open Season Efficiently

Open Season takes place from November to December annually. It’s your chance to:

• Switch PSHB plans

• Add or remove dependents

• Adjust coverage levels

Use LiteBlue or KeepingPosted to:

• Review plan comparisons and estimated out-of-pocket costs

• Ensure your Medicare Part B enrollment is current if you’re eligible

• Confirm your elections before the deadline to avoid automatic re-enrollment

What Happens If You Do Nothing During Open Season

If you’re already enrolled in a PSHB plan and take no action during Open Season, you will automatically be re-enrolled in your existing plan. However, if your plan has changed its benefits or premiums for 2025, you could face unexpected costs.

You should check LiteBlue or KeepingPosted for your plan’s 2025 brochure and confirm it still meets your healthcare needs and budget.

How to Get Help When You’re Stuck

If you encounter problems logging into either portal or have questions about your benefits:

• Contact the HR Shared Service Center (HRSSC) for LiteBlue issues

• Use the PSHB Navigator Help Line at 1-833-712-7742 for health benefits support

• Visit OPM’s website for annuitant-related questions

Documentation is critical. Always keep copies of any confirmations or submissions made on either portal.

Staying Informed All Year Long

While Open Season is an important annual event, it’s not the only time you should check these portals. Throughout the year, you can:

• Monitor benefits utilization and costs

• Update your mailing or email address

• Read policy changes affecting annuitants or active workers

• Confirm TSP contributions or annuity payment amounts

A quarterly check-in with LiteBlue or KeepingPosted ensures you’re not missing out on benefits or falling out of compliance with program rules.

Integrated Use Brings Better Outcomes

Using LiteBlue and KeepingPosted in tandem allows for smoother transitions between employment stages, more accurate benefit management, and faster problem resolution. Whether you’re applying for Medicare Part B to meet PSHB requirements or switching plans during Open Season, knowing where to go saves time and confusion.

Understanding How These Platforms Evolve

USPS and OPM continue to upgrade these systems with user experience in mind. Future updates may include mobile-friendly versions, expanded FAQs, and real-time chat support. Staying engaged with these tools today ensures you’re ready for the digital changes coming tomorrow.

Managing Your USPS Benefits Has Never Been More Important

Whether you’re decades into your postal career or recently retired, 2025 brings new complexities with the rollout of the PSHB program and ongoing security upgrades. Staying active on LiteBlue and KeepingPosted gives you better control over your healthcare, retirement income, and personal data.

Make sure to access the correct platform based on your employment status, especially during Open Season. And if you’re not sure which one to use or need help understanding your PSHB options, reach out to a licensed agent listed on this website for professional assistance.