A variety of health insurance plans are available to Federal employees, with the Government paying about 60 to 72 percent of the cost and the employee paying 28 to 40 percent, depending on the health plan.  Basic life insurance is automatic and effective on the first workday the employee is in pay and duty status, unless the employee chooses to waive the life insurance coverage.  The Government pays one-third of the cost for Basic life insurance.  Basic life insurance is the employee's salary, rounded to the next higher $1,000, plus $2,000.  The employee pays 15.5 cents per $1,000.  Optional life insurance is available for purchase.  Visit the official website for more information on life insurance and health insurance.