AF Form 3558: Election Statement – Download & Guide 2026

AF Form 3558: Election Statement – Download & Guide 2026 – AF Form 3558, officially titled Election Statement, is a key U.S. Air Force form used primarily by Department of the Air Force civilian employees, especially those in Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) positions. It documents elections related to the payment method for group health and dental insurance premiums under the Flexible Benefits Plan (FBP).

This form allows eligible employees to choose between pre-tax or after-tax deductions for their health/dental coverage contributions, which can significantly impact take-home pay and taxable income.

What Is AF Form 3558 Used For?

The primary purpose of AF Form 3558 is to record an employee’s election of the method of payment for premiums under the Department of Defense Health Benefits Plan or related group health/dental coverage, in conjunction with the Air Force’s Flexible Benefits Plan (governed by IRC Section 125).

  • Pre-tax election: Premiums are deducted before federal income taxes (and often FICA), lowering your taxable income for the year. This is a common cafeteria plan benefit that can save money on taxes but may slightly reduce future Social Security benefits due to lower FICA wages.
  • After-tax election: Premiums are deducted from pay after taxes. This is the default if you do not elect the Flexible Benefits Plan or choose not to participate.

The form is referenced in AFMAN 34-302 (Nonappropriated Fund Personnel Management), which outlines procedures for electing group health/dental coverage and Flexible Benefits Plan participation. It is typically submitted alongside enrollment forms and processed with AF Form 2545 (Notification of Personnel Action) in the Defense Civilian Personnel Data System (DCPDS). Completed copies are filed in the employee’s Official Personnel Folder (OPF).

Note: For Stand Alone Dental Plan (SADP) transactions, a different form (GIP-SAD-FBP) may be required instead.

Who Needs to Complete AF Form 3558?

  • Active Air Force Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) employees enrolled (or enrolling) in the DoD Health Benefits Plan or group health/dental coverage.
  • Employees during initial eligibility periods (usually 31 days after hire or reclassification to regular full-time/part-time status).
  • Employees making changes due to qualifying life events (e.g., marriage, divorce, birth/adoption of a child, loss of other coverage).
  • During the annual Flexible Benefits Plan Open Enrollment Period (typically in the fall for the following calendar year).

Military members generally do not use this form; it targets civilian personnel, particularly NAF employees working in morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) activities, child development centers, golf courses, clubs, and similar facilities.

When and How to Use AF Form 3558?

  1. Initial Enrollment — Complete when first becoming eligible for coverage.
  2. Qualifying Events — Within 31 days of a qualifying life event (see AFMAN 34-302 Attachment 2 for the full list, which aligns with IRS rules).
  3. Open Enrollment — Annually, to confirm or change your election for the next plan year.
  4. Changes/Cancellations — Use the form to update your payment method. If you cancel coverage entirely, the FBP election is typically canceled automatically.

Important Restrictions:

  • Elections are generally locked for the plan year (calendar year) unless you have a qualifying event.
  • Pre-tax elections cannot be claimed as deductions on your individual tax return.
  • Contact your servicing Human Resources Office (HRO) or the Benefits and Entitlements Service Team (BEST) for assistance. Air Force civilians can often manage many benefits through the Government Retirement & Benefits (GRB) Platform.

Download the Official AF Form 3558:

Pro Tip: Read all instructions on the form and any accompanying guidance carefully. Incorrect elections can affect your paycheck and tax withholding.

How to Fill Out AF Form 3558?

While the exact blocks can vary slightly by version, typical sections include:

  • Employee personal information (name, SSN, position, organization).
  • Election statement regarding pre-tax vs. after-tax payment for health/dental premiums.
  • Signature and date.
  • HR or supervisor certification/processing sections.

Consult your local HRO or the instructions printed on the form for precise completion. Many installations provide training or counseling through Airman & Family Readiness Centers or civilian personnel offices.

  • Flexible Benefits Plan (FBP): Allows pre-tax payment of eligible premiums.
  • DoD Health Benefits: Often managed through TRICARE or FEHB-like options for certain civilians.
  • Government Retirement & Benefits (GRB) Platform: Primary tool for viewing and managing many civilian benefits.
  • AFMAN 34-302: Main regulation covering NAF personnel management and benefits elections.
  • MyAirForceBenefits: Official site for benefit information.

For personalized help:

  • Contact the Total Force Service Center or BEST at 1-800-525-0102 (select options for civilian benefits).
  • Visit your installation’s Civilian Personnel Office or Human Resources.

Why This Form Matters for Tax and Financial Planning?

Choosing the pre-tax option on AF Form 3558 can reduce your current taxable income, potentially lowering your federal and state tax burden. However, because it reduces FICA wages, it may have a minor long-term impact on Social Security. Review your overall financial situation—especially during open season or life changes—and consider consulting a tax advisor or Personal Financial Manager if available through your base services.

Stay Updated: Forms and policies can be revised. Always verify the current version on the official Air Force e-Publishing website and check with your HR specialist for the most current guidance applicable to your situation.

Keywords: AF Form 3558, Election Statement, Air Force civilian benefits, NAF Flexible Benefits Plan, pre-tax health insurance, AFMAN 34-302, DoD employee health election.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not official legal or HR advice. Policies are subject to change. Refer to official Department of the Air Force publications and consult your servicing HR office for guidance specific to your employment.

Official Download: AF Form 3558 PDF