The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has announced a further extension to the suspension of the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP). Originally set to expire on December 19, 2024, the suspension on new enrollments and increased coverage applications will now remain in effect for an additional 24 months from that date, unless OPM provides notice of an earlier end or further extension.
This continuation of the suspension means that individuals who are not currently enrolled in the FLTCIP cannot apply for coverage. Furthermore, existing enrollees are also restricted from applying to increase their current coverage levels during this extended suspension period.
OPM has stated that this decision to extend the FLTCIP suspension is a necessary measure to protect the program’s integrity. The extension is attributed to significant and persistent instability within the long term care market. This volatility, combined with rising long term care costs, has made it increasingly challenging to offer benefit packages with premium rates that are both reasonable and accurately reflect the actual costs of providing the promised benefits. This requirement for rate setting is mandated by U.S.C. 9003(b)(2).
The Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program plays a crucial role in providing financial security for eligible individuals who may require long term care services. This insurance is designed to help cover the substantial costs associated with needing assistance with daily living activities or when facing severe cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s disease.
When the FLTCIP program is active and not under suspension, a wide range of individuals are typically eligible to apply for coverage. This includes most federal employees, U.S. Postal Service employees and annuitants, active and retired members of the uniformed services, and certain qualified relatives of these groups.
Generally, for employees to be eligible to apply for FLTCIP coverage during open enrollment periods, they must also be eligible for the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program, regardless of whether they are actually enrolled in FEHB. This FEHB eligibility requirement does not apply to annuitants. It is important to note that certain pre-existing medical conditions, or combinations thereof, may prevent an applicant from being approved for FLTCIP coverage. Individuals must formally apply to determine their eligibility for enrollment when the program is open.
For those seeking more detailed information about the Federal Long Term Care Program and the current suspension, Long Term Care Partners can be contacted directly at 1-800-582-3337. Additionally, comprehensive information and resources are available on the LTCFEDS website.
The LTCFEDS Care Navigator is also a valuable tool. This resource library is specifically designed to assist caregivers and individuals navigating the complexities of aging and long term care needs. It offers support and guidance through the various stages, from maintaining independence to understanding and accessing long term care options.
