IMPORTANT: Effective 12/19/22, OPM suspended applications for coverage under the FLTCIP. OPM and the FLTCIP carrier are currently assessing benefit offerings and establishing premium rates that are sustainable, reasonable, and equitable for the cost of the benefits provided. For additional information, visit LTCFEDS.com

FLTCIP Basics: What is the FLTCIP?

The Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) is a voluntary program that provides insurance for several types of long-term care that people may need if they cannot care for themselves. The FLTCIP includes nursing home care, assisted living facility care, formal and informal care in the home, hospice care, respite care, and similar services. Long-term care insurance covers care not covered by health insurance,

Medicare, or Medicaid.

Generally, if an employee is eligible for Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB), they will also be eligible for FLTCIP. A unique feature of the FLTCIP is that qualified relatives are also eligible to apply for insurance coverage.

Why have this type of insurance?

The chance of needing long-term care may increase as we age and our life span increases. At any age, you could suffer an accident or medical situation which requires long-term care. Unfortunately, little or no coverage for long-term care is provided through most health insurance, including FEHB. Long-term care insurance may be a way to preserve your assets from the high cost of specialized care and help you remain financially independent if long-term care is needed.

How does enrollment work?

First, you must apply. There is no “open season” or life event required to enroll. Long-term care insurance is medically underwritten. You’ll have to answer questions about your lifestyle and current and past health conditions. There are medical conditions that will prevent some from being approved for coverage. Applying is the only way to know if you will be approved for enrollment.

When can I apply?

Newly hired eligible employees and their spouses have 60 days to enroll. They are subject to abbreviated underwriting, which seeks to learn if they would be currently eligible to draw benefits or likely to be eligible in the near future. All other applicants, including current employees, retirees, and other eligible persons, are subject to the complete underwriting process.

Does the government contribute anything towards the premiums?

The government does not authorize a contribution for FLTCIP. Therefore, 100% of the premiums are paid by the enrollee.

Other important things to know:

• The coverage is guaranteed renewable. The insurance carrier cannot cancel the coverage if the premium payments are made.
• The coverage is portable. Leaving federal employment does not mean you lose coverage if premium payments are made.
• The initial premium is based on your age when your application is received and your selected benefit options. Re-enrollment is not necessary each year; your enrollment automatically continues each year.
• Your long-term care insurance enrollment will continue into retirement.
• Premiums can change in the future, and they are not guaranteed. However, the FLTCIP allows the choice between two inflation protection options.