The Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) is designed to help eligible federal employees, U.S. Postal Service workers, members of the uniformed services, annuitants, and their qualified relatives plan for their future long-term care needs. Long-term care refers to the services and support needed when someone can no longer perform everyday activities on their own due to chronic illness, injury, disability, or cognitive impairment such as Alzheimer’s disease. These services can range from assistance with daily living activities like bathing, dressing, and eating, to more comprehensive care in various settings including home, assisted living facilities, or nursing homes.
Alt text: Compassionate caregiver assisting a senior with daily living, illustrating long-term care support.
FLTCIP aims to ease the financial burden associated with these significant costs. Without insurance, long-term care expenses can quickly deplete savings and impact retirement security. FLTCIP offers a way to protect individuals and families from these potential financial hardships by providing benefits to help cover the cost of care when it’s needed most.
Who is Eligible for FLTCIP?
When the program is open for enrollment, a wide range of individuals are typically eligible to apply. This includes:
- Federal and U.S. Postal Service employees: Most employees who are eligible for the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program can apply, even if they are not enrolled in FEHB.
- Annuitants: Federal and U.S. Postal Service annuitants, retirees, and compensationers are eligible, regardless of FEHB enrollment.
- Active and retired members of the uniformed services: This encompasses active duty military personnel, retirees, and members of the Guard and Reserve.
- Qualified relatives: Spouses, adult children, parents, parents-in-law, and step-parents of eligible employees, annuitants, and service members can also apply for coverage.
It’s important to note that eligibility to apply does not guarantee enrollment. Like other types of insurance, FLTCIP involves an application process that includes underwriting. Certain pre-existing medical conditions or combinations of conditions may prevent approval for coverage.
Important Update: Current Suspension of FLTCIP Enrollment
Currently, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has suspended enrollment in FLTCIP. This suspension, now extended until December 19, 2024, means that individuals not already enrolled cannot apply for coverage, and current enrollees cannot apply to increase their coverage. This decision is attributed to volatility in long-term care costs and market conditions that are impacting the program’s ability to offer sustainable and equitable premiums.
Alt text: The official seal of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the agency overseeing FLTCIP.
Accessing More Information
While new enrollments are currently suspended, understanding FLTCIP and planning for long-term care remains crucial. For those interested in learning more about the program when it reopens or for current enrollees with questions, resources are available.
You can contact Long Term Care Partners at 1-800-582-3337 or visit the official LTCFEDS website for comprehensive details and updates regarding the program’s status. Additionally, the LTCFEDS Care Navigator offers a valuable resource library to support caregivers and individuals navigating the complexities of aging and long-term care needs.
