Long-term care insurance for feds (FLTCIP): where it stands now
Get Your Free Consultation
Talk one-on-one with a licensed financial professional who specializes in federal benefits. Completely free, no obligation.
Last updated
Published November 1, 2026 · By the OnPAR Federal Retirement Education editorial team · Last reviewed Nov 2026
Short answer: You can't apply for Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) coverage right now. OPM suspended new applications on December 19, 2022, and extended the suspension for 24 months starting December 19, 2024, "unless OPM issues a subsequent notice to end or extend" it (OPM). If you're already enrolled, your coverage and claims are not affected. FLTCIP is not part of the November 9 to December 14 Open Season.
Where things stand (as of Nov 1, 2026)
| Status | |
|---|---|
| New applications | Suspended |
| Current enrollees increasing coverage | Not allowed during the suspension |
| Existing coverage and claims | Unchanged |
| Current suspension period | 24 months from Dec 19, 2024 |
| Carrier | John Hancock Life & Health Insurance Company |
Sources: OPM Long Term Care, Federal Register 89 FR 89662 (Nov 13, 2024), LTCFEDS suspension notice.
Why OPM suspended it
OPM cites "ongoing volatility in long term care costs and a diminished insurance market," which make it hard to set premiums that "reasonably and equitably reflect the cost of the benefits provided," as the law requires (5 U.S.C. 9003(b)(2)) (OPM BAL 24-901).
What happens next
Under 5 CFR 875.110(d), OPM must publish a Federal Register notice at least 30 days before a suspension period ends to start another one, and each extension can't exceed 24 more months (Federal Register). We haven't seen a new OPM notice yet. We'll update this page when OPM announces whether applications reopen or the suspension continues. Check the OPM Long Term Care page for the latest.
Who was eligible before the suspension
OPM says that when FLTCIP isn't suspended, most federal and Postal employees and annuitants, active and retired uniformed service members, and qualified relatives can apply. Employees must be FEHB-eligible. Annuitants don't need FEHB. Some medical conditions prevent approval (OPM).
If you're enrolled now
- Your coverage continues as long as you pay premiums.
- For questions, call Long Term Care Partners at 1-800-582-3337 (TTY 1-800-843-3557) or visit LTCFEDS.
- OPM's LTCFEDS Care Navigator has a cost-of-care tool for home care, assisted living and nursing homes in your area (OPM Open Season Highlights).
If you're not enrolled
You can't join FLTCIP while it's suspended. Long-term care planning is still worth doing before retirement. Private long-term care policies and hybrid life or annuity products are offered by insurance companies outside the federal program. They are not FLTCIP and are regulated by your state insurance department. Compare carefully and ask a licensed professional. See our Start Here guide for the rest of your retirement checklist.
Sources
- OPM: Long Term Care (FLTCIP)
- Federal Register: Extension of Suspension of FLTCIP Applications, 89 FR 89662
- OPM BAL 24-901
- LTCFEDS: Suspension Notice
Questions and answers
Can I apply for FLTCIP right now?
No. OPM has suspended new FLTCIP applications. The current extension runs 24 months from December 19, 2024, unless OPM issues a notice ending or extending it.
Does the suspension affect my existing FLTCIP coverage?
No. OPM says the enrollment status and benefit eligibility of current enrollees do not change, and claims reimbursement is unchanged. Current enrollees cannot increase coverage during the suspension.
Can I sign up for FLTCIP during Open Season?
No. FLTCIP is not part of the Federal Benefits Open Season, and applications are suspended.
Why did OPM suspend FLTCIP?
OPM cites ongoing volatility in long term care costs and a diminished insurance market, which make it hard to set premiums that reasonably reflect the cost of benefits.