OPM is suspending applications for coverage under the FLTCIP to allow OPM and the FLTCIP carrier, John Hancock Life & Health Insurance Company, the time to thoroughly assess benefit offerings and establish sustainable premium rates that reasonably and equitably reflect the cost of the benefits provided, as required under 5 U.S.C. 9003(b)(2). For additional information about FLTCIP premiums, you may visit LTCFEDS.com/about-premiums.
OPM has determined that a suspension of applications for FLTCIP coverage, including coverage increases, is in the best interest of the program. OPM published a Federal Register Notice of Suspension for current and newly eligible individuals applying for coverage under the FLTCIP after the final regulation was published.
As of December 19, 2022, individuals not currently enrolled may not apply for coverage, and current enrollees may not apply to increase their coverage. The suspension will remain in effect for 24 months, unless OPM issues a subsequent notice to end or extend the suspension period. Newly eligible employees and newly eligible spouses of employees may apply with abbreviated underwriting and other eligible individuals can apply with full underwriting until 11:59 p.m. (ET) on December 18, 2022.
Eligible individuals who submit an application for FLTCIP prior to the start of the suspension period will have their application considered. If the application is approved for coverage, then the individual will receive a benefit booklet and schedule of benefits with complete coverage information.
Current enrollees’ coverage status will not change as long as they continue to pay premium. For those in a claim status, there is no change to coverage or the claims reimbursement process as long as benefits have not been exhausted.