Good News: FLTCIP is Portable!
Unlike many other benefits, your Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) coverage automatically continues after separation with the same terms and premiums, as long as you continue paying premiums.Introduction to FLTCIP and RIF
Long-term care insurance helps cover costs for assistance with daily living activities (like bathing, dressing, eating) if you have a chronic illness, disability, or cognitive impairment. These costs are typically not covered by regular health insurance or Medicare.
If you are enrolled in FLTCIP and facing a RIF, the good news is that your coverage is designed to be portable. This page explains how your coverage continues and what actions you need to take regarding premium payments.
FLTCIP Overview
What FLTCIP Covers
- Nursing home / Assisted living facility care
- Home health care (skilled or non-skilled)
- Adult day care
- Respite care (caregiver relief)
- Hospice care
- Caregiver training
- International care (limited)
Key FLTCIP Features
- Portability: Coverage continues after federal separation.
- Guaranteed Renewable: Cannot be canceled if premiums are paid.
- Inflation Protection: Options to help benefits keep pace with rising costs.
- Care Coordination: Services to help find appropriate care.
- Premium Stabilization: Feature designed to reduce future premium increases.
FLTCIP Continuation During a RIF
Your FLTCIP coverage is fully portable and continues automatically after separation. No specific action is required to keep the coverage itself active.
Premium Payment Transition:
During Employment:
Premiums usually paid via payroll deduction.
At Separation (RIF):
Coverage continues automatically. Payroll deduction stops.
After Separation:
Long Term Care Partners (the FLTCIP administrator) will contact you regarding new payment options. Ensure your contact information is up-to-date with them.
New Payment Options:
You must set up a new method: Automatic Bank Withdrawal (recommended), Direct Bill (monthly/quarterly/annually), or Retirement Annuity Deduction (if retiring).
Action Required: Premiums!
While coverage continues automatically, you MUST set up a new payment method to keep the coverage active long-term. Respond promptly to communications from Long Term Care Partners.Premium Payment Options After Separation
Choose the method that works best for you:
| Method | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automatic Bank Withdrawal (ACH) | Premiums automatically withdrawn from your bank account. |
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| Direct Bill | Receive paper or electronic bills. |
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| Retirement Annuity Deduction | Premiums deducted from OPM annuity (if retiring). |
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Contact Long Term Care Partners to set up your preferred method after separation.
FLTCIP vs. Private LTC Insurance After RIF
Should you keep FLTCIP or look for a private policy?
| Feature | FLTCIP (Post-RIF) | New Private LTC Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Underwriting | None Needed (already enrolled) | Required (can be denied) |
| Premium Stability | Premium Stabilization Feature | Varies greatly; potential for large increases |
| Benefit Options | Your existing comprehensive options | Wide range, but new selection |
| Portability | Fully Portable | Generally Portable |
| International Coverage | Included | Often limited or extra cost |
| Care Coordination | Included | Varies |
Recommendation
Generally, keeping your existing FLTCIP coverage is advantageous due to guaranteed continuation without new underwriting, especially if your health has changed since enrollment.Long-Term Care Cost Estimator
Estimate potential future LTC costs to evaluate your coverage needs. (Uses national averages, actual costs vary widely).
For more detailed calculations, visit the official LTCFEDS tools page .
Frequently Asked Questions (FLTCIP & RIF)
Contact Information and Resources
FLTCIP Contact
Long Term Care Partners, LLC
1-800-LTC-FEDS (582-3337)
TTY: 1-800-843-3557
www.LTCFEDS.com
Long-Term Care Planning Worksheet
Use this to keep track of your FLTCIP details.