The U.S. Office of Personnel Management has extended the suspension period for all new Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program applications.
The agency, also known as OPM, initially suspended applications for two years beginning in 2022. This suspension has been extended until Dec. 19, 2026.
In a statement, OPM said the suspension is needed because of ongoing volatility in long-term care costs and a diminished insurance market, which are undermining the ability to establish benefit offerings with premium rates that reasonably and equitably reflect the cost of the benefits provided.
During the suspension, federal employees and annuitants not currently enrolled may not apply for coverage, and current enrollees may not apply to increase their coverage.
The program’s website has additional information.