Long Term Care insurance is rising in popularity. Following is a definition of this insurance, including the general types available. Services provided are discussed. The advantages to having this coverage, and the best time to purchase a policy, will also be explained.
This coverage helps cover the expense of care for an extended period. The beneficiary can be virtually any age, and does not have to be “sick” in the clinical sense. This is simply someone who cannot carry out at least two necessary daily activities. These may include eating, dressing, toileting, bathing and walking. The services provided are not made available by Medicare or Medicaid.
Two basic kinds of insurance exist. A “tax-qualified” plan is most pervasive. This is more popular because premiums are tax-deductible. The main qualification is that the insured must not be able to perform two or more basic functions. A “non tax-qualified” plan is a policy that requires the recipient to be incapable of performing only one basic activity each day, but premiums cannot be deducted in taxes. Tax laws are complicated, so it is advisable to seek professional advice when choosing plans. Employer group insurance is available, but may not be tax-qualified.
Services included in this coverage are home care, adult day care, hospice, Alzheimer’s facilities, and assisted living. These plans also pay the expense of a live-in nurse or companion. Most expenses are reimbursed to the insured. Rates are generally determined by age and health status of the beneficiary at the time the insurance is purchased, the length of the waiting period before plan benefits begin, and any protection against future inflation.
This coverage is helpful because it provides care for those without family or friends who are able to do so. In addition, it pays for services that Medicare and Medicaid do not. Home health care costs an average of $29 per hour. Medicaid pays some of this cost, but usually sell off most assets before becoming eligible. Medicare provides some home care and short term stay in nursing facilities, but no long term care.
Many financial planners advise that the best time to purchase this insurance is when individuals are in their mid to late fifties. Premiums are cheaper if purchased at a younger age, however premiums are paid for a far longer period of time before the insurance is needed. If one waits until he or she is older, then premiums are extremely expensive. People can self-insure if their net worth is over $2 million, excluding the cost of their home. If net worth is below $200,000, then a policy is probably not affordable. If net worth is between these two numbers, then Long Term Care insurance is recommended.
People are living longer, but because of this, usually end up needing assistance later in life. Therefore, Long Term Care insurance should be addressed as part of retirement planning. While premiums can be expensive, they can be less costly than actual health and long term care costs. Those who purchase these policies feel assured that they will be cared for, and their personal assets protected.
For more information on how Long Term Care Insurance can help prepare us as we age. Also you can get a long term care insurance quote. We represent 20 of the top LTCi providers. This gives you tremendous options.
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