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Long Term Care Insurance
What Is Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance?
Long-term care (LTC) insurance is coverage that provides nursing-home care, home health care, and personal or adult day care for individuals with a chronic or disabling condition that needs constant supervision. LTC insurance offers more flexibility and options than many public assistance programs, such as Medicaid.
In addition to other insurance coverage, LTC insurance can help you protect your family’s financial well-being while getting the necessary care.
Understanding Long-Term Care Insurance
Many people are unable to rely on children or family members for support and buy long-term care insurance to help cover out-of-pocket expenses. Otherwise, long-term care expenses would quickly deplete the savings of an individual and/or their family.
While the costs of long-term care differ by region, it is usually very expensive. In 2020, for example, the average cost of a private room in a skilled nursing facility or nursing home was $105,850 a year, according to a report on long-term care by Genworth. A home health aide costs an average of $54,912 annually.
Comparing LTC Insurance and Medicare
Medicaid provides for low-income individuals or those who spend down savings and investments because of care and exhaust their assets. Each state has its own guidelines and eligibility requirements.
Long-term care insurance usually covers all or part of assisted living facilities and in-home care. Medicaid rarely does. Full home care coverage is an option with long-term care insurance. It will cover expenses for a visiting or live-in caregiver, companion, housekeeper, therapist, or private-duty nurse up to seven days a week, 24 hours per day, up to the policy benefit maximum.
When Should I Buy Long-Term Care Insurance?
Many experts suggest shopping for long-term care insurance between the ages of 45 and 55, as part of an overall retirement plan to protect assets from the high costs and burdens of extended healthcare. Long-term care insurance is also cheaper if you buy it younger. In 2020, the average annual premium for a couple, both 55 years old, was $3,050, according to the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance.
While premiums can cost less if you buy a policy at a younger age, you will be paying for coverage many years before you are likely to need it. So weigh your options carefully.
Are There Tax Benefits to LTC Insurance?
Long-term care insurance premiums can be tax-deductible if the policy is tax-qualified and the policyholder itemizes tax deductions, among other factors. Usually, companies that pay long-term care premiums for an employee can deduct them as a business expense.
Are There Alternatives to Long-Term Care Insurance?
Due to the high cost of this product, a number of alternative ways of paying for health needs in later years have come on the market. They include life insurance and annuities with long-term care riders. Think through what would make the most sense for you and your family — especially if you’re a couple with a significant age or health difference that could affect your lives going forward.