Long-term care life insurance policies, also known as hybrid or combination policies, are insurance products that combine the benefits of long-term care coverage with a life insurance component. Here’s an overview of how these policies generally work:
Purchase of the Policy:
You would typically purchase a long-term care life insurance policy from an insurance company. The policy contract outlines the terms and conditions, including the premium payment schedule, coverage limits, and the types of benefits provided.
Premium Payments:
Regular premium payments are made to the insurance company to keep the policy in force. Premiums can be paid over a fixed period or throughout the policyholder’s lifetime. The premium amount is determined based on factors such as the age, health condition, and coverage selected.
Long-Term Care Benefit Activation:
You can activate the long-term care benefit of the policy when you need long-term care. The triggering event or qualification criteria would be specified in the policy contract. This may include being unable to perform certain activities of daily living (ADLs) or needing substantial assistance due to cognitive impairment.
Long-Term Care Benefit Payouts:
The policy provides regular payments or a lump sum to cover the costs of qualifying long-term care services. The benefit amount and duration are determined by the terms of the policy. Some policies offer a fixed monthly benefit amount, while others provide a percentage of the total policy death benefit.
Death Benefit:
If you pass away without using the long-term care benefit, the policy provides a death benefit. The death benefit is paid to the designated beneficiaries, similar to a traditional life insurance policy. It can be structured in different ways, such as a level benefit amount or a reduced benefit amount based on any long-term care benefits already paid out.
It’s important to note that specific details and features of long-term care life insurance policies can vary among insurance providers and policy options. It’s recommended to carefully review the terms, coverage, costs, and payout structure of the policy before making a purchase. Consulting with a financial advisor or insurance professional who specializes in long-term care insurance can provide you with personalized guidance based on your individual circumstances and needs.
Roy Snarr has built a multi-million dollar business marketing and selling asset protection strategies for “safe” retirement. CFF®, CLTC®, NSSA ®, LACP
