Long Term Care Annuity
An annuity is a series of regular payments over a specified and defined period of
time. The funds for the annuity come from a single premium payment that you make
when establishing the account. There are two types of annuities: deferred and immediate.
A deferred annuity includes two funds. The interest-bearing long term care fund
is used to pay for long term care services and insurance. The cash fund grows at
a guaranteed rate of 3 percent. To be eligible for this annuity, you must be under
the age of 85 and meet health requirements. Individuals with specific conditions
such as dementia or Parkinson’s are not eligible. The monthly amount depends upon
the annuity value and generally provides coverage for up to 3 years.
For those who are not eligible for insurance because of pre-existing medical conditions,
an immediate annuity provides long term care coverage. This generally requires completing
a medical questionnaire the insurance company uses to determine the price and length
of payouts. Once you pay a single premium payment, you are guaranteed a monthly
income for the rest of your life.
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Advantages |
Disadvantages |
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If you have existing medical conditions, an annuity may be easier to qualify for
than long term care insurance. |
The annuity may not be enough to pay for long term care expenses, especially if
the annuity does not account for future price increases (inflation). |
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You can get an immediate annuity even if you’re already receiving long term care. |
Complicated tax implications mean you should consult with a tax advisor. |
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If you don’t use up the entire annuity, you may be able to leave the rest to your heirs. |
For a deferred annuity, the benefit length typically lasts only three years. |
