What If I Don’t Qualify for Long-Term Care Insurance?
If you don’t qualify for one long-term care policy, you may still have options. Different products use different underwriting, and some alternatives, like certain annuity-based long-term care coverage, use simplified health questions. You can also build a plan around savings, home equity, and family support, and learn how Medicaid works in your state.
Why do applications get declined?
Common reasons include current health conditions, recent surgery, already needing help with daily activities, or cognitive concerns.
What should you ask first?
Ask your agent why, and whether another product with different underwriting might fit. For some conditions, timing matters, and an application may be considered differently after more time has passed.
What other insurance options might exist?
Annuity-based long-term care coverage, some of which uses simplified underwriting
Life insurance with long-term care or chronic illness benefits
Short-term care insurance, available in some states, which covers shorter periods with simpler underwriting
Availability, features, and eligibility vary by product and state. The NAIC’s consumer guide notes that some life insurance policies and annuity contracts offer long-term care benefits through add-on riders. (NAIC Shopper’s Guide)
How do you plan without coverage?
Set aside savings specifically for care
Consider how home equity could fit in
Agree on family roles ahead of time. See How to Divide Caregiving Between Siblings.
Understand Medicaid rules in your state, and talk with an elder law attorney. See Long-Term Care Insurance vs. Medicaid.
What about the rest of the plan?
Home changes and a support network matter even more without coverage. See Making Your Home Age-Ready, Room by Room. Your Area Agency on Aging can point you to local resources; find it through the Eldercare Locator.
If you work with Staying Power and the first path doesn’t fit, your agent will go through what else is available for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I reapply later?
Possibly. Depending on the reason, an application may be considered differently later. Ask your agent.
What is short-term care insurance?
Coverage for shorter periods of care, often less than a year, available in some states and often with simpler underwriting.
