Frequently Asked Questions
Click on the questions and the answer will be displayed at the bottom of this page.

  • What Is Long-Term Care?
  • How Much Does Long-Term Care Cost?
  • Who Pays For Long-Term Care?
  • Who May Need Long-Term Care?
  • Do You Need Long-Term Care Insurance?
  • Is Long-Term Care Insurance Right For You?
  • What Is a Federally Tax-Qualified Long-Term Care Insurance Policy?
  • How Can You Buy Insurance to Pay for Long-Term Care?
  • How Do Long-Term Care Insurance Policies Work?
  • Other Long-Term Care Insurance Policy Options You Might Choose
  • What Happens If You Can't Afford the Premiums Anymore?
  • Will Your Health Affect Your Ability to Buy a Policy?
  • What Happens If You Have Pre-Existing Conditions?
  • Can You Renew Your Long-Term Care Insurance Policy?
  • What Do Long-Term Care Insurance Policies Cost?
  • If You Already Own a Policy, Should You Switch Plans or Upgrade the Coverage You Have Now?

    Can You Renew Your Long-Term Care Insurance Policy?

    In most states, long-term care insurance policies sold today must be guaranteed renewable. When a policy is guaranteed renewable, it means that the insurance company guarantees you a chance to renew the policy. It does not mean that it guarantees you a chance to renew at the same premium. You premium may go up over time as your company pays more and larger claims.

    Insurance companies can raise the premiums on their policies but only if they increase the premiums on all policies that are the same in that state. No individual can be singled out for a rate increase, no mater how many claims have been filed. In some states, the premium can't increase just because you are older.

    If you bought a policy in a group setting and you leave the group, you may be able to keep your group coverage or convert it to an individual policy buy you may pay more. You can ask your state insurance department if your state requires this option.