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traditional and hybrid long-term care insurance compare</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408133">What traditional coverage includes</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408134">How much traditional policies cost by age</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408135">What to know before buying a traditional policy</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408136">What hybrid coverage includes</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408137">How much hybrid policies cost by age</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408138">What to know before buying a hybrid policy</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408139">The bottom line</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref2264206-references">References</a></li></ul><div class="font-14 font-weight-bold mt-20">Read More</div><div class="TableOfContents_RelatedArticle__yK5m6" data-testid="RelatedContents"><a href="/money/reverse-mortgage" class="link-black" data-testid="RelatedContent-1-2235021-1"><div class="card card-sm card-horizontal my-15" data-testid="Card"><div class="card-media" data-testid="CardMedia" style="aspect-ratio:50/40"><img loading="lazy" src="https://cdn.britannica.com/62/235562-050-ACABD272/Portrait-of-senior-husband-and-wife-in-front-of-suburban-home.jpg?c=crop&h=40&w=50" alt="Portrait of senior husband and wife in front of suburban home" data-testid="IrisImage"/></div><div class="card-body" data-testid="CardBody"><div class="font-14">What is a reverse mortgage, and should I consider one?</div></div></div></a><a href="/money/target-date-fund" class="link-black" data-testid="RelatedContent-1-2235023-1"><div class="card card-sm card-horizontal my-15" data-testid="Card"><div class="card-media" data-testid="CardMedia" style="aspect-ratio:50/40"><img loading="lazy" src="https://cdn.britannica.com/05/234705-050-FFEDC382/St-George-Cross-Darts-dartboard-2021-in-Burton-upon-Trent-England.jpg?c=crop&h=40&w=50" alt="Darts on a dartboard" data-testid="IrisImage"/></div><div class="card-body" data-testid="CardBody"><div class="font-14">What is a target-date fund?</div></div></div></a><a href="/money/end-of-life-planning-guide" class="link-black" data-testid="RelatedContent-1-2235000-1"><div class="card card-sm card-horizontal my-15" data-testid="Card"><div class="card-media" data-testid="CardMedia" style="aspect-ratio:50/40"><img loading="lazy" src="https://cdn.britannica.com/16/238516-050-22D05D35/Serious-elderly-woman-and-her-daughter-talking-and-holding-hands.jpg?c=crop&h=40&w=50" alt="A photo of a serious elderly woman and her daughter talking and holding hands." data-testid="IrisImage"/></div><div class="card-body" data-testid="CardBody"><div class="font-14">End of life planning: Cremation vs. burial, choosing a nursing home, and more</div></div></div></a></div></div><button class="btn btn-outline-undefined TableOfContents_MobileTableOfContentsButton__dHpRi d-md-none mb-20 w-100 d-none" data-testid="MobileTableOfContents" type="button" aria-label="Table Of Contents" style="--category-color:var(--green)"><svg stroke="currentColor" fill="currentColor" stroke-width="0" viewBox="0 0 24 24" height="1em" width="1em" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path fill="none" d="M0 0h24v24H0V0z"></path><path d="M4 10.5c-.83 0-1.5.67-1.5 1.5s.67 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5-.67 1.5-1.5-.67-1.5-1.5-1.5zm0-6c-.83 0-1.5.67-1.5 1.5S3.17 7.5 4 7.5 5.5 6.83 5.5 6 4.83 4.5 4 4.5zm0 12c-.83 0-1.5.68-1.5 1.5s.68 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5-.68 1.5-1.5-.67-1.5-1.5-1.5zM7 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class="mb-5">Long-term care insurance costs, from traditional to hybrid policies</h1><div class="mb-10 font-20 text-gray-700">Weighing pricey premiums against future care expenses.</div><div class="mb-10" data-testid="ArticleUtilityBar"><button class="btn btn-outline-blue btn-xs py-5 px-10 shadow-sm mr-5" data-testid="ArticleUtilityBar-Print" type="button" aria-label="Print"><svg stroke="currentColor" fill="currentColor" stroke-width="0" viewBox="0 0 24 24" class="ArticleUtilityBar_UtilityButtonIcon__6w04y mr-5" height="1em" width="1em" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path fill="none" d="M0 0h24v24H0z"></path><path d="M19 8H5c-1.66 0-3 1.34-3 3v6h4v4h12v-4h4v-6c0-1.66-1.34-3-3-3zm-3 11H8v-5h8v5zm3-7c-.55 0-1-.45-1-1s.45-1 1-1 1 .45 1 1-.45 1-1 1zm-1-9H6v4h12V3z"></path></svg>Print</button><button class="btn btn-outline-blue btn-xs py-5 px-10 shadow-sm mr-5" data-testid="ArticleUtilityBar-Cite" type="button" aria-label="Cite"><svg stroke="currentColor" fill="currentColor" 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xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path fill="none" d="M0 0h24v24H0z"></path><path d="M18 16.08c-.76 0-1.44.3-1.96.77L8.91 12.7c.05-.23.09-.46.09-.7s-.04-.47-.09-.7l7.05-4.11c.54.5 1.25.81 2.04.81 1.66 0 3-1.34 3-3s-1.34-3-3-3-3 1.34-3 3c0 .24.04.47.09.7L8.04 9.81C7.5 9.31 6.79 9 6 9c-1.66 0-3 1.34-3 3s1.34 3 3 3c.79 0 1.5-.31 2.04-.81l7.12 4.16c-.05.21-.08.43-.08.65 0 1.61 1.31 2.92 2.92 2.92 1.61 0 2.92-1.31 2.92-2.92s-1.31-2.92-2.92-2.92z"></path></svg>Share</button><span hidden="" style="position:fixed;top:1px;left:1px;width:1px;height:0;padding:0;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;border-width:0;display:none"></span></div><div class="" data-testid="BylinesWrapper"><strong class="font-12 mr-5 text-center">Written by</strong><span class="mr-5" data-testid="Byline"><span class="Byline_popoverTrigger__xVs4j font-14" id="_R6eajjtsuesq">Debbie Carlson</span></span><div class="popover AuthorPopover_AuthorPopover__0W0b4" data-testid="Popover"><a class="font-weight-semi-bold" href="/money/author/debbie-carlson/12818145">Debbie Carlson</a><div class="AuthorPopover_shortBio__1tFaf mt-5 font-14 font-serif text-gray-700 line-clamp clamp-4"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Debbie Carlson is a veteran financial journalist who writes about many personal finance and financial industry topics such as retirement, consumer spending, sustainable and ESG investing, commodity markets, exchanged-traded funds, mutual funds and much more, in an easy-to-understand way. Debbie writes for many high-level and top-tier media organizations and has contributed to Barron's, Chicago Tribune, The Guardian, MarketWatch, The Wall Street Journal, and U.S. News & World Report, among other publications. She holds a BA in Journalism from Eastern Illinois University.</span></div><div data-popper-arrow="true"></div></div></div><strong class="font-12 mr-5">Fact-checked by</strong><span class="mr-5" data-testid="Byline"><span class="Byline_popoverTrigger__xVs4j font-14" id="_R6majjtsuesq">David Schepp</span></span><div class="popover AuthorPopover_AuthorPopover__0W0b4" data-testid="Popover"><a class="font-weight-semi-bold" href="/money/author/david-schepp/12995277">David Schepp</a><div class="AuthorPopover_shortBio__1tFaf mt-5 font-14 font-serif text-gray-700 line-clamp clamp-4">David Schepp is a veteran financial journalist with more than two decades of experience in financial news editing and reporting for print, digital, and multimedia publications.</div><div data-popper-arrow="true"></div></div><div class="caption mt-5 d-flex" data-testid="ContentDateAndHistory"><span>Updated: <time dateTime="Mar. 10, 2025">Mar. 10, 2025</time></span></div></div><div class="TableOfContents_TableOfContents__g8WLR d-none" data-testid="TableOfContents"><div class="font-16 font-weight-bold">Table of Contents</div><hr class="mt-0"/><ul class="TableOfContents_TableOfContentsList__yU1tL p-0 mt-0 mb-0 list-unstyled pl-5" style="--category-color:var(--green)"><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref2264206-1">Introduction</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408132">How traditional and hybrid long-term care insurance compare</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408133">What traditional coverage includes</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408134">How much traditional policies cost by age</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408135">What to know before buying a traditional policy</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408136">What hybrid coverage includes</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408137">How much hybrid policies cost by age</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408138">What to know before buying a hybrid policy</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408139">The bottom line</a></li><li class="link-black font-14 my-10"><a href="/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref2264206-references">References</a></li></ul><div class="font-14 font-weight-bold mt-20">Read More</div><div class="TableOfContents_RelatedArticle__yK5m6" data-testid="RelatedContents"><a href="/money/reverse-mortgage" class="link-black" data-testid="RelatedContent-1-2235021-1"><div class="card card-sm card-horizontal my-15" data-testid="Card"><div class="card-media" data-testid="CardMedia" style="aspect-ratio:50/40"><img loading="lazy" src="https://cdn.britannica.com/62/235562-050-ACABD272/Portrait-of-senior-husband-and-wife-in-front-of-suburban-home.jpg?c=crop&h=40&w=50" alt="Portrait of senior husband and wife in front of suburban home" data-testid="IrisImage"/></div><div class="card-body" data-testid="CardBody"><div class="font-14">What is a reverse mortgage, and should I consider one?</div></div></div></a><a href="/money/target-date-fund" class="link-black" data-testid="RelatedContent-1-2235023-1"><div class="card card-sm card-horizontal my-15" data-testid="Card"><div class="card-media" data-testid="CardMedia" style="aspect-ratio:50/40"><img loading="lazy" src="https://cdn.britannica.com/05/234705-050-FFEDC382/St-George-Cross-Darts-dartboard-2021-in-Burton-upon-Trent-England.jpg?c=crop&h=40&w=50" alt="Darts on a dartboard" data-testid="IrisImage"/></div><div class="card-body" data-testid="CardBody"><div class="font-14">What is a target-date fund?</div></div></div></a><a href="/money/end-of-life-planning-guide" class="link-black" data-testid="RelatedContent-1-2235000-1"><div class="card card-sm card-horizontal my-15" data-testid="Card"><div class="card-media" data-testid="CardMedia" style="aspect-ratio:50/40"><img loading="lazy" src="https://cdn.britannica.com/16/238516-050-22D05D35/Serious-elderly-woman-and-her-daughter-talking-and-holding-hands.jpg?c=crop&h=40&w=50" alt="A photo of a serious elderly woman and her daughter talking and holding hands." data-testid="IrisImage"/></div><div class="card-body" data-testid="CardBody"><div class="font-14">End of life planning: Cremation vs. burial, choosing a nursing home, and more</div></div></div></a></div></div><button class="btn btn-outline-undefined TableOfContents_MobileTableOfContentsButton__dHpRi d-md-none mb-20 w-100" data-testid="MobileTableOfContents" type="button" aria-label="Table Of Contents" style="--category-color:var(--green)"><svg stroke="currentColor" fill="currentColor" stroke-width="0" viewBox="0 0 24 24" height="1em" width="1em" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path fill="none" d="M0 0h24v24H0V0z"></path><path d="M4 10.5c-.83 0-1.5.67-1.5 1.5s.67 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5-.67 1.5-1.5-.67-1.5-1.5-1.5zm0-6c-.83 0-1.5.67-1.5 1.5S3.17 7.5 4 7.5 5.5 6.83 5.5 6 4.83 4.5 4 4.5zm0 12c-.83 0-1.5.68-1.5 1.5s.68 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5-.68 1.5-1.5-.67-1.5-1.5-1.5zM7 19h14v-2H7v2zm0-6h14v-2H7v2zm0-8v2h14V5H7z"></path></svg><span class="font-18 ml-5">Table Of Contents</span></button><span hidden="" style="position:fixed;top:1px;left:1px;width:1px;height:0;padding:0;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;border-width:0;display:none"></span><div class="font-serif font-18 lh-lg dropCapArticle"><div class="Article_floatedHeroComponents__8_NjL"><div class="mb-10 BorderlessCard_BorderlessCard__u5tTW d-inline-block w-100 pb-0 rounded border p-10" data-testid="BorderlessCard"><div class="w-100 position-relative d-flex"><img loading="eager" src="https://cdn.britannica.com/88/269488-004-7D85B236/Long-Term-Care-Insurance-Photo-illustration-image-Elderly-couple-in-front-of-large-dice.jpg?w=385" alt="Elderly couple in front of oversize dice." width="385" data-testid="IrisImage" class="border rounded w-100"/><button class="btn btn-outline-blue-dark btn-xl btn-circle CircleIconButton_CircleIconButton__HkIE0 position-absolute bottom-10 right-10 bg-white" data-testid="CircleIconButton" type="button" aria-label="Open full size image" id="_R1ijjtsuesq"><svg stroke="currentColor" fill="currentColor" stroke-width="0" viewBox="0 0 24 24" height="1em" width="1em" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path fill="none" d="M0 0h24v24H0V0z"></path><path d="M15.5 14h-.79l-.28-.27A6.471 6.471 0 0 0 16 9.5 6.5 6.5 0 1 0 9.5 16c1.61 0 3.09-.59 4.23-1.57l.27.28v.79l5 4.99L20.49 19l-4.99-5zm-6 0C7.01 14 5 11.99 5 9.5S7.01 5 9.5 5 14 7.01 14 9.5 11.99 14 9.5 14z"></path><path d="M12 10h-2v2H9v-2H7V9h2V7h1v2h2v1z"></path></svg></button><div class="tooltip font-16" data-testid="Tooltip">Open full sized image<div data-popper-arrow="true"></div></div></div><div class="font-serif text-gray-700 mt-5 font-14 text-left">Either way, it's a bit of a gamble.</div><div class="font-serif text-gray-700 mt-5 font-12 font-italic mb-10 text-left">© Nejron Photo/stock.adobe.com, © LRafael/stock.adobe.com; Photo illustration Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc</div></div></div><section class="HTMLContent_HTMLContent__cOyPs" data-testid="HTMLContent"><span id="ref2264206-1" data-level="1" /><p>If you’re thinking about who will care for you later in life or how to <a href="/money/aging-parent-care">support an aging parent or relative</a>, long-term care insurance is one way to plan. Sometimes called elder-care insurance, these policies cover expenses that Medicare doesn’t, such as <a href="/money/senior-living-options">assisted living</a>, <a href="/topic/nursing-home">nursing home</a> care, and in-home assistance with <a href="/topic/activities-of-daily-living">daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating</a>.</p></section><section class="HTMLContent_HTMLContent__cOyPs" data-testid="HTMLContent"><p>But these policies aren’t cheap—premiums typically cost thousands of dollars annually. And like other <a href="/money/types-of-insurance">types of insurance</a>, traditional long-term care policies operate on a use-it-or-lose-it model, which is why hybrid policies have emerged. They combine long-term care coverage with a life insurance benefit that <a href="/money/estate-planning-basics">goes to your heirs</a> if you don’t use the care.</p></section><div class="card CalloutCard_CalloutCard__Uy03G my-20 font-sans-serif" data-testid="CalloutCard"><div class="card-body" data-testid="CardBody"><h2 class="font-16 font-weight-bold">Key Points</h2><div class="font-14"><ul data-listtype="UL"><li data-itemtype="LI">Medicare doesn’t cover the cost of long-term care if you need help with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, or eating.</li><li data-itemtype="LI">Traditional long-term care insurance policies may cost less over time but don’t provide a payout if you don’t use the benefits.</li><li data-itemtype="LI">Hybrid insurance policies are often more costly and may have benefit limits, but they include a life insurance payout for heirs if the coverage isn’t fully used.</li></ul></div></div></div><section class="HTMLContent_HTMLContent__cOyPs" data-testid="HTMLContent"><p>Understanding the costs and what they cover—and don’t—can help you decide whether these policies are right for you.</p><span id="ref408132" data-level="1" /><h2 class="h2">How traditional and hybrid long-term care insurance compare</h2><p>Traditional and hybrid elder-care insurance policies share some similarities. A policy’s cost depends on factors such as your age at the time of purchase, the maximum daily benefit, the number of years coverage lasts, and any optional features, such as an <a href="/money/what-is-inflation">inflation</a> rider.</p></section><div class="card CalloutCard_CalloutCard__Uy03G my-20 font-sans-serif" data-testid="CalloutCard"><div class="card-body" data-testid="CardBody"><h2 class="font-16 font-weight-bold">Just what is “elder care”?</h2><div class="font-14"><p>Elder care encompasses a broad range of services designed to help older adults with daily living, medical needs, and housing. It can include <a href="/money/senior-living-options">in-home caregiving, assisted living, nursing home care</a>, and hospice. Although <a href="/topic/Medicare-United-States-health-insurance">Medicare and Medicaid</a> cover some services, others must be paid for out of pocket or through long-term care insurance.</p><p>Although <em>elder-care insurance</em> is sometimes used colloquially, <strong>long-term care insurance</strong> is the industry standard name for policies that help pay for these services.</p></div></div></div><section class="HTMLContent_HTMLContent__cOyPs" data-testid="HTMLContent"><p>Most modern policies are comprehensive, allowing benefits to be used for nursing home care, <a href="/money/life-plan-community">assisted living facilities</a>, home health care, adult daycare services, and <a href="/science/hospice">hospice</a> care.</p><p>Whether traditional or hybrid, most of these policies have a waiting period, also called an elimination period, before benefits kick in. The waiting period is the gap between when care starts and when the policy starts paying for it. Policyholders choose the length of this period when purchasing a policy.</p><p>For example, if a policy has a 90-day waiting period and you move into an assisted-living facility today, you would be responsible for the full cost of care for the first 90 days before insurance starts paying.</p><p>Some long-term care insurance policies are tax qualified, meaning premiums may be <a href="/money/tax-credit-deduction-refund#ref354172">deductible as a medical expense</a> and benefits are generally tax free if they meet <a href="/money/Internal-Revenue-Service">Internal Revenue Service</a> (IRS) guidelines. Eligibility varies by state; check with your state insurance department to confirm whether the policy you’re considering qualifies.</p><p>Long-term care insurance isn’t right for everyone. The premiums are hefty, and if you already have difficulty <a href="/money/how-to-create-a-retirement-budget">paying for basics—such as utilities, food, or medicine</a>—programs provided by <a href="/topic/Medicare-United-States-health-insurance">Medicaid</a> and <a href="/money/social-security-government-program">Social Security</a> may be better options.</p><p>But if you have significant assets you’d rather not use to pay for long-term care and can afford the premiums, a long-term care insurance policy may be the right choice.</p><span id="ref408133" data-level="1" /><h2 class="h2">What traditional coverage includes</h2><p>Traditional long-term care insurance operates like other types of insurance: Policyholders pay regular premiums, and the policy helps cover costs when care is needed but isn’t paid for by another source—in this case, <a href="/money/what-is-medicare-how-to-enroll">Medicare</a>.</p><p>Coverage typically includes services such as <a href="/money/senior-living-options">nursing home care, assisted living, in-home care, and adult daycare</a>. Policies vary in what they cover, how long benefits last, and whether additional features (like inflation protection) are included.</p><span id="ref408134" data-level="1" /><h2 class="h2">How much traditional policies cost by age</h2><p>Traditional long-term care insurance policy premiums range widely and depend on what state you live in and your health (for starters). Women typically pay higher premiums than men because they <a href="/money/retirement-planning-for-women">tend to live longer</a> and use these services more frequently, although couples can get discounts.</p></section><div class="ArticleTable_ArticleTable__Jnc3T my-20 font-14 font-sans-serif" data-testid="ArticleTable"><table class="table"> <caption>Traditional long-term care insurance costs (2025)</caption> <thead> <tr> <th>Age</th> <th>Annual premium for single males</th> <th>Annual premium for single females</th> <th>Combined annual premium for couples (male/female)</th> </tr> </thead> <tfoot> <tr> <td colspan="4"><em><strong>Note:</strong></em><em> The initial policy benefit equals $165,000. The cheapest premium has no inflation rider, while the most expensive includes an inflation rider that grows benefits 5% annually. Source: American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, 2025, www.aaltci.org.</em></td> </tr> </tfoot> <tbody> <tr> <td>55</td> <td>$950 to $3,710</td> <td>$1,500 to $6,400</td> <td>$2,080 to $8,575 (both age 55)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>60</td> <td>$1,200 to $3,800</td> <td>$1,900 to $6,700</td> <td>$2,700 to $8,700 (both age 60)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>65</td> <td>$1,750 to $4,255</td> <td>$2,700 to $7,225</td> <td>$3,750 to $9,675 (both age 65</td> </tr> </tbody> </table></div><section class="HTMLContent_HTMLContent__cOyPs" data-testid="HTMLContent"><span id="ref408135" data-level="1" /><h2 class="h2">What to know before buying a traditional policy</h2><p>Traditional policies require medical underwriting, a process where the insurer reviews your health history and may request a medical exam to assess your risk of needing long-term care. Having a preexisting condition doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but some policies may delay coverage related to the health issue during an initial waiting period.</p><p>Traditional long-term care policies typically build no <a href="/money/cash-value-life-insurance#ref403176">cash value</a>, unlike <a href="/money/life-insurance-types">whole life insurance</a>, which accumulates value over time. And like other forms of insurance, traditional policies are use it or lose it: If you never need long-term care, you receive no benefit.</p><p>Premiums can increase over time. If you can no longer afford the premiums, you risk losing the money you’ve already paid in, although some insurers may allow the return of some of your money. Premiums may rise for several reasons, including climbing health care costs and changes to the insurer’s pricing structure.</p><span id="ref408136" data-level="1" /><h2 class="h2">What hybrid coverage includes</h2><p>Hybrid long-term care insurance was created for consumers who want coverage but worry about paying for a policy they may never use. These policies combine long-term care insurance with <a href="/money/how-does-life-insurance-work">life insurance</a> or an <a href="/money/what-is-annuity">annuity</a>.</p><p>If the policyholder doesn’t use the benefits, or uses only part of them, their heirs receive a death benefit. But that flexibility comes at a price—premiums for hybrid policies are more expensive than those for traditional policies.</p><p>As you use the hybrid policy to cover care costs, the available death benefit usually decreases—often dollar for dollar—although it can vary by policy.</p><span id="ref408137" data-level="1" /><h2 class="h2">How much hybrid policies cost by age</h2><p>Comparing the cost of hybrid policies to traditional ones is difficult because prices vary widely based on the features offered and the insurance company selling them. Still, some factors consistently affect pricing, such as your state of residence and your health.</p></section><div class="ArticleTable_ArticleTable__Jnc3T my-20 font-14 font-sans-serif" data-testid="ArticleTable"><table class="table"> <caption>Hybrid long-term care insurance costs with traditional policy comparison (2025)</caption> <thead> <tr> <th>Policy type and inflation growth</th> <th>Traditional policy:  Annual premium (and coverage details)</th> <th>Hybrid policy: Annual premium (and coverage details)</th> <th>Hybrid policy: Lump sum premium (and coverage details)</th> </tr> </thead> <tfoot> <tr> <td colspan="4"><em><strong>Note:</strong> Hybrid policy costs reflect averages for single adults age 55 and are based on pricing from two companies. Death benefits shown reflect the maximum available if no long-term care benefits are used and are typically reduced as long-term care benefits are paid. Source: American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, 2025, www.aaltci.org.</em></td> </tr> </tfoot> <tbody> <tr> <td>Single male, age 55, no inflation growth policy</td> <td>$900 (includes $165,000 in long-term care benefits, no death benefit)</td> <td>$3,540 (includes $180,000 in long-term care benefits or $120,000 death benefit)</td> <td>$52,753 (includes $180,000 in long-term care benefits or $120,000 death benefit)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Single female, age 55, no inflation growth policy</td> <td>$1,500 (includes $165,000 in long-term care benefits, no death benefit)</td> <td>$3,265 (includes $180,000 in long-term care benefits or $120,000 death benefit)</td> <td>$54,022 (includes $180,000 in long-term care benefits or $120,000 death benefit)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Single male, age 55, 3% annual inflation growth policy</td> <td>$2,100 (includes $464,300 in long-term care benefits at age 90, no death benefit)</td> <td>$5,025 (includes $521,850 in long-term care benefits at age 90 or $181,000 death benefit that grows over time)</td> <td>$71,700 (includes $521,850 in long-term care benefits at age 90 or $120,000 death benefit)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Single female, age 55, 3% annual inflation growth policy</td> <td>$3,600 (includes $464,300 in long-term care benefits at age 90, no death benefit)</td> <td>$5,975 (includes $521,850 in long-term care benefits at age 90 or $215,000 death  benefit that grows over time)</td> <td>$76,740 (includes $521,850 in long-term care benefits at age 90 or $120,000 death benefit)</td> </tr> </tbody> </table></div><section class="HTMLContent_HTMLContent__cOyPs" data-testid="HTMLContent"><span id="ref408138" data-level="1" /><h2 class="h2">What to know before buying a hybrid policy</h2><p>The application process for hybrid policies is similar to traditional long-term care insurance. A medical exam may not be required, but you may have to answer health questions and provide medical records. Preexisting conditions may not be covered or could result in higher costs.</p><p>Many hybrid plans can be purchased with a lump sum or through installments over a set period, which helps limit future premium increases. Unlike traditional policies, hybrid plans <a href="/money/cash-value-life-insurance">build cash value over time</a>. How much depends on the policy, but the growth is modest—typically 1% to 3% yearly.</p></section><div class="card CalloutCard_CalloutCard__Uy03G my-20 font-sans-serif" data-testid="CalloutCard"><div class="card-body" data-testid="CardBody"><h2 class="font-16 font-weight-bold">Alternatives to long-term care insurance</h2><div class="font-14"><p>Long-term care insurance isn’t the only way to prepare for future care costs. Some other strategies include:</p><ul data-listtype="UL"><li data-itemtype="LI"><strong><a href="/money/health-savings-account">Health savings accounts</a> (HSAs).</strong> If you have an HSA (which requires a high-deductible health plan), it can be a tax-free way to save for future long-term care costs. The funds are yours to use in retirement for qualified long-term care expenses, even if you stopped adding to the account years earlier.</li><li data-itemtype="LI"><strong><a href="/money/annuity-riders">Annuities with long-term care riders</a>.</strong> Some annuities offer optional features that provide extra funds if you need long-term care.</li><li data-itemtype="LI"><strong><a href="/money/setting-up-emergency-fund">Personal savings</a>.</strong> Setting money aside specifically for care costs can give you flexibility, although it requires <a href="/money/what-is-the-50-30-20-rule">disciplined saving</a> and may not be enough if your care needs end up being extensive.</li><li data-itemtype="LI"><strong><a href="/money/home-equity-loan-heloc-second-mortgage">Home equity</a>.</strong> Selling your home, refinancing it, or <a href="/money/reverse-mortgage">getting a reverse mortgage </a>can help cover care costs, but variables such as market conditions and fees can reduce the amount you receive.</li></ul><p>These options aren’t for everyone, but they may help cover costs if long-term care insurance isn’t the right fit for you.</p></div></div></div><section class="HTMLContent_HTMLContent__cOyPs" data-testid="HTMLContent"><p>Whether a hybrid policy is worth the costs depends on your <a href="/money/estate-planning-checklist">estate planning priorities</a>.  If you’re looking for long-term care coverage with the added benefit of <a href="/money/leaving-a-legacy">leaving money to your heirs</a>, a hybrid policy might make sense.</p><span id="ref408139" data-level="1" /><h2 class="h2">The bottom line</h2><p>For some, long-term care insurance is about peace of mind—knowing they’ll have help when they need it. Others see it as a way to protect their savings from long-term care costs and avoid having to rely on Medicaid, which covers long-term care only after most personal assets have been depleted.</p><p><a href="/money/how-does-insurance-work">When shopping for a policy</a>, consider working with a <a href="/money/financial-advisor-types">financial planner</a> or insurance agent to explore your options. Compare quotes from multiple insurers and review each company’s financial strength and ratings. Your state’s insurance department can provide a list of approved insurers and information on partnership programs, which link private long-term care policies with Medicaid. Some <a href="/money/fringe-benefit">employers also offer long-term care insurance</a>, often at discounted group rates.</p></section><section class="HTMLContent_HTMLContent__cOyPs" data-testid="HTMLContent"><h2 class="h2">References</h2><span id="ref2264206-references"/></section><section class="HTMLContent_HTMLContent__cOyPs" data-testid="HTMLContent"><ul data-listtype="UL"><li data-itemtype="LI"><a class="external" target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://acl.gov/ltc/costs-and-who-pays/what-is-long-term-care-insurance/where-to-look-for-long-term-care-insurance">Where to Look for Long-term Care Insurance</a> | acl.gov</li><li data-itemtype="LI">[PDF] <a class="external" target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://content.naic.org/sites/default/files/publication-ltc-lp-shoppers-guide-long-term.pdf">A Shopper’s Guide to Long-Term Care Insurance</a> | naic.org</li></ul></section></div></div><aside class="d-none d-lg-block cm-right-rail col-da-320 z-1" 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Traders use technical analysis, buy and sell on margin, and look to capture price inefficiencies.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdOutlineToll\",\"color\":\"violet-strong\"},\"slug\":\"Trading\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Trading\"},\"subcategories\":[{\"id\":13401,\"parentId\":13400,\"title\":\"Crypto \u0026 Foreign Exchange\",\"description\":\"Active trading in foreign exchange (“forex”) has been around for decades, while cryptocurrencies are relative newcomers. Both track the relative value of currencies or cryptocurrencies: dollars, euro, yen, and pounds as well as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and Dogecoin.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdOutlineToll\",\"color\":\"violet-strong\"},\"slug\":\"Crypto-Foreign-Exchange\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Crypto-Foreign-Exchange\"},{\"id\":13402,\"parentId\":13400,\"title\":\"Futures \u0026 Margin Trading\",\"description\":\"Futures contracts allow traders and investors to speculate on the direction of—and hedge underlying positions in—stock indexes, interest rates, commodities, precious metals, and more.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdOutlineToll\",\"color\":\"violet-strong\"},\"slug\":\"Futures-Margin-Trading\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Futures-Margin-Trading\"},{\"id\":13403,\"parentId\":13400,\"title\":\"Options Trading\",\"description\":\"Options are derivative contracts that give the buyer the right to buy or sell a security at a specific price. 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\"}}],[\"$\",\"$L18\",null,{\"id\":\"adobe-target-config\",\"dangerouslySetInnerHTML\":{\"__html\":\"\\n //disables body hiding to prevent blank page flicker issue\\n window.targetGlobalSettings = {\\n bodyHidingEnabled: false,\\n };\\n \"}}],[\"$\",\"$L18\",null,{\"id\":\"adobe-target\",\"src\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/money/scripts/at.js\"}]]}]]}]]}]\n"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"c:[[\"$\",\"meta\",\"0\",{\"name\":\"viewport\",\"content\":\"width=device-width, initial-scale=1\"}],[\"$\",\"meta\",\"1\",{\"charSet\":\"utf-8\"}],[\"$\",\"title\",\"2\",{\"children\":\"Cost of Long-Term Care Insurance | Britannica Money\"}],[\"$\",\"meta\",\"3\",{\"name\":\"description\",\"content\":\"Traditional long-term care insurance policies cost less over time, while hybrid policies often cost more but include a payout if the coverage isn’t fully 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modern policies are comprehensive, allowing benefits to be used for nursing home care, \u003ca href=\"/money/life-plan-community\"\u003eassisted living facilities\u003c/a\u003e, home health care, adult daycare services, and \u003ca href=\"/science/hospice\"\u003ehospice\u003c/a\u003e care.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-7]--\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhether traditional or hybrid, most of these policies have a waiting period, also called an elimination period, before benefits kick in. The waiting period is the gap between when care starts and when the policy starts paying for it. Policyholders choose the length of this period when purchasing a policy.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-8]--\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor example, if a policy has a 90-day waiting period and you move into an assisted-living facility today, you would be responsible for the full cost of care for the first 90 days before insurance starts paying.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-9]--\u003e\u003cp\u003eSome long-term care insurance policies are tax qualified, meaning premiums may be \u003ca href=\"/money/tax-credit-deduction-refund#ref354172\"\u003edeductible as a medical expense\u003c/a\u003e and benefits are generally tax free if they meet \u003ca href=\"/money/Internal-Revenue-Service\"\u003eInternal Revenue Service\u003c/a\u003e (IRS) guidelines. Eligibility varies by state; check with your state insurance department to confirm whether the policy you’re considering qualifies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-10]--\u003e\u003cp\u003eLong-term care insurance isn’t right for everyone. The premiums are hefty, and if you already have difficulty \u003ca href=\"/money/how-to-create-a-retirement-budget\"\u003epaying for basics—such as utilities, food, or medicine\u003c/a\u003e—programs provided by \u003ca href=\"/topic/Medicare-United-States-health-insurance\"\u003eMedicaid\u003c/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"/money/social-security-government-program\"\u003eSocial Security\u003c/a\u003e may be better options.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-11]--\u003e\u003cp\u003eBut if you have significant assets you’d rather not use to pay for long-term care and can afford the premiums, a long-term care insurance policy may be the right choice.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-12]--\u003e\u003cspan id=\"ref408133\" data-level=\"1\" /\u003e\u003ch2 class=\"h2\"\u003eWhat traditional coverage includes\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eTraditional long-term care insurance operates like other types of insurance: Policyholders pay regular premiums, and the policy helps cover costs when care is needed but isn’t paid for by another source—in this case, \u003ca href=\"/money/what-is-medicare-how-to-enroll\"\u003eMedicare\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-13]--\u003e\u003cp\u003eCoverage typically includes services such as \u003ca href=\"/money/senior-living-options\"\u003enursing home care, assisted living, in-home care, and adult daycare\u003c/a\u003e. Policies vary in what they cover, how long benefits last, and whether additional features (like inflation protection) are included.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-14]--\u003e\u003cspan id=\"ref408134\" data-level=\"1\" /\u003e\u003ch2 class=\"h2\"\u003eHow much traditional policies cost by age\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eTraditional long-term care insurance policy premiums range widely and depend on what state you live in and your health (for starters). Women typically pay higher premiums than men because they \u003ca href=\"/money/retirement-planning-for-women\"\u003etend to live longer\u003c/a\u003e and use these services more frequently, although couples can get discounts.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-15]--\u003e"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"1b:T976,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"\u003cspan id=\"ref408135\" data-level=\"1\" /\u003e\u003ch2 class=\"h2\"\u003eWhat to know before buying a traditional policy\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eTraditional policies require medical underwriting, a process where the insurer reviews your health history and may request a medical exam to assess your risk of needing long-term care. Having a preexisting condition doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but some policies may delay coverage related to the health issue during an initial waiting period.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-16]--\u003e\u003cp\u003eTraditional long-term care policies typically build no \u003ca href=\"/money/cash-value-life-insurance#ref403176\"\u003ecash value\u003c/a\u003e, unlike \u003ca href=\"/money/life-insurance-types\"\u003ewhole life insurance\u003c/a\u003e, which accumulates value over time. And like other forms of insurance, traditional policies are use it or lose it: If you never need long-term care, you receive no benefit.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-17]--\u003e\u003cp\u003ePremiums can increase over time. If you can no longer afford the premiums, you risk losing the money you’ve already paid in, although some insurers may allow the return of some of your money. Premiums may rise for several reasons, including climbing health care costs and changes to the insurer’s pricing structure.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-18]--\u003e\u003cspan id=\"ref408136\" data-level=\"1\" /\u003e\u003ch2 class=\"h2\"\u003eWhat hybrid coverage includes\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eHybrid long-term care insurance was created for consumers who want coverage but worry about paying for a policy they may never use. These policies combine long-term care insurance with \u003ca href=\"/money/how-does-life-insurance-work\"\u003elife insurance\u003c/a\u003e or an \u003ca href=\"/money/what-is-annuity\"\u003eannuity\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-19]--\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf the policyholder doesn’t use the benefits, or uses only part of them, their heirs receive a death benefit. But that flexibility comes at a price—premiums for hybrid policies are more expensive than those for traditional policies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-20]--\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs you use the hybrid policy to cover care costs, the available death benefit usually decreases—often dollar for dollar—although it can vary by policy.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-21]--\u003e\u003cspan id=\"ref408137\" data-level=\"1\" /\u003e\u003ch2 class=\"h2\"\u003eHow much hybrid policies cost by age\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eComparing the cost of hybrid policies to traditional ones is difficult because prices vary widely based on the features offered and the insurance company selling them. Still, some factors consistently affect pricing, such as your state of residence and your health.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-22]--\u003e"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"1c:T8e1,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"\u003ctable class=\"table\"\u003e \u003ccaption\u003eHybrid long-term care insurance costs with traditional policy comparison (2025)\u003c/caption\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth\u003ePolicy type and inflation growth\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth\u003eTraditional policy:\u0026#xa0; Annual premium (and coverage details)\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth\u003eHybrid policy: Annual premium (and coverage details)\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth\u003eHybrid policy: Lump sum premium (and coverage details)\u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote:\u003c/strong\u003e Hybrid policy costs reflect averages for single adults age 55 and are based on pricing from two companies. Death benefits shown reflect the maximum available if no long-term care benefits are used and are typically reduced as long-term care benefits are paid. Source: American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, 2025, www.aaltci.org.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd\u003eSingle male, age 55, no inflation growth policy\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$900 (includes $165,000 in long-term care benefits, no death benefit)\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$3,540 (includes $180,000 in long-term care benefits or $120,000 death benefit)\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$52,753 (includes $180,000 in long-term care benefits or $120,000 death benefit)\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd\u003eSingle female, age 55, no inflation growth policy\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$1,500 (includes $165,000 in long-term care benefits, no death benefit)\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$3,265 (includes $180,000 in long-term care benefits or $120,000 death benefit)\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$54,022 (includes $180,000 in long-term care benefits or $120,000 death benefit)\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd\u003eSingle male, age 55, 3% annual inflation growth policy\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$2,100 (includes $464,300 in long-term care benefits at age 90, no death benefit)\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$5,025 (includes $521,850 in long-term care benefits at age 90 or $181,000 death benefit that grows over time)\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$71,700 (includes $521,850 in long-term care benefits at age 90 or $120,000 death benefit)\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd\u003eSingle female, age 55, 3% annual inflation growth policy\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$3,600 (includes $464,300 in long-term care benefits at age 90, no death benefit)\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$5,975 (includes $521,850 in long-term care benefits at age 90 or $215,000 death\u0026#xa0; benefit that grows over time)\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$76,740 (includes $521,850 in long-term care benefits at age 90 or $120,000 death benefit)\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/table\u003e"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"1d:T607,\u003cp\u003eLong-term care insurance isn’t the only way to prepare for future care costs. Some other strategies include:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cul data-listtype=\"UL\"\u003e\u003cli data-itemtype=\"LI\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"/money/health-savings-account\"\u003eHealth savings accounts\u003c/a\u003e (HSAs).\u003c/strong\u003e If you have an HSA (which requires a high-deductible health plan), it can be a tax-free way to save for future long-term care costs. The funds are yours to use in retirement for qualified long-term care expenses, even if you stopped adding to the account years earlier.\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli data-itemtype=\"LI\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"/money/annuity-riders\"\u003eAnnuities with long-term care riders\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/strong\u003e Some annuities offer optional features that provide extra funds if you need long-term care.\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli data-itemtype=\"LI\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"/money/setting-up-emergency-fund\"\u003ePersonal savings\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/strong\u003e Setting money aside specifically for care costs can give you flexibility, although it requires \u003ca href=\"/money/what-is-the-50-30-20-rule\"\u003edisciplined saving\u003c/a\u003e and may not be enough if your care needs end up being extensive.\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli data-itemtype=\"LI\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"/money/home-equity-loan-heloc-second-mortgage\"\u003eHome equity\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/strong\u003e Selling your home, refinancing it, or \u003ca href=\"/money/reverse-mortgage\"\u003egetting a reverse mortgage \u003c/a\u003ecan help cover care costs, but variables such as market conditions and fees can reduce the amount you receive.\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese options aren’t for everyone, but they may help cover costs if long-term care insurance isn’t the right fit for you.\u003c/p\u003e1e:T53e,\u003cp\u003eWhether a hybrid policy is worth the costs depends on your \u003ca href=\"/money/estate-planning-checklist\"\u003eestate planning priorities\u003c/a\u003e.\u0026#xa0; If you’re looking for long-term care coverage with the added benefit of \u003ca href=\"/money/leaving-a-legacy\"\u003eleaving money to your heirs\u003c/a\u003e, a hybrid policy might make sense.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-27]--\u003e\u003cspan id=\"ref408139\" data-level=\"1\" /\u003e\u003ch2 class=\"h2\"\u003eThe bottom line\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor some, long-term care insurance is about peace of mind—knowing they’ll h"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"ave help when they need it. Others see it as a way to protect their savings from long-term care costs and avoid having to rely on Medicaid, which covers long-term care only after most personal assets have been depleted.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-28]--\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"/money/how-does-insurance-work\"\u003eWhen shopping for a policy\u003c/a\u003e, consider working with a \u003ca href=\"/money/financial-advisor-types\"\u003efinancial planner\u003c/a\u003e or insurance agent to explore your options. Compare quotes from multiple insurers and review each company’s financial strength and ratings. Your state’s insurance department can provide a list of approved insurers and information on partnership programs, which link private long-term care policies with Medicaid. Some \u003ca href=\"/money/fringe-benefit\"\u003eemployers also offer long-term care insurance\u003c/a\u003e, often at discounted group rates.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-29]--\u003e"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"7:[\"$\",\"$L19\",null,{\"initialArticle\":{\"contentInfo\":{\"contentId\":\"1-2264206-1\",\"browserTitle\":\"Cost of Long-Term Care Insurance\",\"metaDescription\":\"Traditional long-term care insurance policies cost less over time, while hybrid policies often cost more but include a payout if the coverage isn’t fully used.\",\"description\":\"If you’re thinking about who will care for you later in life or how to support an aging parent or relative, long-term care insurance is one way to plan. Sometimes called elder-care insurance, these policies cover expenses that Medicare doesn’t, such as assisted living, nursing home care, and\",\"lastUpdated\":{\"utcms\":1741616223000,\"ms\":1741616223000,\"formattedDateTime\":\"Mar. 10, 2025, 10:17 AM ET\",\"formattedLongDate\":\"March 10, 2025\",\"formattedShortDate\":\"Mar. 10, 2025\",\"formattedUTCDateTime\":\"Mar. 10, 2025, 2:17 PM UTC\"},\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost\",\"alternateTitles\":null,\"image\":{\"type\":\"IMAGE\",\"description\":\"PHOTO\",\"id\":330566,\"title\":\"Do you need long-term care insurance?\",\"caption\":\"Either way, it's a bit of a gamble.\",\"credit\":\"© Nejron Photo/stock.adobe.com, © LRafael/stock.adobe.com; Photo illustration Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc\",\"url\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/88/269488-004-7D85B236/Long-Term-Care-Insurance-Photo-illustration-image-Elderly-couple-in-front-of-large-dice.jpg\",\"width\":550,\"height\":309,\"altText\":\"Elderly couple in front of oversize dice.\"},\"title\":\"Long-term care insurance costs, from traditional to hybrid policies\",\"titleText\":\"Long-term care insurance costs, from traditional to hybrid policies\",\"identifier\":null,\"subTitle\":\"Weighing pricey premiums against future care expenses.\",\"type\":\"OTHER\",\"slug\":\"long-term-care-insurance-cost\",\"authors\":[{\"id\":12818145,\"title\":\"Debbie Carlson\",\"url\":\"/money/author/debbie-carlson/12818145\",\"description\":\"\u003cspan style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\"\u003eDebbie Carlson is a veteran financial journalist who writes about many personal finance and financial industry topics such as retirement, consumer spending, sustainable and ESG investing, commodity markets, exchanged-traded funds, mutual funds and much more, in an easy-to-understand way. Debbie writes for many high-level and top-tier media organizations and has contributed to Barron's, Chicago Tribune, The Guardian, MarketWatch, The Wall Street Journal, and U.S. News \u0026amp; World Report, among other publications. She holds a BA in Journalism from Eastern Illinois University.\u003c/span\u003e\",\"noFollow\":false,\"newTab\":false}],\"factCheckers\":[{\"id\":12995277,\"title\":\"David Schepp\",\"url\":\"/money/author/david-schepp/12995277\",\"description\":\"David Schepp is a veteran financial journalist with more than two decades of experience in financial news editing and reporting for print, digital, and multimedia publications.\",\"noFollow\":false,\"newTab\":false}],\"category\":{\"id\":13205,\"parentId\":13200,\"title\":\"Retirement Planning\",\"description\":\"Are you expecting a long and comfortable retirement? Plan ahead. Will your savings and income streams support all your dreams for your golden years? And do you have contingency plans in case things change? Learn how to plan and strategize for retirement.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdSavings\",\"color\":\"green\"},\"slug\":\"Retirement-Planning\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Retirement-Planning\"},\"keywords\":\"Long-term care insurance costs, from traditional to hybrid policies, encyclopedia, encyclopeadia, britannica, article\",\"breadcrumb\":[{\"id\":13000,\"parentId\":null,\"title\":\"Money\",\"description\":null,\"imageUrl\":null,\"categoryIcon\":null,\"slug\":\"Money\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Money\"},{\"id\":13200,\"parentId\":13000,\"title\":\"Retirement\",\"description\":\"We all dream of a comfortable retirement. Learn all about the various retirement savings accounts and how to maximize them. Careful planning of your retirement income, budget, and lifestyle can help make sure you don't outlive your money.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdSavings\",\"color\":\"green\"},\"slug\":\"retirement\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/retirement\"},{\"id\":13205,\"parentId\":13200,\"title\":\"Retirement Planning\",\"description\":\"Are you expecting a long and comfortable retirement? Plan ahead. Will your savings and income streams support all your dreams for your golden years? And do you have contingency plans in case things change? Learn how to plan and strategize for retirement.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdSavings\",\"color\":\"green\"},\"slug\":\"Retirement-Planning\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Retirement-Planning\"}],\"recentContent\":true},\"pageInfo\":{\"pageNumber\":1,\"title\":\"Long-term care insurance costs, from traditional to hybrid policies\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost\",\"browserTitle\":\"Cost of Long-Term Care Insurance\",\"metaDescription\":\"Traditional long-term care insurance policies cost less over time, while hybrid policies often cost more but include a payout if the coverage isn’t fully used.\"},\"pageComponents\":[{\"type\":\"HTML\",\"content\":\"\u003cspan id=\\\"ref2264206-1\\\" data-level=\\\"1\\\" /\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf you’re thinking about who will care for you later in life or how to \u003ca href=\\\"/money/aging-parent-care\\\"\u003esupport an aging parent or relative\u003c/a\u003e, long-term care insurance is one way to plan. Sometimes called elder-care insurance, these policies cover expenses that Medicare doesn’t, such as \u003ca href=\\\"/money/senior-living-options\\\"\u003eassisted living\u003c/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\\\"/topic/nursing-home\\\"\u003enursing home\u003c/a\u003e care, and in-home assistance with \u003ca href=\\\"/topic/activities-of-daily-living\\\"\u003edaily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-1]--\u003e\"},{\"type\":\"HTML\",\"content\":\"\u003cp\u003eBut these policies aren’t cheap—premiums typically cost thousands of dollars annually. And like other \u003ca href=\\\"/money/types-of-insurance\\\"\u003etypes of insurance\u003c/a\u003e, traditional long-term care policies operate on a use-it-or-lose-it model, which is why hybrid policies have emerged. They combine long-term care coverage with a life insurance benefit that \u003ca href=\\\"/money/estate-planning-basics\\\"\u003egoes to your heirs\u003c/a\u003e if you don’t use the care.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-2]--\u003e\"},{\"type\":\"SIDEBAR\",\"title\":\"Key Points\",\"content\":\"\u003cul data-listtype=\\\"UL\\\"\u003e\u003cli data-itemtype=\\\"LI\\\"\u003eMedicare doesn’t cover the cost of long-term care if you need help with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, or eating.\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli data-itemtype=\\\"LI\\\"\u003eTraditional long-term care insurance policies may cost less over time but don’t provide a payout if you don’t use the benefits.\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli data-itemtype=\\\"LI\\\"\u003eHybrid insurance policies are often more costly and may have benefit limits, but they include a life insurance payout for heirs if the coverage isn’t fully used.\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\",\"sidebarType\":\"CALLOUT\",\"pdfPath\":null},{\"type\":\"HTML\",\"content\":\"\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding the costs and what they cover—and don’t—can help you decide whether these policies are right for you.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-3]--\u003e\u003cspan id=\\\"ref408132\\\" data-level=\\\"1\\\" /\u003e\u003ch2 class=\\\"h2\\\"\u003eHow traditional and hybrid long-term care insurance compare\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eTraditional and hybrid elder-care insurance policies share some similarities. A policy’s cost depends on factors such as your age at the time of purchase, the maximum daily benefit, the number of years coverage lasts, and any optional features, such as an \u003ca href=\\\"/money/what-is-inflation\\\"\u003einflation\u003c/a\u003e rider.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-4]--\u003e\"},{\"type\":\"SIDEBAR\",\"title\":\"Just what is “elder care”?\",\"content\":\"\u003cp\u003eElder care encompasses a broad range of services designed to help older adults with daily living, medical needs, and housing. It can include \u003ca href=\\\"/money/senior-living-options\\\"\u003ein-home caregiving, assisted living, nursing home care\u003c/a\u003e, and hospice. Although \u003ca href=\\\"/topic/Medicare-United-States-health-insurance\\\"\u003eMedicare and Medicaid\u003c/a\u003e cover some services, others must be paid for out of pocket or through long-term care insurance.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlthough \u003cem\u003eelder-care insurance\u003c/em\u003e is sometimes used colloquially, \u003cstrong\u003elong-term care insurance\u003c/strong\u003e is the industry standard name for policies that help pay for these services.\u003c/p\u003e\",\"sidebarType\":\"CALLOUT\",\"pdfPath\":null},{\"type\":\"HTML\",\"content\":\"$1a\"},{\"type\":\"ARTICLE_TABLE\",\"content\":\"\u003ctable class=\\\"table\\\"\u003e \u003ccaption\u003eTraditional long-term care insurance costs (2025)\u003c/caption\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth\u003eAge\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth\u003eAnnual premium for single males\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth\u003eAnnual premium for single females\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth\u003eCombined annual premium for couples (male/female)\u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd colspan=\\\"4\\\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e The initial policy benefit equals $165,000. The cheapest premium has no inflation rider, while the most expensive includes an inflation rider that grows benefits 5% annually. Source: American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, 2025, www.aaltci.org.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd\u003e55\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$950 to $3,710\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$1,500 to $6,400\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$2,080 to $8,575 (both age 55)\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd\u003e60\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$1,200 to $3,800\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$1,900 to $6,700\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$2,700 to $8,700 (both age 60)\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd\u003e65\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$1,750 to $4,255\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$2,700 to $7,225\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd\u003e$3,750 to $9,675 (both age 65\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\",\"tableType\":\"XML\",\"image\":null},{\"type\":\"HTML\",\"content\":\"$1b\"},{\"type\":\"ARTICLE_TABLE\",\"content\":\"$1c\",\"tableType\":\"XML\",\"image\":null},{\"type\":\"HTML\",\"content\":\"\u003cspan id=\\\"ref408138\\\" data-level=\\\"1\\\" /\u003e\u003ch2 class=\\\"h2\\\"\u003eWhat to know before buying a hybrid policy\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe application process for hybrid policies is similar to traditional long-term care insurance. A medical exam may not be required, but you may have to answer health questions and provide medical records. Preexisting conditions may not be covered or could result in higher costs.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-23]--\u003e\u003cp\u003eMany hybrid plans can be purchased with a lump sum or through installments over a set period, which helps limit future premium increases. Unlike traditional policies, hybrid plans \u003ca href=\\\"/money/cash-value-life-insurance\\\"\u003ebuild cash value over time\u003c/a\u003e. How much depends on the policy, but the growth is modest—typically 1% to 3% yearly.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c!--[P-24]--\u003e\"},{\"type\":\"SIDEBAR\",\"title\":\"Alternatives to long-term care insurance\",\"content\":\"$1d\",\"sidebarType\":\"CALLOUT\",\"pdfPath\":null},{\"type\":\"HTML\",\"content\":\"$1e\"},{\"type\":\"HTML\",\"content\":\"\u003ch2 class=\\\"h2\\\"\u003eReferences\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cspan id=\\\"ref2264206-references\\\"/\u003e\"},{\"type\":\"HTML\",\"content\":\"\u003cul data-listtype=\\\"UL\\\"\u003e\u003cli data-itemtype=\\\"LI\\\"\u003e\u003ca class=\\\"external\\\" target=\\\"_blank\\\" rel=\\\"noopener\\\" href=\\\"https://acl.gov/ltc/costs-and-who-pays/what-is-long-term-care-insurance/where-to-look-for-long-term-care-insurance\\\"\u003eWhere to Look for Long-term Care Insurance\u003c/a\u003e | acl.gov\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli data-itemtype=\\\"LI\\\"\u003e[PDF] \u003ca class=\\\"external\\\" target=\\\"_blank\\\" rel=\\\"noopener\\\" href=\\\"https://content.naic.org/sites/default/files/publication-ltc-lp-shoppers-guide-long-term.pdf\\\"\u003eA Shopper’s Guide to Long-Term Care Insurance\u003c/a\u003e | naic.org\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\"}],\"tocItems\":[{\"title\":\"Introduction\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost\",\"tocId\":\"2264206-1\",\"level\":1,\"subSection\":[]},{\"title\":\"How traditional and hybrid long-term care insurance compare\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408132\",\"tocId\":\"408132\",\"level\":1,\"subSection\":[]},{\"title\":\"What traditional coverage includes\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408133\",\"tocId\":\"408133\",\"level\":1,\"subSection\":[]},{\"title\":\"How much traditional policies cost by age\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408134\",\"tocId\":\"408134\",\"level\":1,\"subSection\":[]},{\"title\":\"What to know before buying a traditional policy\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408135\",\"tocId\":\"408135\",\"level\":1,\"subSection\":[]},{\"title\":\"What hybrid coverage includes\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408136\",\"tocId\":\"408136\",\"level\":1,\"subSection\":[]},{\"title\":\"How much hybrid policies cost by age\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408137\",\"tocId\":\"408137\",\"level\":1,\"subSection\":[]},{\"title\":\"What to know before buying a hybrid policy\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408138\",\"tocId\":\"408138\",\"level\":1,\"subSection\":[]},{\"title\":\"The bottom line\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref408139\",\"tocId\":\"408139\",\"level\":1,\"subSection\":[]},{\"title\":\"References\",\"url\":\"/money/long-term-care-insurance-cost#ref2264206-references\",\"tocId\":\"2264206-references\",\"level\":1,\"subSection\":[]}],\"iguideLinks\":null,\"pageIds\":null,\"contentIds\":[\"1-2234990-1\",\"1-2235011-1\",\"1-2263188-1\",\"1-2234988-1\",\"1-2235033-1\",\"1-2234984-1\",\"1-2235013-1\",\"1-2238360-1\",\"1-2235024-1\",\"1-2257244-1\"],\"relatedContents\":[{\"title\":\"What is a reverse mortgage, and should I consider one?\",\"url\":\"/money/reverse-mortgage\",\"description\":\"Reverse mortgage. If you watch daytime TV, you’ve probably seen the sales pitch. A celebrity spokesperson tells you how a reverse mortgage can put cash in your pocket, help you cover expenses, and let you stay in your home. But like anything that sounds too good to be true, for every advantage,\",\"image\":{\"type\":\"IMAGE\",\"description\":\"PHOTO\",\"id\":null,\"title\":null,\"caption\":null,\"credit\":\"© MoMo Productions—DigitalVision/Getty Images\",\"url\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/62/235562-050-ACABD272/Portrait-of-senior-husband-and-wife-in-front-of-suburban-home.jpg\",\"width\":null,\"height\":null,\"altText\":\"Portrait of senior husband and wife in front of suburban home\"},\"contentId\":\"1-2235021-1\",\"subTitle\":\"Understand the pros and cons.\",\"category\":{\"id\":13205,\"parentId\":13200,\"title\":\"Retirement Planning\",\"description\":\"Are you expecting a long and comfortable retirement? Plan ahead. Will your savings and income streams support all your dreams for your golden years? And do you have contingency plans in case things change? Learn how to plan and strategize for retirement.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdSavings\",\"color\":\"green\"},\"slug\":\"Retirement-Planning\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Retirement-Planning\"}},{\"title\":\"What is a target-date fund?\",\"url\":\"/money/target-date-fund\",\"description\":\"Target-date funds, also known as life-cycle funds, are a popular mutual fund type for retirement plans such as 401(k)s and IRAs. But they can also be used to save for a wide array of goals with a specific target date, such as a child’s college tuition. Key Points Target Date FundsIs your investing\",\"image\":{\"type\":\"IMAGE\",\"description\":\"PHOTO\",\"id\":null,\"title\":null,\"caption\":null,\"credit\":\"Catherine Ivill/Getty Images\",\"url\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/05/234705-050-FFEDC382/St-George-Cross-Darts-dartboard-2021-in-Burton-upon-Trent-England.jpg\",\"width\":null,\"height\":null,\"altText\":\"Darts on a dartboard\"},\"contentId\":\"1-2235023-1\",\"subTitle\":\"Pinpoint your investing strategy around a deadline.\",\"category\":{\"id\":13205,\"parentId\":13200,\"title\":\"Retirement Planning\",\"description\":\"Are you expecting a long and comfortable retirement? Plan ahead. Will your savings and income streams support all your dreams for your golden years? And do you have contingency plans in case things change? Learn how to plan and strategize for retirement.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdSavings\",\"color\":\"green\"},\"slug\":\"Retirement-Planning\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Retirement-Planning\"}},{\"title\":\"End of life planning: Cremation vs. burial, choosing a nursing home, and more\",\"url\":\"/money/end-of-life-planning-guide\",\"description\":\"End-of-life planning can make other difficult discussions—such as mapping out money and spending with your partner—seem like a walk in the park, especially if you’re trying to help your parents or older family members detail their last wishes. No one wants to think about death. But it’s part of\",\"image\":{\"type\":\"IMAGE\",\"description\":\"PHOTO\",\"id\":null,\"title\":null,\"caption\":null,\"credit\":\"© Mangostar/stock.adobe.com\",\"url\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/16/238516-050-22D05D35/Serious-elderly-woman-and-her-daughter-talking-and-holding-hands.jpg\",\"width\":null,\"height\":null,\"altText\":\"A photo of a serious elderly woman and her daughter talking and holding hands.\"},\"contentId\":\"1-2235000-1\",\"subTitle\":\"Is there any topic that’s less fun to discuss?\",\"category\":{\"id\":13205,\"parentId\":13200,\"title\":\"Retirement Planning\",\"description\":\"Are you expecting a long and comfortable retirement? Plan ahead. Will your savings and income streams support all your dreams for your golden years? And do you have contingency plans in case things change? Learn how to plan and strategize for retirement.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdSavings\",\"color\":\"green\"},\"slug\":\"Retirement-Planning\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Retirement-Planning\"}},{\"title\":\"Retirement savings by age: Are you on track?\",\"url\":\"/money/on-track-retirement-savings\",\"description\":\"When was the last time you reviewed your retirement plan? Do you know how much you have saved? And are you on track to reach your retirement goals? Key Points You may be contributing to your workplace plan, if you have one. But when was the last time you reviewed your contributions or checked to\",\"image\":{\"type\":\"IMAGE\",\"description\":\"PHOTO\",\"id\":null,\"title\":null,\"caption\":null,\"credit\":\"© Anton Petrus—Moment/Getty Images\",\"url\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/59/236959-050-815EA989/reight-train-on-the-railroad-at-sunrise.jpg\",\"width\":null,\"height\":null,\"altText\":\"A photo of a train headed along its track toward the sunset.\"},\"contentId\":\"1-2235009-1\",\"subTitle\":\"Don’t get derailed.\",\"category\":{\"id\":13205,\"parentId\":13200,\"title\":\"Retirement Planning\",\"description\":\"Are you expecting a long and comfortable retirement? Plan ahead. Will your savings and income streams support all your dreams for your golden years? And do you have contingency plans in case things change? Learn how to plan and strategize for retirement.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdSavings\",\"color\":\"green\"},\"slug\":\"Retirement-Planning\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Retirement-Planning\"}},{\"title\":\"Women and retirement: Longevity increases poverty risk\",\"url\":\"/money/retirement-planning-for-women\",\"description\":\"When we talk about the gender pay gap, one thing that sometimes gets overlooked is how it affects women later in life. Women are more likely than men to live in poverty during what should be their golden years. And ironically, the general longevity that women experience doesn’t help. It’s an\",\"image\":{\"type\":\"IMAGE\",\"description\":\"PHOTO\",\"id\":null,\"title\":null,\"caption\":null,\"credit\":\"© JLco - Julia Amaral––iStock/Getty Images\",\"url\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/81/255781-159-E3CCEBD6/Relaxing-the-mind-and-finding-inner-peace-with-yoga-Senior-woman-meditating-at-home.jpg\",\"width\":null,\"height\":null,\"altText\":\"Senior woman meditating at home.\"},\"contentId\":\"1-2245295-1\",\"subTitle\":\"Don’t outlive your money.\",\"category\":{\"id\":13205,\"parentId\":13200,\"title\":\"Retirement Planning\",\"description\":\"Are you expecting a long and comfortable retirement? Plan ahead. Will your savings and income streams support all your dreams for your golden years? And do you have contingency plans in case things change? Learn how to plan and strategize for retirement.\",\"imageUrl\":\"https://cdn.britannica.com/21/235621-159-24129B3B/britannica-money-default-subject-logo-retirement.jpg\",\"categoryIcon\":{\"name\":\"MdSavings\",\"color\":\"green\"},\"slug\":\"Retirement-Planning\",\"url\":\"/money/browse/Retirement-Planning\"}}]}}]\n"])</script></body></html>