5 Tips for Choosing a LTC Agent

1.  Is the agent "Partnership" certified?
2.  Does the agent sell "linked-benefit" LTC insurance?
3.  Is the agent "captive"?
4.  Does the agent represent or "broker" multiple companies?
5.  Will the agent commit to a "free" (sales-free) initial consultation?

Click below to READ MORE

1.  Is the agent "Partnership certified?
While you may not want or need a Partnership-qualifying policy, the required Partnership agent training (eight-hours, plus four-hours every two years) speaks volumes about an agent's commitment to providing a full range of LTC insurance solutions.  "Traditional" LTC insurance is the only type that can be Partnership-qualified, and to legally represent any traditional-type policy an agent must be Partnership certified.  

An agent who is not Partnership certified can only sell "linked-benefit" LTC insurance.  Linked-benefit policies combine LTC insurance benefits with life insurance or an annuity.  While linked-benefit LTC insurance is growing in popularity - and it is a very good option for many people - it may not be the best option for your particular LTC plans.  An agent who cannot and does not sell traditional LTC insurance will always present a strong bias against traditional coverage and a bias for a linked-benefit solution.

If you are only shown, only offered, one type of LTC insurance - either traditional or linked-benefit - seek a second opinion from someone who represents both and who will educate you on both types.

2.  Does the agent sell "linked-benefit" LTC insurance?
Like question #1, an agent who only represents traditional LTC insurance - or who dismisses linked-benefit options out of hand - may not be able to put your best interests first.  If the agent answers, "Yes", ask for a linked-benefit quote that is tailored to and appropriate for your needs. 

Also ask what linked-benefit company(ies) he or she is actively appointed with.  More than one is preferable - there are many different types of linked-benefit policies.  Can the agent show you multiple companies and options?

(Note that linked-benefit policies are usually not designed the same as traditional LTC insurance so make sure the agent can effectively explain the pros and cons of each.)

3.  Is the agent "captive"?
A true "captive" agent can only represent one company.  He or she cannot "broker" other companies' policies.  You may also ask if other independent, non-company agents are allowed to sell/broker their policy?

Always seek a second-opinion, competing quote(s), when considering a LTCI quote from a captive agent.
 
4.  Does the agent represent or "broker" multiple companies?
If the agent says, "Yes", insist on apples-to-apples quotes from the other/multiple companies he or she can sell.  An agent who claims to be able to sell/broker other companies but only presents one company is not acting in your best interest.

5. Will the agent commit to a "free" (sales-free) initial consultation?
Buying LTC insurance is a big decision. It is critical coverage for a secure retirement.  The coverage can be complicated and expensive.  And LTC Insurance should be tailored to your specific plans and budget.

A good agent trusts his or her expertise and will trust you to honor the time and effort invested in an initial, sales-free, educational meeting without undue pressure to complete an application on the very first meeting.

---

Comfort Long Term Care specialists:
- Are partnership certified.
- Represent both traditional and linked-benefit LTC funding solutions.
- Are not captive.
- Broker many different companies with a variety of LTC funding solutions.
- Always offer a sales-free initial meeting to gather facts and educate you on long-term care issues and LTC funding options.

Learn More About Us