Genworth and John Hancock are probably the most well known, but there is no one best carrier that fits all--it depends on your situation, marital status, state, health history, age and financial status. What you need is a completely independent agent who knows all the details about many many carriers and who has been a specialist in the area of LTC insurance for a long time. They will be most familiar with all the options and most current changes in the industry. I heard recently that Penn Treaty has an opportunity for those who would otherwise be considered uninsurable by all the other carriers. The plan is called “Secured Risk” and is worth checking out, but again, use an independent agent, don't go directly to the carrier. My recommendation to the most knowledgeable agent I know would be Gelbwaks Insurance--as they are licensed in all states with 30+ years in the industry. I know Peter Gelbwaks (he has been a regular guest on my radio show, 'Coping with Caregiving' for several years) and I am sure he would be happy to assist you. http://www.gelbwaks.com/

Jacqueline makes many excellent points. Her advice to find an excellent independent agent is outstanding. Beyond asking them the questions she suggests, I recommend that you describe you personal and family situation, concerns, desires and preferences to them. The more that they know, the better job they can do to customize the coverage to you. If you contact me at cthau@targetins.com, I will send you contact information regarding an independent broker in your area, if I know one.

My parents paid ridiculously outrageous premiums (more than my house payments) for years and are getting nothing for it.  My Mom thought she had checked all the fine print and understood the coverage, but not so.  She paid extra for them to have the ability of getting in home help so they could stay together in the family home.  Especially for dementia-type problems you need to know what will be covered.  They had to have problems with two ADLs before it would pay anything.  Doesn't matter that you're screaming and violent, lost in the woods in mid-winter with no coat, scrubbing holes in the wallboard because you see spots on the wall.  As long as you can still get dressed and feed yourself in the morning then, no coverage.