Most states require financial professionals to provide consumers with a copy of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners publication “A Shopper’s Guide to Long-Term Care Insurance” before completing an LTC insurance sale.

The booklet covers a range of questions consumers should consider when making LTC decisions, including:

• How Much Does Long-Term Care Cost?
• How Might I Pay for Long-Term Care?
• Will I Need or Use Long-Term Care?
• What Types of Policies or Contracts Can I Buy that Provide Long-Term Care Benefits or Coverage?
• How Are Long-Term Care Benefits Paid?
• What Shopping Tips Should I Keep in Mind?

A recent Wall Street Journal article (subscription required) by financial columnist Glenn Ruffenach discusses the importance of planning for long-term care and points to the Shopper’s Guide as a valuable resource. Ruffenach also identifies insurance and financial professionals as an important source of guidance for consumers. He says that “your best first step is not to shop for a carrier or policy. Rather, it’s to shop for a knowledgeable, independent agent.”