The planning tool used to create these calculations is a "holistic" planning model. It includes basics as well as variables not typically understood or appreciated when making decisions regarding LTC risk. For example, these calculations recognize time value of money, which means money not spent on care could remain in an investment portfolio earning more money.
The planning assumptions used in the calculations are as follows: Executive and spouse are insurable age 55, planning to retire in 10 years. If care were needed today, the calculations assume a $180 national average private room daily rate, increasing 5% annually over a 30-year plan period. Current cost estimates should be refined to recognize affluent clients typical use of quality 24/7 home or premier facilities, which doubles the care cost in most markets.
Also assumed is a 4% after-tax rate of returnto project erosion of survivor income due to lost investment opportunity on funds spent on care. The after-tax cost of the premium calculations is based on an estimated federal/state 40% marginal tax rate. While insurance provides unlimited benefit duration for both individuals, estimated care is for one person beginning in year 16 of the 30-year plan period.
The apparent value versus real value of the LTC insurance executive benefit plan is summarized below.
Premium paid by the employer is about $200,000, but real after-tax cost is $120,000 paid out over 10 years. Insurance carrier claims paid is the apparent value of insurance. Estate value includes the 4% after-tax cash flow from retained investments, which was made possible due to the presence of the LTC insurance. (See Chart II.)
In sum, when looking at lifetime economic impact of long term care events, insurance value is clearly demonstratedno matter who pays premium. Substantial lifetime tax-free value of LTC insurance executive plans make this benefit a must issue for every trusted advisor.
Windows of opportunity have a way of disappearing. Executives retire, become uninsurable or otherwise lose access to benefits. Government tax policies also change. This makes todays options potentially unavailable in the future.
, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, is president of LTCi Decision Systems Inc., Irvine, Calif., specialists in LTC software development and LTC insurance consulting. His e-mail address is: [email protected].
Reproduced from National Underwriter Edition, July 29, 2004. Copyright 2004 by The National Underwriter Company in the serial publication. All rights reserved.Copyright in this article as an independent work may be held by the author.
