Tag Archives: KIRKLAND, Wash.

Pick Your Long-Term Care Agent Carefully, Advises ACSIA Partners

KIRKLAND, Wash., May 9, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The best way to buy long-term care insurance is through an independent agent, according to many experts. But agents vary. How do you pick a professional who is right for you? "We recommend asking six key questions," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, one of America's largest long-term care insurance agencies.

The questions are:

1. Do you offer any solutions other than long-term care insurance? Today LTC insurance isn't the only way to cover long-term care expenses. Popular alternatives include critical illness insurance, annuities, and life insurance with LTC riders. "Unless you're absolutely sure LTC insurance is what you need," says Gott, "your best bet may be dealing with someone who offers other choices as well. For example, what if it turns out you don't qualify for LTC insurance?"

2. Where are you licensed? LTC agents must be certified by every state in which they conduct business. "Be sure you pick someone who's licensed and covers your area," Gott says. "Also, probe the scope of the agent's practice. Many of the more experienced agents are certified in two, three, or more states. Multiple state certifications may be a sign of a person's experience, but some single-state agents build very large clienteles close to home and may be equally experienced."

3. What insurance carriers do you represent? "If the agent mentions just one carrier, beware," says Gott. "Your best bet is someone who represents several companies offering a range of policy options. The idea is to compare alternative plans and find the one with the features you want at a cost you can afford."

4. Do you receive higher commissions on some LTC policies than on others? "The best answer is no," says Gott. "Some agencies, including ours, have a procedure for equalizing commission income. This ensures that agents get the same commission rate no matter what policy you buy. There's no temptation for them to push a high-profit item."

5. Can you advise me on tax breaks and other financial ramifications of long-term care insurance? "A qualified answer is best here," says Gott. "Experienced agents know about the relevant regulations, but don't pretend to be experts in tax law or estate planning. Instead, they defer to (and often work with) financial advisors, accountants, estate planners, and attorneys."

6. How can I learn more about you? "The aim of this question is to uncover the agent's reputation," says Gott. "Can they name professionals who recommend them? Have they been written up online or in the newspaper? Are they scheduled to speak at an upcoming event? Can they be found on the Internet? Can they give you references?"

Gott's organization has over 300 state-certified long-term care agents in all parts of the country. All are glad to answer the above questions and any others.

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving families and organizations in all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0421-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners #LongTermCare

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/pick-your-long-term-care-agent-carefully-advises-acsia-partners-2016-0509-02.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE ACSIA Partners LLC :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Do-It-Yourself Long-Term Care Can Have High Hidden Costs, According to ACSIA Partners

KIRKLAND, Wash., April 21, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Rate increases by some long-term care insurance carriers should not scare people off, according to Denise Gott. "Even if a particular policy's premium seems high," she says, "it may be a bargain compared to the alternative, family caregiving." Gott is CEO of ACSIA Partners, one of the nation's largest long-term care insurance agencies.

"Family caregiving has three hidden costs, which can be significant," says Gott.

1. Lost Income. According to the Long Term Care Financing Collaborative, women in their 50s who leave their jobs to care for aging parents lose $300,000 in lifetime income, on average.

Losses can vary. For example, at age 57 Amy left an $85,000-a-year job to care for her father at home for three years. That's $255,000 in lost salary plus thousands more in lost Social Security benefits. In addition, during those three "idle" years, Amy may have become less employable, losing out on tens to hundreds of thousands more.

2. Increased Health Risks. Family caregivers often expose themselves to injury and illness from the physical stresses of handling a loved one, and from the psychological stresses of tending them endlessly. A recent study by the Alzheimer's Association found that family caregivers are 28 percent more likely to go hungry or eat less. Twenty percent said they sacrificed their own medical care by cutting down on doctor's visits.

In a study by the Center on Aging, 10 percent of caregivers said their own health declined due to their efforts. This translated into higher healthcare costs for them, and was especially acute for those who lost their health insurance when they left their jobs.

3. Lost Retirement Assets and Less Investment in the Family. In the Alzheimer's Association study, 13 percent of caregivers said they tapped their savings or retirement assets to help provide care, and many sold personal items such as a car. Eleven percent said they cut back on their children's education.

In a study by the National Alliance for Caregiving and Evercare, 47 percent of working caregivers reported using up all or most of their savings while giving care.

What's the current cost of insurance? According to the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, typical policies range from $960 to $2,035 per year for a male age 55; and from $960 to $2,580 per year for a female age 55.

"This may not seem out of line compared to do-it-yourself care," says Gott, "especially if professional care is also needed as the loved one deteriorates." The annual median cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home is $80,300, according to Genworth Financial, Inc.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, nearly 70 percent of those 65 or older will need long-term care at some point; and the federal government recommends long-term care insurance for those who can afford it.

Gott agrees. "LTC insurance can provide valuable protection, but it's not for everyone," she says. "Wealthy individuals can self-insure. And those without means may qualify for long-term care from Medicaid." (Medicare does not cover most long-term care services, contrary to common belief.)

"Those who could benefit from LTC insurance owe it to themselves to look into the costs and benefits," she advises. "It only takes a minute to get started. Just go to our website and request a quote. You may also talk with an expert." Her organization has over 300 long-term care specialists in all parts of the country.

About ACSIA Partners:

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving families and organizations in all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0421-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners #LongTermCare

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/do-it-yourself-long-term-care-can-have-high-hidden-costs-according-to-acsia-partners-2016-0421-01.shtml.

Tax Tip from ACSIA Partners: 2016 Deductions Make Long-Term Care Insurance More Affordable for Many

KIRKLAND, Wash., March 17, 2016 (SEND2PRESSS NEWSWIRE) -- If you're in the market for long-term care insurance, you may be suffering from sticker shock. "The cost may seem out of reach," says Denise Gott. "Many people feel this way, so they put off protecting themselves. That's a shame, because in their case, Uncle Sam may pick up part of the tab." Gott is CEO of ACSIA Partners, one of the nation's largest long-term care insurance agencies.

Federal tax deductions for owning long-term care insurance range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, and they're higher than ever in 2016. "Not everyone qualifies," says Gott, "but everyone owes it to themselves to find out if they do and how big the deduction might be. For millions, the net policy cost will be at least a little less than the 'sticker price.'"

For the taxable year beginning in 2016, the limitations under Section 213(d)(10) of the IRS tax code, regarding eligible long-term care premiums includible in the term "medical care," are as follows:

Attained Age Before Close of Taxable Year / Limitation on Premiums:
* 40 or less: $390
* More than 40 but not more than 50: $730
* More than 50 but not more than 60 $1,460
* More than 60 but not more than 70: $3,900
* More than 70: $4,870.

The deductions recur every year that one pays long-term care premiums, and have been increasing annually.

"The idea is to encourage Americans to protect themselves," says Gott. "Unfortunately only about 10 percent of those who could benefit from a policy actually have one. The percentage should be much higher. We think it would be if the deductions were taken into account."

Greater public awareness is vitally needed, and Gott's company is doing what it can to spread the word. "We have over 150 long-term care specialists in all parts of the country. During tax season they're available to consult with anyone or their financial advisor by phone or in person."

About ACSIA Partners:

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1119-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners #LongTermCare

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/tax-tip-from-acsia-partners-2016-deductions-make-long-term-care-insurance-more-affordable-for-many-2016-0317-01.shtml.

ACSIA Partners Alerts Americans to Plan for Alzheimer’s Long-Term Care Before It’s Needed

KIRKLAND, Wash., Feb. 24, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Today ACSIA Partners, a national distributor of long-term care insurance and education, recommends preemptive action against the impact of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. "Cognitive decline is a big and growing reason Americans need long-term care," says Denise Gott, CEO, "and the best time to plan for it is before symptoms arise."

"Think of it this way," she explains. "If you're worried about your house burning down, you wouldn't wait for smoke and flames before getting fire insurance or removing fire hazards."

When it comes to Alzheimer's, most Americans fail to appreciate its danger and avail themselves of sensible precautions, according to Gott. She offers these three guidelines:

1. Recognize the size of the problem. The Alzheimer's Association reports that one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. Five million Americans are living with Alzheimer's, and the number is expected to triple as millions of Baby Boomers enter their retirement years.

"Alzheimer's is a progressive and fatal disease," says Gott. "Over time, more and more longer-living Americans may lose the ability to care for themselves. Millions will need long-term care."

And they may need it for an extended period. "Many dementia victims require LTC for seven to ten years or more," she says, "while others typically need care for about three years."

2. Determine whether insurance is the right option. Medicare does not cover many services that are needed by people living with dementia.

Medicaid does provide substantial help, but only for those lacking the financial means to help themselves. If you fall into this category, public assistance may be your best bet.

Otherwise, providing care is up to you. If you're very wealthy, you may choose to self-insure. If you're not rich but doing OK, private insurance may be your best option. "An LTC policy lets productive family members keep on with their jobs and lives," says Gott. "Nobody has to become default caregiver, a role usually filled by a wife, daughter, or other female relative."

3. If LTC insurance makes sense for you, consult with a dementia-aware advisor. LTC agents are state-certified, but there's no legal requirement they know anything about dementia. So it's up to you to pick one who does.

Such an agent can answer questions such as, "How many years of care should my policy cover?" and "What mental or physical disabilities trigger benefits?"

A dementia-aware agent can also help you explore appropriate benefit options available in a wide range of policies from multiple competing carriers.

Gott and her colleagues also support efforts to promote brain health and research to find future treatments for dementia. In January they hosted "Wiggin' Out for Alzheimer's," a gala event in Austin that raised $19,000 for the Alzheimer's Association. Individual ACSIA agents contributed $3,700; CEO Gott matched that with another $3,700; ASCIA Partners as a company contributed $8,000; and the rest came from carriers that ACSIA represents.

"We invite people everywhere to join us in supporting the Alzheimer's Association," says Gott. They may do so here: http://www.alz.org .

"Every amount, large or small, makes a difference," says Gott. "Together we can beat Alzheimer's, just as we beat other diseases once thought incurable, such as smallpox, polio, and TB."

"And in the meantime, we can make our lives better through prudent care planning and healthy lifestyles."

About ACSIA Partners:

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1119-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners @alzassociation

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/acsia-partners-alerts-americans-to-plan-for-alzheimers-long-term-care-before-its-needed-2016-0224-02.shtml.

This Thanksgiving, Talk Turkey About Alzheimer’s and Long-Term Care

KIRKLAND, Wash., Nov. 19, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- November is Long-Term Care Awareness Month, and it's also National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. "Both topics warrant attention this Thanksgiving," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, a leading long-term care insurance agency. "The risk of Alzheimer's looms large, and the risk of needing long-term care looms even larger."

These two dangers affect millions of families more personally than other topics (like politics, terrorism, and sports) that are likely to grace the Thanksgiving table.

Gott points to disquieting facts:
* Nearly 70 percent of Americans 65 and older need LTC at some point, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

* One in nine people age 65 and older (11 percent) fall victim to Alzheimer's, according to the Alzheimer's Association. The proportion increases to about one in three (32 percent) for people age 85 and older.

* Alzheimer's has become a leading cause of needing long-term care. About one in four LTC claims are attributed to Alzheimer's, according to the Society of Actuaries. Other claims are attributed to physical issues ranging from chronic illnesses to injuries and disabilities.

"These things need to be addressed," says Gott. "And what better time than Thanksgiving, when everyone's together and free to talk?"

After Thanksgiving and the December holidays, ACSIA Partners will showcase a trailer of the motion picture, "It Snows all The Time," at their annual meeting. The feature film is completed and has been submitted to the Sundance Film Festival. It stars Brett Cullen and Lesley Ann Warren and is produced by Erich Hover, whose father, played by Cullen, came down with Alzheimer's and is the basis of the movie.

Cullen is known for appearances in "Apollo 13," "Ghost Rider," "The Dark Knight Rises," many other films, and popular TV series including "The West Wing."

Hover's first movie break came acting alongside Brad Pitt and Philip Seymour Hoffman in "Moneyball." His experience with Alzheimer's in his family allowed him to immerse in the lead role of Jesse in his movie, "It Snows All the Time."

Hover was motivated to create the film after his father started showing symptoms of dementia/Alzheimer's at age 58. Progressing since then, the disease has drastically affected his memory and his behavior, and he will need long-term care soon.

Hover and Cullen will deliver a joint keynote speech at an ACSIA Partners conference in Austin, Texas, on January 16, 2016.

"The Hover family is like many other families celebrating Thanksgiving this month," says Gott. "By sharing their story on film, they humanize the Alzheimer's issue and the need for care that usually comes with it. They help millions take heart and take action."

About ACSIA Partners LLC:

ACSIA Partners is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies with hundreds of agents serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

More information: http://www.acsiapartners.com/.

* PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-1118-hoverfam-300dpi.jpg

* Photo Caption: The Hover family, subject of the movie "It Snows All the Time."

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/this-thanksgiving-talk-turkey-about-alzheimer-s-and-long-term-care-2015-1119-01.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE ACSIA Partners LLC :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

50-Somethings Advised to Calculate Their ‘Long-Term Care Savings Gap’

KIRKLAND, Wash., Oct. 21, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Most Americans are poorly prepared to pay for long-term care costs, but there's a two-step fix, according to ACSIA Partners, a leading long-term care insurance agency. It starts by learning if there's a gap, and how big, between your ability to pay and your likely future expenses.

For most Americans there is indeed a gap. According to a May 2015 report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), 52 percent of households age 55 and older have no savings for retirement (let alone long-term care). If you're among the 48 percent with some retirement savings, you may be prepared to cover some, but not all, of your probable LTC tab.

What to do?

"Step one," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, "is to see if you have a gap, and how big." Doing so can take less than five minutes. For a rough estimate, Gott recommends entering a few facts into a calculator provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: http://longtermcare.gov/savings-calculator/.

Here's a sample calculation for a 52-year old woman planning to retire in Florida, who could afford to set aside $300 (earning 4 percent interest) per month starting now. She would have a long-term care savings gap of $652,184, based on $839,263 in projected care costs in Florida, for life remaining after age 65, minus $187,079 in accumulated savings, as determined by government data and assumptions.

If the woman were married, there would likely be a similar gap for her partner.

Once you know you've got a gap, "the next step is just as simple and almost as quick," says Gott. "Ask a state-certified long-term care agent to help you explore your options." This can be done by phone or online. An in-person meeting is optional.

ACSIA Partners offers state-certified agents covering all parts of the country. To get in touch with one, just go to the company's website -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- and submit an inquiry form indicating your state of residence.

About ACSIA Partners LLC:

ACSIA Partners is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies with hundreds of agents serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan. More information: http://www.acsiapartners.com/.

* PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-1021-Denise-Gott-LTCgap-300dpi.jpg

* Photo Caption: ACSIA Partners CEO Denise Gott with graph of LTC gap.

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/50-somethings-advised-to-calculate-their-long-term-care-savings-gap-2015-1021-01.shtml.

Just Among Friends: Long-Term Care Insurance on Facebook

KIRKLAND, Wash., Sept. 23, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Long-term care insurance agents often resist reaching out to friends who could use their help. And seekers of LTC insurance information also resist reaching out to friends who may be in the business. But there's much to gain from overcoming this reluctance, according to ACSIA Partners, a leading long-term care insurance agency.

"If you're an agent, you may recoil at the idea of selling to your friends," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners. "And if you're on the buying end, you may feel you're imposing if you approach a friend in the business. But you really should connect. In our experience, agents and buyers who are friends are getting together with good results on both sides."

Social media sites -- especially Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter -- make it easy for LTC agents to reach out in low-key ways, according to Gott. "Our people avoid the hard sell," she says. "That's important. Mostly they just make clear they're in the business. And they post useful information that friends appreciate. For example, a reminder of LTC deductions available at tax time, or facts on who needs protection, or available policy types."

Agents who get lots of inquiries from friends tend to post regularly, maintaining an ongoing presence and dialog. Two examples:

Gabrielle Gelo makes regular visits to Facebook and is amply rewarded. "Facebook allows me to reach out to childhood acquaintances that I might not have maintained contact with otherwise, through the high school Facebook page. They need help with long-term care planning, and the trust is already there," she says. "For me, social media works: it costs nothing, and takes minimal time."

Kim Beckham also enjoys a solid response from social media. "Last year, about three fourths of my business was Facebook-related," she reports. "And it was mostly with friends and family and referrals from friends and family."

Beckham, like Gelo, stresses the importance of keeping things low-key and friendly. For example, "On Facebook I don't use a business page," says Beckham. "I just use my personal page, because I feel I am my brand, and people are looking to me as a person, not an agent."

If you're a consumer, social media can be an especially good place to shop for LTC insurance, according to Gott. "It's fine to click on internet ads or request quotes on search engines," she says. "But if you value the personal touch, it's hard to beat social media for linking up with someone you know and trust."

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies with hundreds of agents serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

* IMAGE (web): Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-0923-acsia-sept-500x375.jpg

* Image Caption: ACSIA Partners agents Kim Beckham and Gabrielle Gelo with CEO Denise Gott.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/just-among-friends-long-term-care-insurance-on-facebook-2015-0923-03.shtml.

Twenty Eight of America’s ‘Top 100’ Long-Term Care Insurance Agents Are with a Single Agency, ACSIA Partners

KIRKLAND, Wash., Aug. 11, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- High-flying birds tend to flock together. At least that seems to be the case with long-term care specialists from ACSIA Partners, a leading long-term care insurance agency. Twenty eight of them received the "2015 Long-Term Care Sales Achievement Award" and were among the top 100 individual LTCi producers, based on premium.

The awards are made annually by the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, the trade association for professionals dedicated to serving the nation's long-term care planning needs.

Why did ACSIA Partners win such a large share of the awards?

"It's simple," says Denise Gott, CEO. "We put our clients' needs first, and they respond by giving us their trust."

"Also," she adds, "long-term care insurance is our specialty. We know the product inside out and recommend policies from multiple high-rated carriers, not just a single source. And we focus on education and service, not selling."

The company also attracts less experienced, up-and-coming agents who bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. "We help them grow and succeed," says Gott.

"They're the ones who will make the top-100 list in years to come," she adds. "Partly due to their own professionalism and partly due to help from our veterans, who want the whole organization to thrive."

As 77 million baby boomers approach retirement, "The demand for long-term care planning is likely to mushroom," says Gott. "To help fill the need, we'll be here with some of the top agents in the business."

About ACSIA Partners LLC:

ACSIA Partners -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/twenty-eight-of-americas-top-100-long-term-care-insurance-agents-are-with-a-single-agency-acsia-partners-2015-0811-01.shtml.

Check Out Long-Term Care Insurance Agents before Engaging with Them, ACSIA Partners Advises

KIRKLAND, Wash., July 20, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- If you're in the market for long-term care insurance, you've probably submitted some online forms. And your phone may be ringing. How should you respond? "Cautiously at first," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, a leading long-term care insurance agency.

Why? "Before any agent can develop valid recommendations and quotes, they need a lot of personal information," she explains. "Sensitive facts about your health and finances. So you'd better know who you're dealing with." Also, she adds, "Their experience matters, so it's good to check that out too."

She suggests going online to answer three key questions.

1. Do they have a professional website? Today a site is an agent's calling card, evidence they're in business and serious about it, she asserts. "Their site provides a wealth of information," she explains. "To find it, ask them for its address, or search for it by entering their name and 'long term care insurance.'" What if they don't have a site? "That's not a good sign," says Gott. "Our agents have robust sites with their picture, location, states where they're licensed, carriers they represent, news about them, and more."

2. Can you find evidence of them beyond their site? "Search for them on Google or Bing, and on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn." Gott suggests. "Enter their name and the words, 'long term care.' Do they come up? How often? Are people recommending them or referring to them? Are they being quoted in the news or industry publications?"

3. Can you find them on specialized industry sites? Many agents have registered with one or more of the following, according to Gott:
* American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance. Registered members are listed by zip code here: http://www.aaltci.org/cgi-bin/distance2agents .
* Long Term Care Guild. Registered members may be found by entering their name in "Advanced search," here: http://ltcguild.ning.com/profiles/members/ .
* National Care Planning Council. Participating agents may be found by state here: https://www.longtermcarelink.net/a7insurancequotes.htm .
* Agent Review, the new rating and matching service for insurance agents and buyers. Registered members may be found by selecting "Long Term Care" as the insurance type and entering a zip code, here: http://agentreview.net/ .

"Once you've checked an agent out," says Gott, "you can breathe easy knowing you're dealing with a pro, and get down to brass tacks."

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

* LOGO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1119-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg

TWITTER: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/check-out-long-term-care-insurance-agents-before-engaging-with-them-acsia-partners-advises-2015-0720-02.shtml.

ACSIA Partners Offers Election Poll on Key Issue: Incentives to Help More Americans Afford Long-Term Care Insurance

KIRKLAND, Wash., June 24, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Today ACSIA Partners LLC announces a straw poll asking Americans to say which 2016 Presidential candidate, Democratic or Republican, is more likely to back federal incentives for owning long-term care insurance.

Available at http://ltcpoll2016.strikingly.com/, the poll simply asks, "Which party's candidate is more likely to offer new tax incentives for long-term care insurance?"

Why the poll?

"It's not just to take the pulse of the public," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners. "We want to influence the candidates. When they see the poll results, they might start taking the LTC issue more seriously."

The majority of senior Americans lack long-term care insurance, Gott points out. "It's not included in the Affordable Care Act, and Medicare doesn't cover most long-term care needs. Medicaid offers broad assistance, but only for those who lack means."

"For the vast majority of Americans," Gott continues, "private insurance is the only viable LTC insurance option, but millions shrink from the cost. New tax breaks could change that. The candidates need to take a position and include it in their talking points."

Senior voters could tip the election one way or the other, Gott asserts. "There are tens of millions of them. They show up at the polls. And when you add their family members to their numbers, they make up a clear majority of eligible voters."

The straw poll will run continuously and the tally will be updated after each submission. Results to date will be immediately visible to participants, at http://ltcpoll2016.strikingly.com/.

About ACSIA Partners:

ACSIA Partners LLC - http://www.acsiapartners.com/ - is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

IMAGES:
*PHOTO (web): send2press.com/mediaboom/14-0827-denise-gott-500x375.jpg

*Photo Caption: ACSIA Partners CEO Denise Gott.

*LOGO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1119-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/acsia-partners-offers-election-poll-on-key-issue-incentives-to-help-more-americans-afford-long-term-care-insurance-2015-0624-01.shtml.

Homecare-Friendly Long-Term Care Plans from ACSIA Partners Let Seniors Continue Living at Home and Save Money Too

KIRKLAND, Wash., April 27, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Many people envision long-term care insurance as a means of paying the bills when they move into a care facility. If you're one of them, "You should widen your vision," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, an industry leader. "LTC insurance also pays for care in one's own home. But some policies do a better job of it than others." Today ACSIA Partners announces a campaign to promote Homecare-Friendly LTC plans.

Gott points out that long-term care insurance comes in many forms, not all of them ideal for home care. "There are two broad categories of policies," she says, "reimbursement policies and cash policies. With a reimbursement policy you submit bills for approval and subsequent payment, which is usually made to an institution. With a cash policy you get monthly benefit checks that you can use however you wish, giving you great freedom in hiring whatever services whenever you want."

People who prefer to "age in place" (at home) may be better off with a cash policy, according to Gott. But reimbursement policies have their advantages, and some are more friendly to home care than others. "With our approach, we guide clients to the most suitable policies from multiple leading carriers," says Gott.

Receiving care in one's own home is not only preferred by many; it can also be easier on the pocketbook, Gott points out. According to the Genworth 2015 Cost of Long-Term Care Survey, the national average cost of a private room in a nursing home is now $91,250 per year, up 4.17% from 2014. Assisted living facility costs now average $43,200 per year, up 2.86% from last year, according to the study. Serious money.

By contrast, care services provided in the home or community can be relatively modest if used judiciously. Homemaker services are now $20 per hour, up 2.63% from 2014. Home health aide services are also $20 per hour, up 1.27%. Adult day care center costs now run $69 per day, up 5.94% from 2014.

At $20 per hour, in-home care services would run $20,800 per year if utilized 4 hours per day 5 days a week. Adult day care services would run $17,940 per year if utilized 5 days a week.

With lower anticipated costs, a less expensive LTC policy might be appropriate. "Our agents serve all kinds of needs of individuals and organizations," says Gott. "If a client prefers in-home care, a Homecare-Friendly plan will be recommended."

ACSIA Partners includes a few hundred state-certified agents covering all parts of the country. To get in touch with one, just go to the company's website -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- and submit an inquiry form.

ACSIA Partners LLC (in California, xACSIA Partners Insurance Agency LLC) is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

*PHOTO (web): send2press.com/mediaboom/14-0827-denise-gott-500x375.jpg

*Photo Caption: ACSIA Partners CEO Denise Gott.

*LOGO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1119-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/homecare-friendly-long-term-care-plans-from-acsia-partners-let-seniors-continue-living-at-home-save-money-too-2015-0427-01.shtml.

Getting the Lowdown on Long-Term Care Insurance No Longer Laborious Thanks to Tech-Savvy Agents

KIRKLAND, Wash., March 24, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Thinking about long-term care insurance but loathe to schedule a lengthy interview in your home? You may be laboring under an outmoded assumption, that reaching out to an expert is a big deal. That's no longer the case with a new breed of tech-savvy agents. So says ACSIA Partners, an industry leader, in a consumer alert issued today.

"Ten years ago," says Denise Gott, the company's CEO, "you made an appointment with an agent who came to your home and spent a fair amount of time with you. And you might have worried about sales pressure. But times have changed."

Lengthy in-home meetings are still available, she reports, but they're less and less the norm, at least in her organization. "Now most of our agents are connected and quick. They work remotely, by phone and screen-sharing, and they stick to the facts, respecting your time."

Many people assume the old time-consuming, face-to-face practices still prevail, according to Gott, "So they spend hours browsing the internet on their own, when they could get the facts in minutes from someone who knows."

She recommends reaching out in three-steps:
(1) Rule LTC insurance in or rule it out. "Just call one of our agents or have one call you. Say you've got five minutes and want to know if the insurance is right for you. Our agents ask concise screening questions and can steer you right, and quickly."

Long-term care insurance isn't for everyone, Gott points out. Other care solution (such as annuities, critical illness insurance, or life insurance with LTC riders) may be better for your situation. "The agent will tell you frankly."

(2) Ask for competitive quotes. "If LTC insurance is indicated, our agents go to bat for you," says Gott. "They don't offer just one policy choice. They research multiple options from multiple carriers, looking for the best set of benefits at the lowest cost. Then they present the choices to you, in your home if you like, or by PC, phone, and overnight mail."

(3) Submit an application or say no thanks. Once you receive the recommendations, the ball is in your court. Ask questions, thoroughly understand each policy choice from each carrier, and then pick one. Or reject them all. "Saying no is a rational response," says Gott. "Our agents are professionals. They don't take offense. And if you're dealing remotely, saying no may be easier."

If you decide on one of the proposed policies, the agent can help you complete the application. "There's very little paperwork that you have to do personally," says Gott. "Our agents handle most of it for you. It's part of their job."

"The main point," says Gott, "is not to put off seeking help because of outmoded assumptions. You're not committing to anything. All you're doing is asking for some quick answers."

ACSIA Partners includes a few hundred state-certified agents covering all parts of the country. To get in touch with one, just go to the company's website -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- and submit an inquiry form indicating your state of residence.

ACSIA Partners LLC (in California, xACSIA Partners Insurance Agency LLC) is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

On July 2, 2014, LTC Financial Partners LLC and LTC Global Marketing Inc. announced the completion of the merger of the two companies into ACSIA Partners.

*Photo Caption: ACSIA Partners CEO Denise Gott.

*LOGO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1119-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg .

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/getting-the-lowdown-on-long-term-care-insurance-no-longer-laborious-thanks-to-tech-savvy-agents-2015-0324-001.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE ACSIA Partners :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

ScoopCloud

The affordable PR newswire service