The maximum benefit period of any policy is usually 5 years. This is the period of time when no benefits are paid. The time period starts upon admision to the facility. The costs must come out of your pocket during this period. Elimination periods vary from policy to policy.
Some insurers offer policies with no elimination period at all.
While requesting a longer elimination period will lower a policy's premium, the average nursing home stay is only 60 days before the person is released. Remember, this type of insurance is for long-term care when you'll need coverage as soon as possible to offset costs. Lifetime vs. short-term coverage. Standard vs. home-care coverage. Being insured for nursing-home confinement may help you sleep better at night.