Part of our guide: Long-Term Care Insurance: Costs, Options and Planning →
Couples usually buy together. So when one spouse is approved for long-term care insurance and the other is declined, the approved spouse often cancels too. That’s exactly when their coverage matters most.
Key takeaways
- If one spouse is declined, the healthy spouse is likely to become the caregiver.
- Caregiving can drain savings and leave little for the caregiver’s own future care.
- The insurable spouse’s coverage protects the couple’s plan, not just one person.
If your spouse can’t get coverage, you’re likely their plan. Who will be yours?
Why couples walk away
The approved spouse may not want coverage from a carrier that declined their partner, or may decide coverage isn’t needed at all. It’s an emotional reaction, and an understandable one, but it leaves both spouses exposed.
Why the insurable spouse needs coverage more
If one spouse can’t be insured, the healthy spouse will probably try to provide care, with all the physical, emotional, and financial demands that brings. Along the way, they may spend down savings that were meant for their own future care.
How to respond
Client: “My spouse was declined, so I don’t want my policy.”
You: “Caring for your spouse could take a little effort or a great deal. Either way, you may need to use your savings, which could leave little for your own care later. Would you be ready to handle that alone?”
Options for the declined spouse
A decline from one carrier isn’t always final. Other carriers, hybrid products, or life insurance with a chronic illness rider may be available. Better field underwriting before you quote also helps avoid the situation. Our LTC team can review options.
Frequently asked questions
What should a couple do if one spouse is declined for LTC insurance?
The insurable spouse should usually keep their coverage, since they’re likely to become the caregiver. Look into alternatives for the declined spouse.
Can a spouse declined for LTC insurance get other coverage?
Sometimes. Another carrier, a hybrid product, or a life policy with a chronic illness rider may be possible.
Why is LTC coverage important for the healthy spouse?
They often provide care for the other spouse and may use up savings meant for their own future care.
Reviewed by Tim Fuller on 2026-09-25
Tim Fuller
President, SRS Inc.
Tim leads SRS Inc., a full-service IMO (Independent Marketing Organization) and BGA (Brokerage General Agency), connecting independent financial professionals with life, annuity, disability income, and long-term care solutions from 60+ carrier partners.
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