What is Short Term Care Insurance?
Short term care (STC) insurance provides coverage for a limited benefit period—typically ranging from 6 to 12 months. It's designed to cover care needs during recovery from surgery, illness, injury, or other temporary health setbacks.
Unlike traditional long term care insurance, short term care policies often have simplified underwriting, lower premiums, and shorter elimination periods, making them accessible to more people—including those at older ages or with some health conditions.
STC insurance can help cover costs for home health aides, skilled nursing care, physical therapy, and assisted living facilities during your recovery period. Many people use it to bridge the gap between a hospital stay and returning to independent living.
Did you know? Medicare only covers skilled nursing facility care for up to 100 days—and only after a qualifying hospital stay. STC insurance can help fill this critical gap.
What Does Short Term Care Cover?
STC policies provide flexibility in where you receive care, covering multiple settings based on your recovery needs.
Home Health Care
Skilled nursing, therapy, and personal care services provided in your own home.
Assisted Living
Residential care facilities that provide help with daily activities during recovery.
Nursing Facility
Skilled nursing facilities for more intensive care and rehabilitation needs.
Adult Day Care
Daytime supervision and activities while family caregivers are at work.
Key Benefits of STC Insurance
Lower Premiums
Typically 40-60% less expensive than traditional LTC insurance, making coverage accessible for more budgets.
Simplified Underwriting
Easier to qualify for, even at ages 80-89 or with certain health conditions that might disqualify you from traditional LTC.
Quick Benefit Access
Elimination periods as short as 0 days—meaning benefits can start immediately when you need them most.
No "Use It or Lose It" Pressure
Many STC policies offer return of premium options if you never file a claim.
Who Should Consider Short Term Care?
STC insurance serves a unique niche, filling gaps that traditional LTC policies cannot.
Seniors who missed the LTC window — Those over 75-80 who may not qualify for traditional long term care insurance due to age or health.
Surgery or procedure planning — People preparing for hip/knee replacement, cardiac procedures, or other surgeries requiring extended recovery time.
Budget-conscious planners — Those who want meaningful protection but can't afford traditional LTC premiums of $2,000-$5,000+ per year.
Medicare gap coverage — People who want to supplement Medicare's limited skilled nursing coverage (only 100 days after qualifying hospital stay).
Those with pre-existing conditions — Individuals with diabetes, heart conditions, or other issues that might disqualify them from traditional LTC underwriting.
Short Term vs. Long Term Care
Understanding the key differences helps you choose the right coverage for your situation.
| Feature | Short Term Care | Long Term Care |
|---|---|---|
| Benefit Period | 6-12 months | 2-6+ years |
| Elimination Period | 0-30 days | 30-90+ days |
| Underwriting | Simplified | Full medical |
| Maximum Issue Age | Up to 89 | Up to 75-79 |
| Annual Premium (Typical) | $600-$1,500 | $2,000-$5,000+ |
| Daily Benefit | $100-$200/day | $150-$400/day |
| Best For | Recovery & bridge care | Extended care needs |
Explore all coverage options: