How long must long-term care policies provide benefits according to Georgia regulations?

Under Georgia regulations, long-term care policies are required to provide benefits for a minimum period of 12 months. This requirement is put in place to ensure that individuals have adequate coverage for an extended duration, reflecting the typical length of care that some may need due to chronic illness or disability. By mandating a 12-month benefit period, the regulation aims to protect consumers and ensure that they have sufficient support during potentially lengthy periods of needing care, which is crucial for both financial stability and access to necessary services.

This standard aligns with the recognition that many long-term care needs cannot be effectively met with shorter benefit periods, which may leave individuals vulnerable to substantial out-of-pocket costs or inadequate care. Thus, the 12-month minimum is a critical aspect of ensuring that long-term care policies serve their intended purpose.