Brighthouse SmartCare® – A Smart Solution for Modern Retirement Challenges

Retirement is supposed to be the golden chapter of life—a time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. But with longer life expectancies and rising healthcare costs, planning for the unexpected has become more crucial than ever. Imagine if you could protect your loved ones, prepare for potential long-term care needs, and grow your benefits—all with one smart policy.

Meet Brighthouse SmartCare®, a modern hybrid long-term care insurance solution that combines life insurance with long-term care protection, designed to help you navigate retirement confidently.

According to the National Institute on Aging, about 70% of adults over 65 will require some form of long-term care services during their lifetime. Understanding these statistics makes planning for future care needs even more critical for retirement security.

Sarah and Tom's Story: Planning for the Future

Sarah and Tom, both in their early 60s, were looking forward to traveling the world during retirement. They had worked hard, saved diligently, and wanted to make sure their nest egg was secure. But they were concerned about the potential costs of long-term care and how it might impact their savings and their children's inheritance.

They discovered Brighthouse SmartCare®, which offered them life insurance coverage and the added peace of mind of long-term care benefits. By choosing an indexed growth option, they could potentially grow their benefits over time, aligning with their optimistic outlook on life.

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Discover how Brighthouse SmartCare® compares with other top-rated hybrid policies. Find the best plan that suits your needs and protects your future.

What Is Brighthouse SmartCare®?

Brighthouse SmartCare® is more than just a policy—it's a strategy. It's an indexed universal life insurance policy that offers:

• Guaranteed Death Benefit: Financial security for your loved ones.
• Guaranteed Long-Term Care Benefits: Monthly LTC benefit payments without the hassle of receipts or reimbursements.
• Potential for Growth: Options to link your policy to market indices, allowing benefits to grow while protecting against downturns.

This hybrid vs traditional approach ensures your protection dollars are used wisely, addressing multiple financial needs with one comprehensive product.

Michael's Journey: Flexibility When It Matters Most

At 70, Michael was active and healthy, enjoying his retirement hobbies. But life threw an unexpected curveball when he was diagnosed with a progressive condition requiring long-term care. Fortunately, he had invested in Brighthouse SmartCare® years earlier.

With indemnity-based LTC benefits, Michael received his full monthly benefit without needing to submit expenses. This flexibility allowed him to hire a home health aide and cover additional costs that standard policies might not consider—all while maintaining his dignity and independence.

Key Features of Brighthouse SmartCare®

1. Comprehensive Protection

• Life Insurance + LTC: Dual coverage ensures value, even if LTC is never needed.
• Guaranteed Benefits: Death and LTC benefits are guaranteed when premiums are paid.

2. Growth Potential with Safety Nets

• Indexed Options: Link to indices like the S&P 500®, Russell 2000®, or MSCI EAFE for potential growth.
• Downside Protection: Your policy values won't decrease due to market losses.

3. Flexible Benefit Payments

• Indemnity Payments: No receipts required—use your benefits as you see fit.
• Choice of Care: Funds can be used for home care, assisted living, skilled nursing, hospice, and more.

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How Does Brighthouse SmartCare® Work?

Customizing Your Policy

1. Choose Your LTC Coverage Option

   • Indexed LTC Growth: Potentially increase benefits based on market performance, up to a cap.
   • Fixed Growth LTC: Guaranteed 5% compound annual growth.
   • Level LTC: Keep benefits constant throughout the term.

2. Select Your LTC Benefit Period

   • LTC Acceleration of Death Benefit Rider (ADBR): Access up to 95% of your policy's face amount during the first two years of a claim.
   • Extension of Benefits Rider (EOBR): Extend benefits for an additional two or four years, for up to six years of coverage.

3. Choose Your Premium Payment Schedule

   • Single Premium Payment: One-time payment for simplicity.
   • Multi-Year Payments: Spread payments over 2 to 5 years.

Emily's Peace of Mind: Leaving a Legacy

Emily, a 65-year-old grandmother, wanted to ensure her family was taken care of after she was gone. But she also worried about the potential need for long-term care eroding her estate. Brighthouse SmartCare® provided her with a solution.

By choosing the Fixed Growth LTC option, she had guaranteed growth in her benefits and the assurance that her grandchildren would receive a legacy. Moreover, if she ever needed long-term care, she had the resources without depleting her assets.

Additional Benefits and Considerations

Financial Strength of Brighthouse Financial

• Trusted Provider: One of the largest providers of annuities and life insurance in the U.S.
• Commitment to Clients: Dedicated to helping you achieve financial security.

Simplified Underwriting

• Ages 40 to 75: Streamlined process with potential for no medical exams.
• Quick Decisions: Initial decisions often within 24 hours.

Tax Advantages

• Generally Tax-Free Benefits: Both death and LTC benefits are typically income tax-free under current laws.
• Consult a Professional: Always wise to seek tax advice specific to your situation.

According to Medicare.gov, traditional Medicare does not cover most long-term care services, making private insurance solutions like SmartCare® an important consideration for comprehensive retirement planning.

Why Choose Brighthouse SmartCare®?

• Holistic Protection: Combines life insurance and LTC, addressing multiple needs.
• Flexibility: Indemnity payments let you use benefits your way.
• Growth Potential: Indexed options provide opportunity for benefits to grow.
• Simplicity: Easy underwriting and customizable options.

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Key Takeaways

• Combines life insurance and long-term care benefits in one policy
• Offers guaranteed death benefits and LTC coverage
• Features potential market-linked growth with downside protection
• Provides flexible payment options and simplified underwriting
• Includes tax-advantaged benefits under current law

Retirement should be a time of joy, not worry. With Brighthouse SmartCare®, you can embrace the future knowing you've made a smart choice for yourself and your loved ones.