Key Takeaways
- South Carolina regulates individual disability insurance under Title 38
- Long-term care insurance requires 30-day free look period
- LTC policies must offer inflation protection options
- South Carolina participates in the Long-Term Care Partnership Program
- Producer training is required for LTC sales
Last updated: January 2026
South Carolina Disability and Long-Term Care Insurance
South Carolina regulates disability and long-term care insurance under Title 38 of the Code of Laws.
Disability Income Insurance
Policy Requirements
| Provision | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Free Look Period | 10 days |
| Grace Period | Minimum 31 days |
| Reinstatement | Within 3 years |
| Notice of Claim | Within 20 days |
| Proof of Loss | Within 90 days |
Unfair Discrimination
Under Section 38-57-130, insurers cannot make unfair discrimination:
- Between individuals of the same class
- Of essentially the same hazard
- In premium, policy fees, or rates
Long-Term Care Insurance
Free Look Period
- 30-day free look for LTC policies
- Full refund of premiums if returned
- Begins upon policy delivery
Required Provisions
| Provision | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Renewability | Must be guaranteed renewable |
| Pre-existing Conditions | Maximum 6-month look-back |
| Inflation Protection | Must offer option |
| Nonforfeiture | Must offer option |
South Carolina Partnership Program
South Carolina participates in the Long-Term Care Partnership Program:
- Purchase a Partnership-qualified LTC policy
- Use benefits for care
- If benefits exhaust, apply for Medicaid
- Asset protection - Keep assets equal to benefits received
Producer Training
To sell LTC insurance in South Carolina:
- Complete required LTC-specific training
- Training must be completed before selling
- Ongoing education requirements apply
Test Your Knowledge
How long is the free look period for long-term care insurance in South Carolina?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is the primary benefit of the South Carolina Long-Term Care Partnership Program?
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