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MetLife's long-term care insurance earns a low 1.3/5 rating from over 1,200 customer reviews. We analyze common complaints like premium hikes and claim denials, plus coverage details and better alternatives for your peace of mind in 2024.
Quick Pick
For reliable long-term protection, skip MetLife and explore our top-rated options in the Best Life Insurance guide – many include LTC riders without the hassle.
Long-term care (LTC) insurance is designed to cover costs for services like nursing homes, in-home care, and assisted living when you can't manage daily activities independently. MetLife, a major player since 2005, offers policies with benefit periods from 2 years to lifetime and monthly payouts from $1,500 to $10,000. They also provide shared-care options for couples and coverage for hospice, memory care, and respite services.
However, customer satisfaction is alarmingly low. Aggregated data from 1,281 reviews shows an average rating of just 1.3 out of 5 stars. Over 85% of feedback is 1-star, highlighting frustrations that could impact your financial planning. In this review, we'll break down real customer experiences, key policy features, and actionable advice to help you decide if MetLife fits – or if alternatives are smarter.
Here's how MetLife stacks up against typical LTC industry standards based on policy details and review trends:
| Feature | MetLife LTC | Industry Average | Customer Rating Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Benefit Range | $1,500 - $10,000 | $2,000 - $8,000 | Neutral |
| Benefit Periods | 2 years to lifetime | 3-5 years typical | Positive |
| Premium Increase Frequency | Reported 5-10x over 10-15 years | 2-4x over decade | Major Negative |
| Claim Denial Rate (per reviews) | ~40% of complaints | 20-30% industry | Major Negative |
| Customer Service Score | 1.2/5 from reviews | 3.5/5 average | Major Negative |
| Post-2020 Servicing | Handled by Reinsurance Group of America | N/A | Mixed |
This table reveals MetLife's strengths in flexibility but underscores pain points like escalating costs and service issues.
Check our MetLife Disability Insurance Reviews for more on their broader offerings.
Reviewers from 2007-2024 report premiums rising 5-10 times, often doubling or tripling. One policyholder noted seven increases since 2007, turning a $150/month premium into $400+. Inflation protection riders exacerbate this, with annual hikes of 5-10%. Data shows 60% of negative reviews cite costs as the primary issue.
Pros of Premiums:
Cons of Premiums:
About 30% of 1-star reviews detail denied claims, even for documented needs like Alzheimer's care or post-stroke home health. Families report 3-6 month delays, with requirements for excessive paperwork. One reviewer shared their mother's claim rejection despite hospice eligibility.
Pros of Claims:
Cons of Claims:
Scores average 1.2/5, with complaints of long hold times (45+ minutes), unhelpful reps, and lost documents. Post-2020 sale to Brookfield Life Annuity Company (dba Reinsurance Group of America), some note smoother servicing, but others face confusion over new contacts.
Overall Sentiment Breakdown:
Pros:
Cons:
If these cons concern you, consider policies with guaranteed premiums or hybrid life/LTC options.
MetLife divested its individual LTC block in May 2020. Current policyholders get servicing letters from Reinsurance Group of America. New policies aren't available directly from MetLife – shop elsewhere for fresh coverage. This shift has mixed reviews: some praise streamlined admin, others report transition glitches.
Don't let low ratings deter your planning. Look for insurers with:
Next Step: Discover top-rated plans in our Best Life Insurance guide, where many bundle LTC benefits seamlessly.
For broader protection:
Shopping Tips:
Policies include skilled nursing, assisted living, home health care, hospice, memory care, adult day care, and respite – with benefits from $1,500-$10,000 monthly.
Reviews show 5-10 hikes over 10-15 years due to inflation riders, claims experience, and rising care costs. No caps on some plans.
Yes, individual policies sold in 2020 to Reinsurance Group of America. Existing owners continue coverage; no new sales from MetLife.
Per 1,281 reviews, ~40% of complaints involve denials or delays, often over eligibility or documentation.
With 1.3/5 ratings, many advise against it. Opt for alternatives with better satisfaction and stable pricing.
It offers flexible periods/benefits but lags in premiums and service versus top-rated competitors.
Pair LTC planning with these essential guides:
Stay protected – explore today!
