The Institute’s group long-term care insurance carrier, John Hancock, recently informed the Georgia Tech Benefits office that enrollment for this coverage will be discontinued effective January 1, 2012. John Hancock has advised Georgia Tech that they will no longer accept new entrants to the Institute policy due to the low interest rate environment that is expected to continue for an extended period.

If you wish to apply for this group long-term care insurance coverage, your application must be postmarked no later than December 31, 2011.

Please note, the decision not to accept new entrants does not in any way affect employees or dependents who already have this coverage. John Hancock will continue to provide ongoing service to insureds under our policy. At this time, the Georgia Tech Benefits team does not have any additional information about whether or when long-term care insurance may be available again in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is John Hancock closing down enrollments under our Group long-term care policy?

According to John Hancock, this decision was prompted by the historically low interest rate environment that is expected to continue for an extended period of time.

2. Will employees who are newly eligible be able to enroll after December 31, 2011?

No. The decision to cease new enrollments applies to all applicants.

3. For applicants who need to go through underwriting, does the underwriting need to be completed by December 31, 2011?

No. The enrollment application must be postmarked by December 31, 2011, but underwriting activities may take place in early 2012.

4. Will insureds be able to purchase optional inflation additions or other coverage increases after December 31, 2011?

Yes. The discontinuance of new enrollments does not affect inflation additions and other coverage increases or changes available under the policy.

5. Does this impact John Hancock's ability to pay claims?

No. John Hancock will continue to service all current insureds, and any current or future claims will not be affected by this action. John Hancock continues to be highly rated by the five rating agencies, and ratings are a comprehensive measure of the financial strength of an insurance company.

6. Who should I call if I have further questions?

Please call the John Hancock customer service line at 1-888-354-6498.