How long can the elimination period typically last?

The elimination period in the context of insurance, particularly for disability insurance or long-term care insurance, is the time between when a policyholder becomes eligible for benefits and when those benefits actually begin to be paid out. This period serves as a deductible period during which the insured is responsible for covering their own expenses.

The duration of the elimination period can vary, but it is commonly set around 90 days, reflecting the time frame where policyholders may need to use their savings or other resources before receiving financial assistance from the insurer. While the period can extend up to one year depending on the specific policy and coverage options chosen, the 90-day mark is typically recognized as a standard timeframe in the industry.

This option effectively highlights the reasonable expectation of how long a policyholder may need to wait before benefits commence, in alignment with common industry practices. The flexibility in the elimination period allows individuals to select a duration that matches their personal financial situation and risk preferences when they initially set up their insurance coverage.