TAX ALERT from Citrus Heights-based Experts Sandra and Bob Stanley

Don't Forget Deductions for Long Term Care Insurance Premiums

(EMAILWIRE.COM, March 27, 2008 ) Citrus Heights, California -- As the April 15 tax deadline looms, filers should not overlook the deductions allowed for long term care insurance, according to Citrus Heights-based Sandra Stanley and her partner Bob Stanley, Partners of LTC Financial Partners LLC, the nation’s most experienced long term care insurance agency.

"People with LTC policies can deduct substantial sums," says Sandra Stanley, "and those who don't have policies, but want them, can set themselves up now for deductions next year." According to the Internal Revenue Code, the 2008 deductible amounts can be as high as --

* $3,850 if you're 70 or over*
* $3,080 if you're over 60 but not over 70*
* $1,150 if you're over 50 but not over 60*
* $580 if you're over 40 but not over 50*
* $310 if you're 40 or under*

*Before end of taxable year, if medical expenses exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income

But the tax benefits may not end there. "When people start taking their benefits, there can be additional deductions in some cases," Stanley says. "When a policy is designed to pay on a per-diem basis, a limited portion of the benefits may be excluded from taxable income." Also, when a policy is paid for out of a Health Savings Account (HSA), there can be tax advantages. "HSA's are funded with pre-tax dollars, and long term care premiums are eligible medical expenses, according to the IRS (Publication 502)."

For businesses, the tax breaks can be especially attractive, Stanley says. "For example, when small business owners pay the premiums -- for employees or themselves -- it's generally deductible as a business expense." The self-employed, S-corporation owners, and C-corporation owners are NOT subject to the 7.5% rule that limits the medical-expense deductions of individual taxpayers.

LTCFP does not prepare tax returns or offer tax advice as part of its service, "but we team up with tax experts to make sure their clients have the benefit of our special knowledge," she says. "Nobody knows more about the economics of long term care insurance than we do, and we're glad to meet with anyone's accountant or tax attorney." LTCFP has formed strategic alliances with financial planning organizations including banks and the National Association of Estate Planning Attorneys.

How can you make sure you don't miss out on the deductions? "We're glad to consult with anyone's tax preparer," says Stanley. More than 400 LTCFP experts are available by phone or Internet. Requests for help, at no change, may be made at 916-961-8107, or http://www.ltcfp.us/sandrastanley

Sandra Stanley, a second-generation Californian, has been in the financial service industry since 1999. Her husband Bob, who was born and raised in the Sacramento area, has recently joined her in their family business. This family-oriented team offers expertise to seniors in particular, understanding their health needs as well as their financial concerns.

Representing all of the major top-rated insurance companies, Sandra and Bob are able to provide their clients with a variety of products that will satisfy their needs and concerns.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Dick Samson of EraNova Institute for LTC Financial Partners - 973-335-3699 – media@eranova.com