RELEASE ON RECEIPT - December 21, 2006

Congress Supports Long Term Care Through Expanded Health Savings Accounts

Individuals and Businesses Can More Easily Afford Protection, Says Expert Barbara Hanson of Felton

Felton, CA, December 21 – Before adjourning on the 9th, Congress passed the Tax Relief and Health Care Act (H.R. 6111), which expands the sources and amounts that may be contributed to Health Savings Accounts (HSA's). This is good news for those seeking long term care protection but unsure how to finance it, according to Barbara Hanson of LTC Financial Partners, the nation's most experienced long term care insurance brokerage.

HSA's are tax-advantaged savings accounts restricted to health-related purposes. Funds may be withdrawn tax-free to pay for long term care (LTC) insurance, deductibles, co-insurance, and dental and vision care. Key provisions of the new law include --

• Expansion of the maximum amount that may be contributed annually.
• The addition of new funding sources, such as one-time transfers from individual retirement accounts (IRA's).
• Permitting employers to make extra contributions for lower-paid workers.

"What this means," says Hanson, "is that millions of Americans will have a painless way to protect their wellbeing, lifestyles, and assets in case they encounter longer-lasting health problems."

Those without an HSA may set one up through a bank, credit union, insurance company, or other approved organization. Employers may also set up plans for their employees.

LTC Financial Partners has established alliances with banks and major employers that make HSA's available to their clients or employees. "Working with our alliance partners," says Hanson, "we are a gateway to the full range of LTC and financial advice, including HSA assistance." Experts are available in all parts of the country to answer questions. Based in Felton, Hanson is leading the effort locally.

Barbara Hanson has specialized in long term care insurance since 1995 and earned the respected status of Master Agent Emeritus from one of the largest long term care insurance carriers in the industry. Today, as an independent agent representing all major carriers, she is ideally positioned to help individuals, families, and businesses design customized long term care strategies to fit their budget. She has served her community as an active member of the Chamber of Commerce and is a major supporter of her local Alzheimer’s Association. Having had extensive personal experience with long term care in her previous career as an activity director in long term care facilities as well as in her own family, Hanson understands the challenges people face when a friend or family member needs help to stay home safely.

She has helped over 1,000 families plan for the potentially devastating financial risk associated with long term health care problems. Barbara shares her expertise through public seminars, guest media appearances, corporate education, and individual consultations.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Barbara Hanson of LTC Financial Partners, Felton, CA - 831-335-4949 - www.eranova.com/LTCFP-BarbaraHanson
Jonas Roeser, Marketing Director, LTC Financial Partners - 425-284-4863
Dick Samson of EraNova Institute for LTC Financial Partners - 973-335-3699 – media@eranova.com

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Photo of Barbara Hanson: