Our Ratings represent the best long-term-care policies in the database of Weiss Ratings that are available in California. They may provide a good starting point for your own search.

Start by calling your state department of insurance, and ask for a list of companies that sell long-term-care coverage.

Narrow the field by eliminating companies with a Weiss rating below B+. If you use another ratings service, like A.M. Best or Moody’s, eliminate companies not rated above B.

Exclude plans that do not carry an inflation guard that increases your benefit by 5 percent compounded annually.

Don’t choose a policy with an elimination period longer than 30 days unless you think you will have money saved to pay for a longer period.

To lower premiums, choose a 4-year benefit period. Then consider whether premiums fit in your budget.