Paying Care Home Fees

Everyone makes some contribution towards their care home fees.  The amount of contribution you have to make depends upon several things, such as how much capital you have, and the care home you choose. 

If you move into a care home, you need to have an Assessment of your Care Needs, even if you have had one while living at home, as your circumstances have now changed. 

Some of the things you might need to think about:

Can I still get help if I have savings?
What happens to my home?
What about my personal and nursing care?
What type of contract do I need? 
What rate will I have to pay? 
Can my relatives be charged for my care home fees?
Can I keep some of my income for personal items? 
What if I choose a care home that charges more than the Local Authority will pay?
Does my home count as part of my capital? 
What if I give my house to a relative?
Can I postpone selling my house to pay my fees?

The rules regarding paying care home fees are complex.  If you need advice regarding your personal circumstances, the Citizen's Advice Bureaux have trained advisers who can help you.

 

last updated 17/04/2012