Accueil >
Residential Home / Nursing Home > Will the NHS will pay for my care home?
When considering state-funded care, one of the key steps is undergoing a financial assessment by the local authority. This assessment determines whether a senior qualifies for financial assistance to help cover the costs of care. Understanding the steps involved can help families prepare and ensure a smooth process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each stage of the local authority financial assessment, including what to expect, documents to prepare, and tips to navigate this process successfully.
The local authority financial assessment, also known as a means test, evaluates an individual’s financial situation—including income, savings, and assets—to determine eligibility for financial assistance with care home or home care fees. This assessment is essential for those seeking support from their local council to cover the costs of residential or at-home care.
Find YOUR ideal care home NOW!
Before the assessment, it’s important to gather documents and information about your loved one’s finances. This will ensure that you’re ready to provide accurate information when the local authority reviews their financial eligibility.
Why this matters: Having these documents ready will make the process faster and ensure that you can provide accurate, comprehensive information to the assessor.
The means test evaluates your loved one’s income and assets to determine if they meet the financial threshold for state-funded care. In England, the threshold is £23,250 in assets; those with assets above this amount are usually expected to self-fund their care.
In addition to the financial assessment, a care needs assessment is conducted to confirm the level of care required. This assessment focuses on the individual’s physical, mental, and emotional needs and determines whether they meet the criteria for state-funded support.
Why this matters: Both financial and care needs assessments are required to qualify for local authority funding, ensuring that funding is reserved for those with significant needs.
If your loved one qualifies for partial funding, the local authority will calculate how much they must contribute toward their care costs. This amount depends on their available income and assets, and the remaining costs will be covered by the local council.
Example calculation:
If an individual has £18,000 in savings, the “tariff income” calculation would be as follows:
Why this matters: Understanding how contributions are calculated helps families prepare for any financial responsibilities they may need to cover.
During the assessment, certain expenses related to healthcare or disabilities may be deducted from your loved one’s income, reducing the amount they must contribute toward their care.
Why this matters: These deductions help ensure that necessary expenses are accounted for, allowing the individual to retain enough income for essential health-related costs.
Once the financial and care needs assessments are complete, the local authority will provide a decision detailing eligibility and the amount of financial assistance offered. If approved, a care plan will outline the services and support the individual is eligible to receive.
Why this matters: Reviewing the decision carefully ensures that families understand the financial commitments and the support available to their loved one.
Local authorities typically conduct regular reviews of financial and care needs to ensure ongoing eligibility for funding. These reviews may be conducted annually or sooner if there are changes in the individual’s health or financial situation.
Why this matters: Regular reviews help ensure that individuals receive appropriate levels of care funding as their circumstances evolve.
Region | Savings Threshold (Full Funding) | Savings Threshold (Partial Funding) |
---|---|---|
England | Below £14,250 | Between £14,250 and £23,250 |
Scotland | Below £20,250 | Between £20,250 and £32,750 |
Wales | Below £24,000 | Between £24,000 and £50,000 |
Northern Ireland | Below £14,250 | Between £14,250 and £23,250 |
The local authority financial assessment process can seem complex, but thorough preparation and a clear understanding of each step can make it more manageable. By gathering essential documents, understanding the means test, and preparing for regular reviews, families can navigate the assessment with confidence and ensure that their loved one receives the necessary support.
We are here to help you choose a care home or facility best suited to your needs. Do not hesitate to contact us on the following number: 0230 608 0055 or fill out this form.
1. What is a financial assessment?
A financial assessment is conducted by your local authority to determine whether you qualify for financial support for care home or in-home care costs. It evaluates your income, savings, and assets.
2. Who needs a financial assessment?
Anyone seeking financial help from the local authority for care services must undergo a financial assessment.
3. What documents are needed for a financial assessment?
You will need proof of income (e.g., pension statements), bank statements, property details, and records of expenses such as medical bills or utility costs.
4. What savings thresholds apply to care funding?
5. Does my home count as an asset in the financial assessment?
Your home may be included if no qualifying dependent (e.g., a spouse) lives there. However, temporary stays in a care home usually exclude your property from the assessment.
6. Are state benefits included in the assessment?
Yes, most state benefits, such as Pension Credit, are included. However, disability-related benefits, like Attendance Allowance, may be excluded.
7. How do local authorities calculate my contribution?
The assessment combines your income, savings, and assets to determine how much you need to contribute toward care costs. A personal allowance is usually retained for daily expenses.
8. What if I disagree with the financial assessment outcome?
You can appeal the decision. Contact your local authority, provide supporting evidence, and request a review.
9. What happens if my savings fall below the threshold?
You may become eligible for more financial support. Notify your local authority to reassess your eligibility.
10. How can I prepare for a financial assessment?
Gather all relevant documents, understand your local savings thresholds, and list your expenses to ensure an accurate evaluation.
Find a suitable care home for your loved one