What are the main ways to pay for my care?

You can pay for care through self-funding, local authority funding, NHS Continuing Healthcare, NHS-funded nursing care, and top-up fees provided by a relative or friend. Each option depends on your financial situation and specific care needs.

What is self-funding, and how does it work?

Self-funding means paying for your care out of your own pocket using savings, income, or assets. This option provides the most flexibility and control over the care services you select.

How does local authority funding work?

Local authority funding is based on a means test that assesses your income, savings, and assets. If you qualify, the local authority may cover some or all of your care costs, depending on your financial situation.

What is NHS Continuing Healthcare?

NHS Continuing Healthcare is a package of care arranged and funded by the NHS for individuals with significant ongoing health needs. If you qualify, the NHS will cover all your care costs, including those in a care home.

What is the difference between NHS Continuing Healthcare and NHS-funded nursing care?

NHS Continuing Healthcare covers all care costs for individuals with complex medical conditions. In contrast, NHS-funded nursing care provides a contribution towards the cost of nursing care in a care home but does not cover the entire cost of care.

What are top-up fees?

Top-up fees are additional payments made by a relative or friend when the care home fees exceed the amount the local authority is willing to pay. This ensures you can stay in your preferred care home.

How is my financial contribution to care determined?

Your financial contribution is determined through a means test conducted by your local council. This assessment considers your income, savings, and assets to determine how much you should contribute to your care costs. More information about financial assessments (means test) for social care can be found on the NHS website .

Will my home be included in the means test?

Yes, your home is typically considered an asset in the means test. However, there are exceptions, such as the 12-week property disregard period, where the value of your home is not considered immediately.

What is the 12-week property disregard?

The 12-week property disregard allows you a grace period where the value of your home is not considered in the means test when you first move into a care home. This gives you time to decide whether to sell or use other financial solutions without immediate pressure.

What is a Deferred Payment Agreement?

A Deferred Payment Agreement allows you to defer care costs against the value of your home. Your local council pays for your care, and you repay the amount later, typically from the proceeds of selling your home.

Am I eligible for Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is available to individuals over State Pension age who need help with personal care due to a disability. It can help cover care costs and may increase eligibility for other financial support like Pension Credit or Housing Benefit. More information about Attendance Allowance can be found on the gov.uk website .

What is Carer’s Allowance, and who can claim it?

Carer’s Allowance is a benefit for people who provide regular and substantial care to someone with significant needs. If you care for a partner, friend, or relative who would struggle without your support, you may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance. Learn more about the support that is available for unpaid carers . More information about Carer's Allowance can be found on the gov.uk website .

What should I do if my savings run out?

When your savings run out, you may be eligible for local authority funding if your capital/assets fall below the upper limit (£23,250 in England). If your assets drop below the lower limit (£14,250), the local authority will cover your care fees entirely.

How can I get more advice on paying for care?

Paying for care can be complicated, so it’s advisable to seek independent financial advice and explore all available options. Many organisations, including local care support services and official government websites, offer guidance and support to help you make informed decisions. For more detailed information and personalised advice, visit the official gov.uk website or contact the adult social care team in your area.

Help and advice

How do I pay for my care?

7 minutes

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Webpage last updated: 8 July 2025

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What are the main ways to pay for my care?

What is self-funding, and how does it work?

How does local authority funding work?

What is NHS Continuing Healthcare?

What is the difference between NHS Continuing Healthcare and NHS-funded nursing care?

What are top-up fees?

How is my financial contribution to care determined?

Will my home be included in the means test?

What is the 12-week property disregard?

What is a Deferred Payment Agreement?

Am I eligible for Attendance Allowance?

What is Carer’s Allowance, and who can claim it?

What should I do if my savings run out?

How can I get more advice on paying for care?

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