When the home counts, and when it doesn't
For most people moving permanently into a care home, the home is their biggest asset. Whether it counts in the means test depends mainly on who still lives there.
It's ignored for the first 12 weeks, and for as long as a spouse or partner, or a relative who is 60 or over or disabled, still lives there. Otherwise it's normally counted, which almost always means paying the full fees.
Counting the home doesn't always mean selling it straight away. Councils must offer a deferred payment agreement in many cases, where the fees are repaid from the home later.
What about planning ahead? There are legitimate steps families take, particularly couples, but they must be done for the right reasons and at the right time. Getting it wrong can make things worse. Speak to a specialist.
Frequently asked questions
Will I have to sell my house to pay for care?
Not necessarily. The home is ignored for the first 12 weeks of permanent care, and while a spouse, partner or qualifying relative lives there. If it does count, a deferred payment agreement can mean it isn't sold during your lifetime.
Can I give my house to my children to avoid care fees?
If the council decides you gave it away to avoid care fees, it can treat you as still owning it. This is called deprivation of assets, and there's no fixed time limit.
Does it matter how a couple owns the home?
It can. How the home is owned and what each person's will says affect what happens to each half of the home if one of you dies and the other later needs care.
Talk to a specialist
Tell us a little about your situation and a specialist will call you back, usually within one working day. No obligation, and we know these conversations can be difficult.