When one of a couple needs care, the rules give the partner at home some protection. The bigger risk often comes later, if the surviving partner needs care too.
When the first partner needs care
- The home is ignored while the other partner lives there.
- Only the person in care is assessed. Joint savings are usually treated as split equally.
- The partner at home doesn't have to pay from their own money.
When the survivor needs care
Many couples have wills leaving everything to each other and own the home jointly so it passes automatically. That's simple, but it can mean the survivor owns everything, and if they later need care, everything is assessed.
What couples can look at
How the home is owned, how each person's will is written and whether lasting powers of attorney are in place can all affect what is protected for the family. These steps are usually best taken while both partners are well, and they need to be done properly.
Planning as a couple? Speak to a specialist about protecting each other and your family.
Frequently asked questions
Is my husband's or wife's money counted for care fees?
No. Only the person needing care is assessed, on their own assets and their share of joint assets. The partner at home isn't required to pay.
Is the house counted if my wife or husband goes into care?
Not while you, as their spouse or partner, still live there.
What happens if the second partner needs care?
The home and savings they then own are assessed. If everything passed to them on the first death, the whole home may count. How the home is owned and the wills can make a difference.
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.