Do I pay for my care

Financial Assessment (means test)

Financial assessments are a key component of determining how much an individual will need to contribute towards their care. These assessments take into account an individual's income, savings, and assets, and are used to determine the level of financial support they may be entitled to receive from the Council.

• If you have savings of less than £23,250, the council will generally help towards the cost of care. 
• If you have savings of more than £23,250, It may be that you'll have to pay towards the cost of your care. The more money you have, the more you'll be expected to pay.

The financial assessment is free and happens after a needs assessment or a carer's assessment. You don't need to get a financial assessment yourself.

Click below to visit the pages for more information of a

• Needs assessment (Opens in new window)
• Carer's assessment (Opens in new window)

Can I spend money to help lower my savings?

You can spend your money but be aware that it will not always go in your best interest,

• If the council thinks you have reduced your wealth on purpose, it might stop you from getting any financial help.
• The assessment can ask you about things you used to own.

How to prepare for a financial assessment

The first step in the process of a financial assessment is to contact Nottingham city council social services department. They will guide you through the process of setting up an appointment for a financial assessment.

What happens during a financial assessment

During the assessment, a social worker or financial assessor will meet with you to discuss your financial circumstances. This will include an examination of your income, such as your pension or other benefits, mortgage payments or bills, as well as any savings or assets you may have.

These expenses will be taken into consideration when determining how much you may need to contribute towards your care

What happens after the financial assessment

Following the means test, your council will provide you with written statement outlining their findings. This statement will include information on the amount of financial support you may be entitled to receive, as well as details on any charges that may apply.

Financial Support

While Nottingham City Council will provide financial support towards your care, you may still need to contribute towards the cost of your care. This will depend on your individual circumstances, and we will work with you to determine a fair and affordable contribution.

If you qualify for financial support, Nottingham City Council will provide you with a personal budget, which you can spend on care costs.

You can either receive money through direct payments into your bank account each month or have the council organise the care for you, which they will bill you for.

If the financial assessment shows that you do not qualify for help with home care costs, you must pay for all the costs yourself.

• More information can be found at Financial assessment (means test) for social care - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Changes in my Financial Circumstances

At this point, you may be wondering what happens if your financial circumstances change. It's important to let us know as soon as possible if there are any changes to your income or assets, as this may impact the level of financial support you are entitled to receive.