Residential Care Costs
Unlocking Financial Assistance and Simplifying the Application Process
The cost of residential care can be daunting. We help you understand the subsidies and loans available and guide you through the application process.
Residential Care Subsidies and Loans
Financial assistance is available to help meet the cost of long-term residential care in New Zealand.
If you are over 50 and are assessed as needing long-term residential care in a hospital or rest home, you may be able to get a Residential Care Subsidy. The cost of residential care is expensive and can be difficult to manage — subsidies and loans are designed to ease the financial burden.
If you are under 50, you do not qualify for the Residential Care Subsidy and will need to contact your District Health Board directly.
If you are aged 50–64 and single with no dependent children, you automatically meet the assets test, but there is an income test. If you are under 65 and have a partner, there is no income or assets test.
Understanding Your Options
Residential Care Subsidy
A payment made by Work and Income directly to the residential care provider to cover some or all of the cost of care. The amount depends on the value of the applicant's assets and income. The subsidy is means-tested — your eligibility depends on your financial situation.
Residential Care Loan
Available for those who are asset-rich (they own their home) but cash-poor. The loan is interest-free and is repaid when the applicant sells their home or passes away. This allows you to access care without having to sell your home immediately.
How We Help
Assess Your Eligibility
We review your financial situation and explain whether you qualify for a subsidy, a loan, or both.
Prepare Your Application
We guide you through the application process and help you gather the documents you need.
Ongoing Support
We help you understand the financial implications and ensure your interests are protected throughout.