Understanding how to fund home care
Caring for yourself or a loved one at home is a personal decision, but understanding how to fund that care can feel overwhelming. We’re here to guide you through the options, so you can make informed, confident choices.
We have decades of experience navigating the funding landscape, and we know what is and isn’t available for each individual client. Please give us a call and we’ll be happy to guide you through the options.
Which benefits can help pay for care?
Home care can be paid for through benefits such as Attendance Allowance, NHS Continuing Healthcare, local authority funding (including Direct Payments), a Personal Health Budget, or privately. This page explains each option, who it is for and how to apply. Many older people and their families miss out on benefits that could make a real difference to their independence and wellbeing.
Attendance Allowance
For people over State Pension age who need personal care or supervision because of a physical or mental disability. Not means-tested, and it can be used to help fund home care.
From April 2026: £76.70 a week (lower rate) or £114.60 a week (higher rate).
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
For people under State Pension age who need help with daily living or getting around because of a long-term illness or disability. Not means-tested.
From April 2026: daily living £76.70 or £114.60 a week; mobility £30.30 or £80.00 a week (lower or higher rate).
Carer’s Allowance
If you care for someone for at least 35 hours a week and they receive certain disability benefits, you may qualify.
From April 2026: £86.45 a week.
Pension Credit
If you are over State Pension age and on a low income, Pension Credit can top up your income and unlock other benefits.
From April 2026: guaranteed minimum income of £238.00 a week for a single person, or £363.25 for a couple.
Other help you may be entitled to
- Council Tax discount (for people with dementia)
- Free TV licence (over-75s on Pension Credit)
- Blue Badge
- Free or discounted public transport
Not sure what you’re entitled to?
Age UK’s free Benefits Calculator takes a few minutes and shows which benefits you may be able to claim.
Rates are for the 2026/27 tax year, as at April 2026. Source: GOV.UK, Benefit and pension rates 2026 to 2027. We check these every April.
Will the NHS pay for home care?
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
The most comprehensive type of NHS funding. If you qualify, your care costs could be covered in full by the NHS, whatever your income or savings. Ask your GP for a Continuing Healthcare Checklist to see whether you might be eligible for a full assessment.
NHS Continuing Healthcare, GOV.UK
How the process works in Kent, and why daily care records matter. Read our article on NHS Continuing Healthcare
Personal Health Budgets
A Personal Health Budget lets you tailor your NHS-funded care to your needs, with more flexibility and control, including choosing All About Home Care as your provider.
Can the council help pay for home care?
Under the Care Act 2014, local authorities must assess anyone who appears to have care or support needs. After a needs assessment, a financial assessment works out how much, if anything, the council will contribute.
If your assets total less than £23,250, you may be eligible for partial or full local authority funding.
Nationally, about 1 in 4 people (24%) who receive homecare in England pay for it themselves, and the £23,250 capital threshold has not changed in 15 years (CQC, State of Care 2025/26).
Direct Payments
If you qualify for local authority funding, you can ask for Direct Payments, which let you choose All About Home Care as your provider. In our area: Kent County Council Adult Social Care.
Apply for a needs assessment, GOV.UK
Funded dementia respite in Kent
For people living with dementia in Kent, it may be possible to get funded respite care through Involve Kent. It’s worth contacting them directly to find out what’s available.
How do I pay for care privately?
If you don’t qualify for local authority or NHS support, you can still arrange care privately, through savings, pension income or equity release.
What does home care cost?
Every care plan is different, so we don’t publish a price list. The cost depends on the type of care, how often it’s needed and at what times. Call us on 01892 575 499 for a free, no-obligation assessment and a personalised quote. We’ll always be clear about costs, with no hidden fees.
The next step is a conversation
Call us on 01892 575 499 or fill in our form and we’ll arrange a free, no-obligation care assessment at home.
Or email enquiries@allabouthomecare.co.uk, or