Deferred Payment Agreement
If you move into a care home and most of your money is tied up in your property, you might not have to sell your home straight away. A Deferred Payment Agreement (DPA) lets the council pay some of your care costs now and recover the money later – usually when your home is sold or from your estate.
How it works
- For the first 12 weeks in a care home, the value of your home is ignored in your financial assessment (this is called the 12‑week disregard).
- After that, if you own your home and have less than £23,250 in savings (not counting the property), you may be able to defer some or all of your care costs.
- The council places a legal charge on your property (like a mortgage) as security.
- You still pay what you can from your income and savings. The rest is added to your DPA balance.
Key things to know
- The money is not written off – it must be repaid later.
- Interest and admin fees apply (we’ll tell you the rates before you sign).
- You can rent out your home to reduce the amount you owe.
- You must keep the property insured and maintained.
- You should get independent financial advice before deciding.
When you repay
- When the property is sold, or
- Within 90 days of death (from the estate).
How to apply
We’ll discuss a DPA as part of your financial assessment if you qualify. To start the process, contact Staffordshire Cares on 0300 111 8010.
