When the council will pay for care
We will pay from the latest of these dates:
- The day you ask us for help (if you give us the proof we need).
- The day your savings go below £23,250.
- The day we get your proof (if you take longer to send it).
Important:
- If you ask for help after your savings are already below £23,250, we cannot refund care you’ve already paid for.
- Contact us when your savings are around £30,000 so we can plan ahead.
How to get help when savings are running low
- Call Staffordshire Cares on 0300 111 8010.
- Tell us you are running out of money and need help.
- We’ll check your care needs and send you a financial assessment form.
- Fill it in and return it with proof of your finances.
Other costs you should know about
- Administration fees: for example, £400 to set up care for a self‑funder, plus £3.50 a week to manage it.
- Deferred Payment Agreements: set‑up and legal fees if you use your home’s value to pay care costs.
- Deputyship/Appointeeship: fees set nationally if the council manages your finances.
Invoices and payments
- We invoice every 4 weeks once your care and financial assessment are in place.
- Direct Debit is the easiest way to pay.
- Tell us straight away if your care changes or you miss visits so we can adjust your bill.
- If you’re struggling to pay, contact us as soon as possible.
Need help?
Contact Staffordshire Cares:
- Telephone: 0300 111 8010
Contact the payments team:
- Telephone: 01785 276368
- Email: payments@staffordshire.gov.uk
