Residential Care Subsidy FAQ
Am I eligible for help paying for residential care?
If you or your loved one needs long-term residential care, you may be eligible for the Residential Care Subsidy. This government-funded subsidy helps cover the cost of contracted residential care in eligible rest homes, including Alden Care Homes.
The subsidy is designed for people who have been assessed as needing long-term residential care and who meet the government’s financial eligibility criteria. If approved, the subsidy is paid directly to your care provider, reducing the amount you need to pay yourself. (Government of New Zealand)
At Alden, we understand that applying for funding can feel overwhelming. While we don’t assess eligibility or approve applications, our team can guide you through the process, explain what to expect, and help connect you with the right organisations.
How do I qualify for a subsidy?
To be eligible for the Residential Care Subsidy, you’ll generally need to:
- Be assessed by Health New Zealand as requiring long-term residential care through a Needs Assessment.
- Meet the government’s income and asset eligibility criteria.
- Be eligible for publicly funded health and disability services in New Zealand.
Your eligibility is based on your individual circumstances, including your income, assets and, if applicable, your partner’s financial situation. Work and Income will assess your application before determining whether you qualify for assistance. (Government of New Zealand)
What is the subsidy application process?
The process usually involves four key steps:
- Arrange a Needs Assessment through your local Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) service or hospital team.
- Choose your preferred care home. Once you’ve been assessed as needing residential care, you can choose the care home that’s right for you, including an Alden Care Home.
- Apply for the Residential Care Subsidy through Work and Income, who will assess your financial eligibility.
- Receive a decision. If approved, the subsidy is paid directly to your care home to help cover the cost of your contracted care. (Government of New Zealand)
Who do I speak to about organising a subsidy?
The first step is to speak with your:
- GP or hospital discharge team OR
- Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) service OR
- Work and Income (for the financial application)
If you’re considering an Alden Care Home, our team is also happy to help explain the process, answer your questions and point you in the right direction. While we can’t determine your eligibility, we regularly support families through the admission and funding process.
What happens while Work and Income is processing my application for the Residential Care Subsidy?
You don’t need to wait for your application to be approved before moving into care if residential care is needed.
However, while Work and Income is assessing your application, you remain responsible for paying your care fees. Most residents use their own funds, NZ Superannuation, or other income to cover costs during this period. If your subsidy is approved, funding arrangements will then be applied in line with the government’s decision. (Government of New Zealand)
If your subsidy is approved, the subsidy is paid directly to the care home from the approved date.
Need help navigating the process?
Applying for residential care funding can seem complicated, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our experienced team can help explain the process, answer your questions and support you through each step.