Your Entitlement

Even if you have to pay your own fees, you could be entitled to certain benefits that are not means-tested (rates below are for 2009-10).

• NHS funding for nursing care If you live in England or Wales and qualify, you get a flat rate of £106.30 a week in England and £119.66 in Wales, paid directly to the nursing home.

• Attendance allowance This is paid to over-65s, including self-funded care-home residents, who need help with personal care, such as washing or dressing. It is not normally paid if the local authority is paying for the care home. The rates are £47.10 a week where care is needed day or night, and £70.35 a week where it is needed for both (2009/10 rates).

• Disability living allowance You may claim the care component of this (£47.10 or £70.35 a week), depending on the level of help you need. You also receive the mobility component (£18.65 or £49.10 a week - 2009/10 rates) if you were claiming this before entering the care home.