Means assessment of assets

The means assessment of assets determines if a client's assets are equal to or below the applicable threshold and only applies to clients aged 65 years or over.

Note clients aged between 50 and 64 years who are single with no dependent children are automatically determined as having assets equal to or below the threshold.

Assets are included in the means assessment if they are able to be realised by the client or their partner (if any).

Clients, who have assets equal to or below the threshold, are considered financially eligible and must have an income assessment to determine the amount they are required to contribute to the cost of their care.

If their assets are above the threshold they are not eligible for Residential Care Subsidy and must pay for the cost of their contracted care, up to the maximum contribution set for their region by the Ministry of Health. The client can apply for a review of their means assessment or reapply if any circumstances have changed.