Understanding aged care costs and funding

1. Identify the support being priced

Start with the actual service needed: what help, how often, for how long and in which setting. A quote is easier to compare when it describes the same support as the other options you are considering.

Separate care costs from accommodation, meals, equipment, transport and optional extras. Ask whether a quoted amount is an estimate or a confirmed price.

Prepare a simple record

Service and provider name
Amount, frequency and what is included
One-off charges and ongoing charges
Funding or insurance being considered
What the person would pay themselves

Explore the detailed guides

2. Ask for clear written information

Ask the provider and the relevant programme or insurer to explain what applies to the person’s circumstances. Confirm answers before relying on funding in a budget.

What is included in the price?
What could be charged separately?
Does the price change at weekends or overnight?
Are there cancellation, travel or administration charges?
Who confirms eligibility and payment?
What happens while an application is being considered?
When can fees change, and how will we be told?

Keep copies of quotes and agreements. If a term is unclear, ask for a plain-English explanation before signing.

3. Choose the right country pathway

Australia: start with the relevant My Aged Care pathway and ask how charges would be worked out for the proposed care.

United States: ask the service and relevant funding body or insurer to confirm coverage, authorisation requirements and personal costs.

Before deciding

Compare the full written cost alongside the quality, availability and suitability of support. For advice about an individual financial arrangement, seek an appropriately qualified adviser.

Care at home · Residential care

Country relevance: Australia and United States. Updated September 2026. This checklist helps you ask questions; it does not calculate eligibility, benefits or personal fees and is not financial advice.