Financial checklist for families

At a glance

Use this checklist to prepare for a care-cost discussion without rushing into financial decisions. Keep the older person involved and share records only with their consent or the appropriate authority. This is a document organiser, not advice about investments, benefits or legal rights.

Agree who is doing what

Name the person collecting quotes, the person following up funding and the person keeping records. Family involvement does not automatically give someone authority to manage money or sign an agreement. Ask a qualified local adviser about any uncertainty.

Plan your next steps

Gather and check

Current provider quotes, service agreements and proposed start dates.
Care assessment and funding letters, including relevant dates and conditions.
A summary of regular income, expenses and ongoing household commitments.
Details of insurance or benefits that may apply; mark unconfirmed claims.
Existing legal or decision-making documents, if relevant to the discussion.
Questions about accommodation payments, deposits, refunds and future increases.

Before agreeing to payments

Check the provider’s identity and payment instructions independently.
Confirm who is responsible for each bill and what they are agreeing to.
Ask for unclear terms to be explained in writing.
Discuss any family contribution, limit, reimbursement and review date.
Keep copies securely and record where the originals are held.

Questions and useful links

Do we need to send everything to the website?

No. This checklist is for your own preparation. Do not send account numbers, identity documents or detailed financial records through a general enquiry form. Ask the adviser or provider for a suitable secure process.

What needs professional advice?

Seek individual advice before selling property, transferring assets, borrowing or signing an unclear guarantee. Ask how fees, benefits and a partner’s circumstances could be affected.

Build a care budget · Australian costs · US costs

Sources and review

Original preparation checklist. Use current individual notices and written professional advice for decisions.

About this guide
Australia and United States • Prepared September 2026. Editorial lead: Louise Simon. Independent specialist review has not yet been completed. General information; confirm advice for your circumstances.