# Can the council take my house to pay for care fees in the UK?

> Quick answer · Last updated 26 May 2026

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## In short

Not in the literal sense. The local authority means-tests your assets when you enter residential care. Above the upper capital limit (£23,250 in England) you pay in full; your home is included unless a spouse, dependent child, or relative aged 60+ still lives there.

If you receive care at home (not residential), the value of your home is always disregarded. Only other capital and income count.

On entering residential care, a 12-week property disregard normally applies at the start to give time to plan. After that, the home is counted unless a qualifying relative still lives there.

A 'Deferred Payment Agreement' lets you delay paying the home's contribution by securing it against the property — the council recovers the amount (with modest interest) when the property is eventually sold, usually after death.

## Related

- [Care home fees and deprivation of assets](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/care-home-fees-and-deprivation-of-assets/)
- [Lasting power of attorney](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/lasting-power-of-attorney/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/government/publications/care-act-statutory-guidance/care-and-support-statutory-guidance

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.