Can I save my Support at Home funding for a large future expense?
Only a limited amount of ongoing funding can roll over, so Support at Home is not designed for building a large long-term balance.
Key points
- Only a limited amount of ongoing funding can roll over, so Support at Home is not designed for building a large long-term balance.
- The person's support plan and circumstances determine how the rule applies.
- Current official guidance should be checked before an important decision.
Generally, no. Support at Home ongoing funding is intended to pay for the services you need during each three month budget period, rather than to build up a large balance over time.
At the end of a quarter, you can carry forward unused funding of up to $1,000 or 10% of your quarterly budget, whichever is greater. Any unused amount above that limit does not carry over.
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01Guide sectionWhat about equipment or home modifications?
You do not usually need to save your quarterly service budget for items such as:
mobility or safety equipment
personal alarms
shower chairs or other assistive products
ramps, rails and other eligible home modifications.
These are funded separately through the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications scheme, usually shortened to AT-HM. In fact, your ordinary quarterly Support at Home budget cannot be used to purchase AT-HM items, even when money remains available in that budget.
AT-HM funding is generally available for 12 months and must be used for approved items that address needs identified in your support plan. Therefore, if you anticipate a significant future expense, speak with your provider or My Aged Care early. If it involves assistive technology or a home modification, you may require an assessment or reassessment for separate AT-HM funding rather than trying to accumulate your quarterly service budget.
02Guide sectionWhat should I do next?
Check the person's Notice of Decision and support plan.
Ask the provider or My Aged Care to explain how the rule applies to this situation.
Keep the advice and any agreed changes in writing.
03Guide sectionHelpful Local Home Help resources
04Guide sectionCheck the official guidance
Check current official Support at Home guidance. Aged care rules, funding amounts and program guidance can change, so check the current official information before making an important care or financial decision.
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