What is counted
Each year in care, 7.5% of the value of the home is added to your contribution, after the €36,000 allowance if it has not already been used against savings. After three years the home is excluded and your contribution falls. The most that can ever be charged against the home is 22.5% of its value (11.25% for a couple).
What you do not have to do
You do not have to sell. You do not have to pay the home portion now. You do not have to move your spouse out. You can rent the house out and the rent is not counted. You can leave it empty. The house stays in your name.
If you choose to sell anyway
Some families do sell, to release money or because the house is empty. If you sell within the three years, the proceeds are counted in the same way the house was, for the remainder of the three years, and then excluded. If you sell after the three years, it makes no difference to your contribution. If you are relying on the nursing home loan, the charge on the property is settled from the sale.
Questions families ask
My mother has dementia and cannot sign. Can the house still be protected?
Yes, but someone needs legal authority to apply on her behalf: an enduring power of attorney if one exists, or a decision-making representative appointed through the Circuit Court. Start that early.
Will the HSE take the house after she dies?
No. The estate repays the deferred amount, which is never more than 22.5% of the value. The family can pay it from other funds and keep the house.
What if she gave the house to me last year?
Property transferred within five years of the application is counted as if she still owned it.