1. If the plan is for residential care, establish if anyone else is dealing with the person’s financial affairs.

Be aware of the roles and duties relating to Appointeeship, Power of attorney, Court of Protection Receivership Orders. (see Guidance on “What are distinctions between Appointeeship, Power of Attorney and Court of Protection Receivership Orders”)

2. Provide information about the financial assessment process. Give the service user or their representative a copy of the leaflet Charges for Our Services Ref 2.

3. If the service user has savings and / or capital assets in excess of the upper capital threshold (this will be advised each year by means of a Finance Circular) then advise him / her that the agreed cost of the service will apply.

4. If the service user has savings and / or capital assets of less than the upper capital threshold explain the financial assessment process and advise the service user that the assessment will be calculated by Client Finance Services and they will be advised by letter of their weekly contribution.  

Note – the Locality team will also get a copy of any correspondence sent to the service user.

5. Help the service user or their representative to complete a SS280 (Financial Assessment Form) and any other appropriate forms, if further verification of financial information is required (see “How do I undertake a financial assessment?”).

6. Send the original copy of all completed form(s) to Client Finance Services at County Hall. And place a copy on the service user’s file.

7 If it appears that the service user may be eligible for additional benefits such as Pension Credit or Attendance Allowance (in the case of a person required to pay for the full cost of the service); help the service user complete a claim form.

8. If the service user receives a bill for their assessed contribution, explain what  payment options are available.