# Work and Income - Web Capture - Residential Care Loan

**Document ID:** doc-0098
**Source organisation:** Work and Income
**Publication date:** Undated (living guidance)
**Publisher’s stated update date:** 23 July 2026
**Independently checked:** 8 October 2026
**Evidence:** Official guidance; Official primary

## Summary

An interest-free Crown loan secured over a home can help eligible residents fund care while retaining their property, subject to individual approval.

## Key facts

- The loan is interest-free and paid to the rest home, with a caveat registered over the home.
- The source lists a home asset threshold above $300,811 and other assets below $15,000 single or $30,000 partnered.
- Applicants begin with a needs assessment; approval is considered case by case.
- Repayment is due when the home is sold or within 12 months after death, whichever comes first.
- Late repayment may attract 10% annual interest; this is distinct from the interest-free loan during its agreed term.

## Next step

Check subsidy eligibility first, then discuss the loan with your needs assessor and solicitor. Residential Subsidy Unit: 0800 999 727.

## Sources and scope

[Work and Income: official resource](https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/residential-care-loan.html) — accessed 8 October 2026.

Undated living guidance; source update shown as 23 July 2026. Thresholds were checked on 8 October 2026; eligibility and loan obligations require individual assessment.

This brief is an original paraphrase of the linked public resources, not a verbatim web capture.