Deferred Payment Agreement

(DPA)

A Deferred Payment Agreement is a legal arrangement with the local council that allows a person to delay paying care home fees by using the value of their home as security. The council pays the fees and recovers the debt, plus interest, when the property is eventually sold. The council must offer a DPA if the person meets the eligibility criteria under the Care Act 2014.

Related terms

Care Needs AssessmentFinancial Assessment (Care)Deprivation of Assets

Related guides

Deferred Payment Agreements

A Deferred Payment Agreement (DPA) is an arrangement with your local council that allows you to delay paying some or all of your care home fees until after your death or when you choose to sell your home. It prevents you from having to sell your property immediately to fund care.

5 min

Back to glossary