Applying for Subsidies Made Easy: A Guide to Elderly Care Allowances and Carer Support Schemes

The financial pressure of caring for an elderly loved one can be overwhelming. Making good use of various elderly care allowances and carer support schemes can effectively reduce the caregiving burden. Below is a summary of key resources to help you apply for subsidies with ease.

① Old Age Living Allowance (OALA)

Designed for people aged 65 or above with financial needs. The monthly allowance is HK$4,250, with an additional half-month payment. Applicants must pass an income and assets test: for a single person, monthly income not exceeding HK$10,770 and total assets not exceeding HK$406,000; for a married couple, monthly income not exceeding HK$16,440 and total assets not exceeding HK$608,000. Notably, the cash value of insurance policies is exempt from assets calculation, providing convenience for elders who hold certain insurance products. For those aged 70 or above whose assets or income exceed the limits, the non‑means‑tested Old Age Allowance ("fruit money") is available at HK$1,641 per month.

② Community Care Service Voucher (CCSV) Scheme

Enables elders to age in place within their familiar community. The quota for 2025–26 has increased to 12,000 vouchers. Eligible elders need to pay as little as HK$219 to receive services worth HK$4,372, covering rehabilitation exercises, home services, escort services, and meals. Applicants must be assessed as suitable for community care under the Standardised Care Need Assessment Mechanism for Elderly Services and be on the Central Waiting List for subsidised services. Elders may use two accredited service providers simultaneously, flexibly combining day care centre and home‑based services – truly achieving "self‑selected service packages, purchase on demand."

③ Carer Allowance Scheme

Successfully regularised from a pilot scheme, the monthly allowance has been increased from HK$2,400 to HK$3,000. Applicants must come from low‑income families (assets not counted), provide no less than 80 hours of care per month to an elder, and the care recipient must be on the Central Waiting List for long‑term care services and living in the community. The Social Welfare Department will issue invitation letters to eligible elders in batches, and their carers can apply using those letters. Only one carer may claim the allowance for the same elder; if multiple carers are involved, they must reach an agreement among themselves. After successful application, the carer must meet regularly with a social worker from an accredited service unit and receive support services.

Practical Resources

For further assistance, call the 24‑hour Carer Support Hotline 182 183, where professional social workers provide immediate consultation, counselling, and referral services. You can also visit the Carer Information Website (carers.hk) for one‑stop access to community activities and caregiving tips. Make good use of these subsidies and support services to make your caregiving journey more stable and secure.