Moving in with children and family

Moving in with family can seem like the ideal solution if you need support, want to spend more time with your grandchildren, or need to downsize. But it's important to be realistic and think about all your options before you move.

Will moving in with my family suit me?

In lots of cases moving in with family works well. But it’s important to think about it properly ahead of moving, and make sure you all have the same expectations.

If you're thinking about moving back in with your family, it's a good idea to consider the answers to the following questions:

• What sort of care will you need and who will be able to provide it for you?
• Will the home you're moving into need to be adapted? How will this be paid for?
• Will you pay rent or help towards bills?
• If your family members are claiming benefits, will these be affected?
• What would happen if you couldn't live there anymore, for example, if it doesn't work out or if you need to move into a care home?

If you invest in your relatives’ property or buy a property jointly, it might impact you if you have to have a financial assessment for assistance with care home fees or benefits in the future.

Find out more about paying for a care home

Would there be any tax implications?

Moving into your family's home could impact your Council Tax. It's good to get advice on this before you move. You can call Age UK's Advice Line on 0800 678 1602 to speak to an adviser, or visit your local Age UK.

What should I do before moving in with family?

Be sure to get independent legal advice and consider having a formal agreement drawn up. It might seem overly formal as they’re family – but it’s better for everyone to be clear about matters from the start because sometimes things don’t work out.

Find out more about finding legal advice