The Aged Care Assessment Explained (2026)
The aged care assessment explained: what it covers, who does it, how to prepare, and how the outcome unlocks your funded care in 2026.
Why the assessment matters
One system, one story
How to get one started
What happens during the assessment
Preparing well
Your outcome letter
If you disagree with the outcome
Frequently asked questions
Is the aged care assessment free?
Yes. Both registering with My Aged Care and the assessment itself are free, with no obligation to take up services. You only contribute towards services once they begin, and the amount depends on the service type and your income and assets.
Who carries out the assessment?
A trained assessor arranged through My Aged Care under the Single Assessment System, which replaced the older ACAT and RAS split. They usually visit you at home, talk through how you manage day to day, and recommend what you are eligible for.
How should I prepare?
Write down the tasks you find hard and how often, list your health conditions, recent falls and hospital stays, and have medications and Medicare details ready. Have someone you trust present, and describe your worst days honestly, not just the good ones.
What if I disagree with the result?
You can ask for a review if the outcome does not reflect your needs, supported by new information such as a GP report. You can also request a reassessment later if your situation changes. The first outcome is not final.