Direct payments for adult social care

A direct payment is when we pay your personal budget to you—if you're eligible and willing—so you can arrange your own care and support, giving you more choice and control over how it's delivered.

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How the money works

Most people receive their direct payment on a prepaid card managed by allpay.

  • We load your eligible amount every two weeks in arrears.
  • If you have an assessed contribution, you must pay it onto the card (for example by standing order) so there’s enough to pay your care.
  • If your plan includes it, we add a 4‑week contingency for emergencies. You need written approval to use it, and it must be returned if your direct payment ends.
  • You can pay by card, bank transfer/Faster Payments, or Direct Debit (where enabled). Cheques aren’t supported.
  • In some cases we may authorise a separate direct‑payment bank account instead. Your practitioner will advise.

Need help with activating the card, setting up payees/Direct Debits, loading your contribution or downloading statements? Contact Staffordshire Cares on 0300 111 8010 or staffordshirecares@staffordshire.gov.uk.