How much can an assisted living home ask for a down payment?

Question

We live in Mississippi and my mom would like to move into an assisted living home . She will not be able to move for 2 months and they are asking for $2900.00 for a down payment - that is 2 months rent for a semi private room. This seems extreme to me. Has anyone here had this experience and is it a normal practice? I would appreciate any input.

Thanks,

Tricia

Answer 1

I'm afraid that that is probably the usual in Mississippi, and you are lucky compared to what it would be in California, where I live.  $2900 would not even pay for one month here.  I am trying right now to keep my 83-year-old mom in the home where she has lived for 35 years, but the assisted living alternative is something I am looking into.  I know that the cost of living in the San Francisco area is ridiculously high, so I would suggest that you check local Seniors Services to see what the reasonable and expected rate would be in your area.  Unfortunately it is quite high everywhere..... good luck.