Independent Living Independent Living Fees: Avoid Surprises 6/17/2024 | By Terri L. Jones Are you searching for a new independent living community for you or a loved one? Know about a community’s independent living fees before deciding on a new home. Don’t let added charges catch you by surprise! Elaine chose the independent living community where she’s lived for almost six months now because of the variety of amenities included in her monthly fee – from cable, housekeeping and meals to fitness classes, on-site entertainment, and transportation. Many independent living communities operate under this all-inclusive model; however, not all of them do. Most communities do not offer pricing details on their website or over even the phone. While Elaine hasn’t been surprised by any additional charges at the end of the month (except for a small fee to deliver several large packages to her door, which she was happy to pay), other residents may be caught unawares. That’s why it’s so important to ask exactly what’s included – and what’s not – before signing on the dotted line of a new independent living community. Some independent living fees you could incur and should ask about upfront Community fee Before you move in, you may be charged a one-time, non-refundable fee, called either a community, admission, or facilities fee, to prepare your apartment for you. Different from an entrance fee, which is much higher and potentially refundable, this fee may cover costs such as replacing the carpet and painting the walls or even renovations if the unit has had a long-term resident before you. Association fee On top of the one-time admission fee above, your new independent living community may also charge you an association fee on an annual, monthly, or quarterly basis to cover the costs of ongoing maintenance, services, or special activities. Meals The monthly rent for independent living communities may include a meal plan, covering some or all of your meals. Because independent living units have kitchens, communities expect that residents will prepare some of their own meals. They also anticipate that people living there will go out to lunch or dinner with friends now and then. Elaine, for example, gets a lump sum each month to spend on meals, wine at happy hour, snacks, etc., but this stipend doesn’t cover three meals a day. In some cases, meals are not included in the fee at all and charged a la carte. Just because your new community has many dining options, don’t assume your meals are included. Transportation Most independent living communities provide free shuttle services to the grocery store, pharmacies, doctors’ appointments, events, etc., but this transportation is at specific times and not on demand. In other words, you can’t typically request a shuttle, like you would a taxi, to take you somewhere whenever you need. If you have a car, some communities may charge for a parking spot or carport if available. Personal services At your independent living community, you could incur an extra charge for laundry, dry cleaning, and salon services. Elaine has a stackable washer and dryer in her unit for her laundry, but she pays extra for a haircut or perm when a hairdresser comes on-campus. Roommates or pets If you have a partner or friend living with you, some communities will charge an additional fee for that second person. Same goes for a pet. After you ensure your new community allows pets, find out about pet deposits and monthly fees (as well as weight restrictions and other fine print). Other additional costs You may also pay extra for a landline or cable TV (Elaine’s community covers basic cable in her monthly rent with upgraded service charged extra), making copies and sending faxes on the community’s machines, and sometimes even certain activities. When comparing prices for independent living communities, be sure to ask about additional costs. Some surprises aren’t welcome! Learn more about independent living communities, from Seniors Guide Read More Terri L. Jones Terri L. Jones has been writing educational and informative topics for the senior industry for over 10 years, and is a frequent and longtime contributor to Seniors Guide.