Aid and Attendance Benefit Guide for Veterans
The Aid and Attendance benefit helps veterans pay for care. Learn who qualifies and how to apply.
Aid and Attendance is a valuable but often overlooked benefit that can help pay for senior care.
What Is Aid and Attendance?
A monthly payment added to VA Pension or Compensation for veterans who:
- Need help with daily activities
- Are bedridden
- Are in a nursing home due to mental or physical incapacity
- Have limited eyesight
Who Qualifies
Service Requirements
- 90 days or more of active duty
- At least 1 day during wartime period
- Discharged other than dishonorably
Care Requirements
- Need help with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, eating)
- Require nursing home care
- Limited vision
- Mental incapacity requiring regular supervision
Financial Requirements
- Income limits (after medical expense deductions)
- Asset limits (excluding home and vehicle)
- Look-back period for asset transfers
Benefit Amounts (2024)
- Veterans: Up to $2,295/month
- Married Veterans: Up to $2,727/month
- Surviving Spouses: Up to $1,478/month
What Benefits Can Pay For
- In-home care
- Assisted living costs
- Nursing home care
- Adult day care
- Medical equipment
How to Apply
- Gather DD-214 and medical evidence
- Get physician statement of care needs
- Document income and assets
- File VA Form 21-2680 (plus other forms)
- Consider help from VSO
Tips for Success
- Be thorough documenting care needs
- Include all medical expenses in application
- Be patient—processing takes months
- Appeal if denied