VA Aid & Attendance Explained: How Veterans Can Use This Benefit for Home Care

Caring for a veteran at home can be rewarding, but it can also be costly. Many families aren’t aware that the VA Aid & Attendance (A&A) benefit can help cover the cost of home care services, allowing veterans to remain safe and independent in their own homes. Here’s what you need to know about this important program.

What Is Aid & Attendance?

Aid & Attendance is an additional monthly benefit added to a VA pension. It is designed for veterans or surviving spouses who require help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as:

• Bathing

• Dressing

• Feeding

• Mobility and transferring

• Protecting themselves from hazards

The benefit can also apply if the veteran is housebound, bedridden, or requires a nursing facility for long-term care.

Who Qualifies?

A veteran may qualify if they:

• Served at least 90 days of active duty, with one day during a wartime period

• Need help with daily activities due to illness, disability, or age

• Meet certain income and net worth limits set by the VA

• Have a medical form completed by a physician (VA Form 21-2680) documenting the need for care

Surviving spouses of eligible veterans may also qualify.

How Much Does Aid & Attendance Provide?

The benefit amount varies by marital status, dependents, and survivor eligibility. In many cases, it can add hundreds to over $1,700 per month to help offset care costs. Importantly, this money can go toward home care services—not just facility care.

How Veterans Can Use A&A for Home Care

Aid & Attendance benefits can pay for:

• Non-medical home care assistance with ADLs

• Homemaker services like meal preparation and light housekeeping

• Supervision for safety

• Professional home care agencies like Visiting Nurse PHC

This allows veterans to remain in familiar surroundings, rather than moving to assisted living or nursing homes.

The Application Process

Applying for A&A can feel overwhelming, but it’s worth it. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

1. Gather military service records (DD-214 or equivalent).

2. Collect medical documentation showing the need for assistance.

3. Complete VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance).

4. Submit through the VA (online, by mail, or in person).

5. Be patient—processing times can range from a few months to a year.

How Visiting Nurse Helps

We understand that families often feel overwhelmed by both caregiving and paperwork. Our team can guide you in:

• Identifying if you may qualify

• Connecting you with resources to assist with applications

• Creating a care plan that aligns with VA benefit guidelines

Final Thoughts

Aid & Attendance is one of the most underutilized VA benefits—yet it can make all the difference for veterans who want to age at home with dignity. If you or your loved one may qualify, don’t leave this benefit on the table.

Contact Visiting Nurse PHC today to learn more about home care for veterans and how to navigate the Aid & Attendance benefit.