Do I qualify for VA Aid & Attendance?
Aid & Attendance is an increased monthly pension amount added on top of the VA's basic pension, for veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, or managing medication — or who are housebound. It's one of the most underused VA benefits, largely because it's not automatic and most veterans don't know it exists.
Who qualifies
Wartime service requirement
At least 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during a VA-recognized wartime period (WWII, Korea, Vietnam, or the Gulf War era forward), and a discharge other than dishonorable. Combat exposure is not required.
Medical need
Needing help with at least one activity of daily living, being bedridden, being a nursing home resident due to physical or mental incapacity, or having severely limited eyesight all qualify.
Income and net worth limits
Unlike Social Security, medical expenses (including assisted living and in-home care costs) can be deducted from countable income — which is why many families who assume they earn "too much" actually qualify once care costs are factored in.
Surviving spouses qualify too. If your spouse was a wartime veteran and has passed away, you may be eligible for a survivor's version of this benefit even if you never served yourself.
How much it pays (2026 maximum monthly rates)
| Category | Approx. Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| Veteran with no dependents | ~$2,300 |
| Veteran with one dependent | ~$2,730 |
| Two veterans married to each other, both qualifying | ~$3,650 |
| Surviving spouse | ~$1,490 |
Rates adjust annually and vary by exact circumstances — the VA's published pension rate tables have the precise current figures for your situation.
This benefit is tax-free and does not count as income against Medicaid eligibility calculations in most states — it can be layered on top of other benefits, not instead of them.
How to apply
Apply through VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Aid and Attendance), typically submitted alongside VA Form 21P-527EZ for veterans or 21P-534EZ for surviving spouses. A physician needs to complete part of the medical portion. Many veterans work with an accredited VA claims agent or Veterans Service Officer (free through most veterans' organizations) to avoid common paperwork mistakes that cause delays.
Considering assisted living or in-home care?
A Place for Mom's free advisors can help you find and compare senior care options in your area — and Aid & Attendance can help cover the cost.
Common questions
Does Aid & Attendance affect my regular VA pension?
No — it's an increase added on top of the basic VA pension amount you may already qualify for, not a separate program that replaces it.
Can I get this if I'm in assisted living, not a nursing home?
Yes. Assisted living, in-home care, and independent living with paid caregiving support can all qualify, and their costs count as deductible medical expenses against the income limit.
How long does approval take?
Timelines vary widely, often several months to over a year. Getting the medical examination form and all supporting documents complete on first submission meaningfully speeds up the process.