VA Aid & Attendance Benefits
A comprehensive guide to understanding and applying for the VA's Aid & Attendance pension benefit—helping veterans and surviving spouses pay for care.
What is Aid & Attendance?
Aid & Attendance (A&A) is an enhanced pension benefit paid to wartime veterans and their surviving spouses who require the regular aid of another person to perform everyday activities.
This tax-free benefit can provide up to $2,300+ per month to help pay for home care, assisted living, memory care, or other qualified care services.
Did You Know?
The VA estimates that only about 1/3 of eligible veterans and spouses are receiving Aid & Attendance benefits. Many families don't know this benefit exists.
$2,431
Max Monthly Benefit
2024 Maximum Annual Rates
| Recipient | Basic | A&A |
|---|---|---|
| Single Veteran | $16,550 | $27,610 |
| Married Veteran | $21,678 | $32,738 |
| Surviving Spouse | $11,103 | $17,764 |
* Rates effective December 2023. Monthly benefit = annual rate ÷ 12.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for Aid & Attendance, you must meet military service, medical, and financial requirements.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Veteran served at least 90 days of active duty (at least one day during wartime)
- Discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
- Be at least 65 years old OR permanently disabled
- Need assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Wartime Service Periods
- World War II: December 7, 1941 – December 31, 1946
- Korean War: June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955
- Vietnam War: February 28, 1961 – May 7, 1975
- Gulf War: August 2, 1990 – Present
Financial Requirements
- Net worth limits apply (currently around $150,538 for 2024)
- Countable income must be below annual pension limit
- Medical expenses can reduce countable income
- Primary residence typically excluded from net worth calculation
Medical Need Requirements
- Require regular aid of another person for daily activities
- Bedridden or blind (legally or nearly)
- Residing in a nursing home due to mental or physical incapacity
- Unable to dress, bathe, eat, or attend to hygiene without assistance
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for Aid & Attendance benefits
Gather Required Documents
Collect essential paperwork including DD214, medical records, and financial documents.
- DD214 or other discharge papers
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Death certificate (for surviving spouse)
- Medical evidence of care needs
- Financial statements
Complete VA Form 21-2680
This form documents the veteran's need for Aid and Attendance.
- VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status)
- Must be completed by a physician
- Details ADL limitations
- Establishes medical necessity
Submit Application
File your claim with the VA through one of several methods.
- VA Form 21-527EZ (Veterans) or 21-534EZ (Survivors)
- Submit online via VA.gov
- Mail to VA Pension Management Center
- Work with accredited VSO
Wait for Decision
The VA reviews your application and makes a determination.
- Average processing time: 3-6 months
- May request additional information
- Decision letter sent by mail
- Appeals process available if denied
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Help with Your Application?
Our Veteran-Certified Advisors provide free guidance throughout the entire process.