Some qualified Veterans and survivors who receive a VA pension may be eligible for additional monthly payments through Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits. Eligibility is individual, rules can change, and the VA—not a home care agency—decides claims.
What Aid and Attendance may add
The VA describes Aid and Attendance as an added amount for qualified Veterans and survivors who receive a VA pension and meet at least one listed condition, such as needing help with daily activities like bathing, feeding, or dressing.
Housebound benefits are a different added allowance for eligible pension recipients who spend most of their time at home because of a permanent disability. The VA states that a person cannot receive Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits at the same time.
Eligibility involves more than care needs
Needing help does not by itself establish eligibility. Pension status, service requirements, income, net worth, medical evidence, and other VA rules may apply. Current pension rates and limits can change, so use VA.gov rather than an old worksheet or marketing brochure.
Prepare before applying
The VA identifies forms and medical examination information used in the application process. Gather current information, follow the instructions for the applicant’s situation, and consider help from a VA-accredited representative if questions arise.
- Review eligibility directly on VA.gov
- Gather pension and service information
- Document the help needed with daily activities
- Ask the medical examiner to complete required sections
- Keep copies of submitted records
- Use only accredited assistance for representation on a claim
How benefits and home care planning connect
A benefit decision and a care assessment answer different questions. The VA determines whether the applicant qualifies for payment. A home care assessment identifies which services, schedule, and credentialed team members fit the person’s current needs.
Do not delay urgent care or safety planning while waiting for a benefits decision. Discuss payment arrangements with the agency and confirm what documentation may be needed.
Veterans care through Private Care Duty, LLC
Private Care Duty, LLC provides individualized care for Veterans across Maryland, including personal care, companion care, medication services, transportation, respite, in-facility care, skilled nursing, and extended coverage when assessed.
The agency does not decide VA eligibility and this article is not financial or legal advice. Contact the VA or a VA-accredited representative for benefit guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers
Does Private Care Duty, LLC approve Aid and Attendance benefits?
No. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs decides eligibility and claims. The agency can discuss care needs and services separately.
Where should I check current benefit amounts?
Use the current pension rate pages on VA.gov because rates and limits may be updated.
Sources and further reading
Authoritative references used to prepare this educational guide:
