Paying for care2 min read
Veterans Aid and Attendance: the benefit most families never hear about
A monthly amount added to a VA pension for veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily life. Who may qualify, in general terms, and how to apply without paying anyone.
Written and reviewed by Cardinal Care Advisors, Buffalo, New York. Published September 26, 2026.
Paying for careChoosing senior livingAt home
What it is
Aid and Attendance is a monthly payment the VA adds to a VA pension. It can go toward help at home, assisted living, or a nursing home. It is for veterans and for surviving spouses.
Who may qualify, in general
The person must be eligible for a VA pension, which has rules about wartime service and income and net worth. On top of that, the VA lists needs such as:
- Needing help from another person with daily activities like bathing, feeding, or dressing.
- Having to stay in bed because of illness for much of the day.
- Living in a nursing home because of lost abilities from a disability.
- Severely limited eyesight, as the VA defines it.
Veterans service officers and VA-accredited representatives help with claims at no charge.
How to apply
Online on VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. The application includes a form a doctor fills out about the person's needs (VA Form 21-2680), and a nursing home resident also sends VA Form 21-0779. Check VA.gov for the current forms before you start.
Get free help
Veterans service officers and VA-accredited representatives help with claims at no charge. New York State's Department of Veterans' Services, 1-888-838-7697, can set up an appointment. Be careful with anyone who charges to file, or who suggests moving money around to qualify; ask the VA or a VA-accredited representative first. Cardinal does not file VA claims.
Official sources
These open another website. We link only to government agencies and established nonprofits.
- VA Aid and Attendance and Housebound (opens another site) · Eligibility and how to apply, from the VA.
- VA geriatrics and extended care (opens another site) · VA programs for help at home and long-term care.
- New York State Department of Veterans' Services (opens another site) · Free help with VA benefits.
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General information for families in Western New York, written by Cardinal Care Advisors. Not medical or legal advice; a physician, an elder law attorney, or a licensed assessor decides the things that need deciding. Tell us if something here is wrong or out of date: hello@thecardinalgroup.org.