The VA Aid & Attendance benefit is one of the most valuable and most underutilized financial resources available to veterans and their families. It can pay between $1,000 and $2,700 per month toward the cost of senior care — yet the majority of families who qualify never apply, simply because they don’t know it exists.
What Is VA Aid & Attendance?
Aid & Attendance (A&A) is a monthly cash benefit paid directly to qualifying veterans or surviving spouses to help cover the cost of in-home care, assisted living, memory care, or nursing home care. It is paid on top of any other VA pension benefits the veteran may already receive.
Unlike some VA programs, Aid & Attendance does not require a service-connected disability. It is based on need — specifically, the need for assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, eating, or getting around.
Who Qualifies?
To qualify for VA Aid & Attendance, a veteran (or their surviving spouse) generally must meet all of the following:
- Served at least 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during a wartime period
- Was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
- Requires assistance with daily living activities OR is in a care facility
- Meets income and asset limitations set by the VA
Surviving spouses qualify too — even if they never served themselves. If your spouse served and has passed away, you may be eligible for a monthly benefit to help cover your own care costs.
How Much Does It Pay?
Benefit amounts change annually. For 2024, the maximum monthly rates are approximately:
- Veteran with a spouse: ~$2,727/month
- Single veteran: ~$2,300/month
- Surviving spouse: ~$1,478/month
How Do I Apply?
The application process involves gathering military discharge papers (DD-214), medical documentation, and financial records, then submitting VA Form 21-2680. It can take 6–12 months to process, so applying as early as possible is important.
We strongly recommend working with a VA-accredited claims agent or a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) — they can help at no cost and significantly improve your chances of approval.
We accept VA Aid & Attendance benefits at all three of our homes. Call us at 785-494-2600 and we'll help you understand how the benefit applies to your situation.