Veterans
Understanding VA Aid & Attendance Benefits
Many veterans and their surviving spouses are entitled to financial assistance that can help cover the cost of in-home care — but a large number of eligible families don't know these benefits exist. The VA Aid & Attendance benefit is one of the most valuable and underutilized programs available to veterans.
What is Aid & Attendance?
Aid & Attendance (A&A) is an enhanced pension benefit provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It provides additional monthly payments to veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities — such as bathing, dressing, eating, or getting around — or who are housebound due to a disability.
Additional benefit details
The benefit is paid on top of the basic VA pension and can be used to pay for in-home care, assisted living, or nursing home care.
Who is eligible?
To qualify for Aid & Attendance, a veteran generally must have served at least 90 days of active duty with at least one day during a wartime period, have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, meet income and net worth limits set by the VA, and require assistance with daily living activities or be housebound.
Surviving spouses
Surviving spouses of eligible veterans may also qualify, even if the veteran has passed away.
How much does it pay?
Benefit amounts are updated annually. As of 2026, the maximum monthly Aid & Attendance benefit is approximately $2,300 for a veteran with a dependent spouse, $1,900 for a single veteran, and $1,200 for a surviving spouse. These amounts can significantly offset the cost of in-home care.
How to apply
Applications are submitted to the VA using VA Form 21-2680. The process can take several months, and documentation requirements can be complex. Working with a VA-accredited claims agent or veterans service organization (VSO) can help speed the process.
How Rapha Homecare can help
Rapha Homecare accepts VA benefits and works with veteran families throughout the Sacramento area. Our team can help you understand your options and connect you with resources to navigate the application process.
Contact us to learn more about our Veterans Homecare program.