Veterans and the family members who care for them may need support with healthcare, daily activities, transportation, housing, finances, respite care, and other needs.
The Department of Veterans Affairs offers several programs for eligible Veterans and their caregivers. Depending on the Veteran's circumstances and VA eligibility, support can include caregiver education, coaching, peer support, respite care, mental health services, healthcare benefits, and, for certain eligible family caregivers, a monthly financial stipend. Other government programs, nonprofit organizations, and community resources may also provide assistance.
Who May Qualify
A Veteran or caregiver may qualify based on factors such as:
- Veteran status and military service
- VA healthcare enrollment
- Service-connected disability
- The Veteran's need for personal care
- Household or financial circumstances
- The caregiver's relationship to the Veteran
- Whether the caregiver lives with or provides regular care to the Veteran
Different VA programs have different eligibility requirements, so not every caregiver will qualify for every benefit.
Check What You May Qualify For
Are you a Veteran or caregiver looking for support? OpenGrants Network helps you discover legitimate assistance programs that may match your situation.
- ✓ Free eligibility check
- ✓ Free guidance if needed
Programs vary based on eligibility, location, household circumstances, and the type of support needed.
Types of Support for Veterans and Caregivers
Depending on eligibility, Veterans and caregivers may find help through:
- The Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS), including peer support, training, and coaching
- The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) for qualifying Veterans with a 70%+ disability rating
- Respite care to give caregivers a short-term break
- Healthcare and mental health support for Veterans and caregivers
- Financial support through PCAFC for eligible caregivers who meet requirements
- Support for homeless or at-risk Veterans through the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans
How Caregiver Support Typically Works
- Determine the Veteran's VA healthcare status, since many caregiver programs require enrollment.
- Identify the type of care being provided, including daily personal care, supervision, or safety assistance.
- Contact the VA Caregiver Support Program, since a local caregiver support team can explain available programs.
- Check eligibility for PGCSS or PCAFC, as these programs have different requirements.
- Complete the appropriate process and explore additional VA and community resources beyond caregiver-specific programs.
The VA Caregiver Support Line can connect caregivers with support and local resources at 1-855-260-3274, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.