Family resources
Veterans’ family resources: Aid and Attendance
An official-source starting point for families researching additional pension support.
Understand the benefit being discussed
VA describes Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits as additional monthly payments for qualified veterans and survivors receiving a VA pension. A need for help at home is a reason to investigate the criteria, not proof of entitlement. The two benefits cannot be received at the same time.
Keep the pension question separate from other disability, healthcare or family immigration questions. Similar everyday words can describe different programs. Use the official benefit page to identify the program before asking someone to prepare an application.
Prepare for the official review
The VA page explains the relevant need-for-assistance or housebound criteria and the available application methods. It also identifies examination information that must be completed by a medical examiner. Use the current form and instructions rather than copying an old payment figure or checklist.
As a practical step, organize existing VA correspondence and note the questions you need to ask. Keep medical and financial records private. Let the qualified professional and the official instructions determine what additional evidence is necessary rather than trying to infer eligibility from a family summary.
Find authorized assistance
Use VA’s accredited-representative resources when seeking help with a claim. Verify the individual and clarify the scope and any permitted charges before agreeing to services. A website’s use of military imagery or the phrase “benefits specialist” is not itself an accreditation record.
This publication does not offer VA-accredited representation, assess a medical condition or predict the amount of a payment. The official resources below provide the next step for current criteria, forms and assistance.
Read the official guidance
VA: Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefitsVA: help from accredited representativesSources checked during this release. Review current instructions before making a filing or travel decision.