VA Benefits for Senior Living
The VA's Aid & Attendance benefit can provide up to $2,431 per month to help veterans and surviving spouses pay for senior living care. Here is everything you need to know.
What is Aid & Attendance?
Aid & Attendance (A&A) is an enhanced pension benefit paid to eligible wartime veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities or are housebound. It is paid in addition to the basic VA pension.
This benefit can be used to pay for assisted living, memory care, home care, or nursing home costs. There are no restrictions on how the money is spent â it goes directly to the veteran or surviving spouse.
Monthly Benefit Amounts (2026)
Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR) including Aid & Attendance
Single Veteran
$2,431/mo
$29,175/year
Veteran with Spouse
$2,881/mo
$34,573/year
Surviving Spouse
$1,562/mo
$18,744/year
Two Veterans Married to Each Other
$3,234/mo
$38,813/year
These amounts represent the maximum benefit. Your actual benefit depends on your income and unreimbursed medical expenses. Higher medical expenses (like assisted living costs) can actually increase your eligibility amount.
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet all four criteria to qualify for Aid & Attendance.
Veteran or Surviving Spouse
You must be a veteran who was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, or the surviving spouse of such a veteran.
Wartime Service
You must have served at least 90 days of active duty with at least 1 day during a wartime period (WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War, etc.).
Need for Aid & Attendance
You must need help with daily activities (bathing, dressing, eating), be bedridden, be a patient in a nursing home, or have limited eyesight.
Financial Eligibility
Your countable income (minus unreimbursed medical expenses) must fall below the Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR) for your category.
Important Note on Assets
The VA imposes a 3-year look-back period on asset transfers. If you gifted or transferred assets below fair market value in the 3 years before applying, it may affect your eligibility. The net worth limit is approximately $155,356 (adjusted annually for inflation), which includes all assets except your primary residence and personal property.
How to Apply
The application process typically takes 3-6 months for a decision.
Gather Your Documents
You will need your DD-214 (discharge papers), medical records documenting your need for aid, income and asset statements, and marriage/death certificates if applicable.
Complete VA Form 21-2680
Have your physician complete VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance). This documents your need for assistance with daily activities.
Submit Your Application
Apply online at VA.gov, by mail to your regional VA office, or in person at a VA regional office. You can also work with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) for free help with your application.
Free Help Available
Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) like the American Legion, VFW, and DAV provide free assistance with VA claims. They can help you gather documents, complete forms, and submit your application at no cost.
Calculate Your Senior Living Costs
Use our free cost calculator to see how much senior living costs in your area and how VA benefits can help offset expenses.