Money, taxes, and legal
How to get extra pension money for care at home (Aid and Attendance)
If you get VA pension and need help with daily tasks, or are mostly stuck at home, you may get extra money each month. Surviving spouses may qualify too.
What you may need
- A doctor’s report about your daily care needs
- Your pension letter, or proof you are applying
- Your care costs
Steps
Step 1: Check if you may qualify for Aid and Attendance
You may qualify if you need help bathing, dressing, or eating, if you are in bed most of the day, if you live in a nursing home, or if you have very poor eyesight.
Step 2: Or check Housebound benefits
Housebound is a smaller extra payment for people mostly stuck at home due to a permanent disability.
Step 3: Have your doctor fill out a form
Ask your doctor to fill out VA Form 21-2680. If you live in a nursing home, the home fills out VA Form 21-0779.
Step 4: Send it to your pension office
Mail the forms to the Pension Management Center for your state, or get help from a free VSO.
Questions? Call the official line
VA pension help line: 877-294-6380Official sources
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