A Guide to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Caregiver Stipend Program

If you’re caring for a loved one who served in the U.S. military, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may be able to pay you for your time and support. This guide explains how to qualify, what programs exist, and how to apply — with checklists and links to the forms you’ll need.

🪖 1. Understanding VA Caregiver Programs

There are two main programs to know about:

a) Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

This program provides monthly payments, health insurance (for eligible caregivers), respite care, and training. Learn more: VA PCAFC Overview

b) Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS)

This program offers training, coaching, and support, but does not provide monthly payments. Learn more: VA Caregiver Support Program

✅ 2. Check if You’re Eligible

Use these quick checklists to determine eligibility.

For the Veteran

• Enrolled in VA health care

• Has a service-connected disability rating (usually 70% or higher for PCAFC)

• Needs help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, mobility, or safety supervision

• Disability or illness lasted (or will last) at least 6 months

• Injury or illness occurred in the line of duty

➡️ Check eligibility details: VA Family Caregiver Benefits Eligibility

For the Caregiver

• Age 18 or older

• Spouse, child, parent, stepfamily, extended family member, or lives with the Veteran full-time

• Willing and able to provide daily personal care

• Complete required caregiver training (after application)

📝 3. Apply for the Caregiver Program

To apply for PCAFC (the payment program), follow these steps.

Caregiver Application Checklist

1. Gather information for both you and the Veteran

2. Complete VA Form 10-10CG – Application for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers

   • Download: VA Form 10-10CG (PDF)

   • Form instructions: VA Form 10-10CG Information Page

3. Submit your application in one of these ways:

   • Online: Submit at VA.gov

   • By Mail: Department of Veterans Affairs Health Eligibility Center 2957 Clairmont Road, Suite 200 Atlanta, GA 30329-1647

   • In Person: Drop off at your local VA Medical Center (ask for the Caregiver Support Coordinator)

4. Complete required caregiver training

5. Participate in the VA’s home visit and assessment

6. Wait for approval and payment setup

💵 4. How Payment Works

Once approved, you’ll be enrolled as the Veteran’s Primary Family Caregiver (and possibly a secondary backup).

Payment Details

• Monthly stipend based on the Veteran’s care level:

  • Level 1 (Tier 1) – Moderate daily care needs

  • Level 2 (Tier 2) – High or continuous daily care needs

• Stipend is tied to local GS-4, Step 1 pay rates for your area (varies by location)

• Payments are sent via direct deposit

Set up direct deposit here: 👉 VA Caregiver Direct Deposit Enrollment

Learn about stipend rates and payment schedule: 👉 VA Caregiver Stipend Information

🧾 5. Keep Your Benefits Active

Once approved, the VA will periodically check in to confirm your ongoing eligibility.

Ongoing Caregiver Checklist

• Maintain accurate records of your caregiving activities

• Notify the VA of any changes (move, hospitalization, changes in care level)

• Continue communication with your Caregiver Support Coordinator

• Complete any refresher training if requested

• Keep the Veteran enrolled in VA health care

Find your local Caregiver Support Coordinator: 👉 Search VA Caregiver Support Coordinators

☎️ 6. Where to Get Help

If you have questions or need help applying:

• Call the VA Caregiver Support Line: 1-855-260-3274 Hours: Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–10 p.m. ET and Sat, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET https://www.caregiver.va.gov/support/support_line.asp

• Find your nearest VA Caregiver Support Program office: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/support/New_CSC_Page.asp

• Read the VA Caregiver Welcome Kit: https://www.va.gov/files/2025-06/vawelcomekit-qsg-caregiver-support-program.pdf

❤️ 7. Final Tips

• Keep a care log of the daily tasks you perform — this can strengthen your case.

• Even if your loved one doesn’t qualify for the stipend (PCAFC), apply for the PGCSS for access to free training, respite care, and support.

• If your Veteran’s condition changes, you can reapply or request a reassessment at any time.

Learn more about both programs here: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/