Caregiver Benefits versus Aid and Attendance: Explaining the differences for veterans

Comparing caregiver benefits versus aid and attendance can be a bit confusing for veterans. They're similar, but definitely not the same. It's important to understand the difference so you know exactly what you qualify for and can make the most of available resources.

Beyond the standard service-connection that gets veterans their VA disability benefits, supporting services such as caregiver benefits and aid and attendance are available to help veterans, their families, and their caregivers.

Keep reading as we break down similarities and differences between these two types of support available to veterans and their loved ones:

What are caregiver benefits?

Caregiver benefits are available to caregivers of veterans, and they cover several different areas of support. According to the VA's webpage on caregiver benefits (officially called the Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers - PCAFC), caregivers may be eligible to receive benefits such as:

• Monthly financial stipends

• Access to healthcare benefits

• Legal and financial advice

• Access to military commissaries 

• Caregiver education and training

• Travel benefits / reimbursements

• Mental health counseling

To apply for the VA's Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, you can fill out and submit the online application here (but you should read the rest of this blog first!).

What is aid and attendance?

Unlike caregiver benefits, VA aid and attendance is a type of special monthly compensation – a higher rate of compensation paid to veterans (as well as their spouses, surviving spouses, and parents if they have certain needs or disabilities). This includes a monthly payment that is added to the amount of a monthly VA pension for qualified veterans and survivors.

Veterans who qualify for aid and attendance are either housebound or need help with their daily activities. If you're a veteran who meets at least one of these criteria below, you may be eligible:

• A need for help with performing daily activities (bathing, feeding, dressing, etc)

• A necessity to stay in bed or spend a large portion of the day in bed due to illness

• The veteran is a patient in a nursing home due to loss of mental or physical abilities

• The veteran's eyesight is greatly limited, even with glasses or contact lenses 

Learn more about the process of applying for aid and attendance benefits here. 

How are caregiver benefits different from aid and attendance?

Here's a simple breakdown of the similarities and differences between caregiver benefits and aid and attendance:

	Caregiver benefits	Aid and attendance
Requirement for service-connected condition	Not required	Required
Provides insurance	Yes	No
Provides financial support	Yes	Yes
Falls under special monthly compensation	No	Yes

At MRPY, we're veterans who help other veterans

Ready to file a strong, well-prepared claim that will make a difference? The strongest VA disability benefits claims begin with thorough documentation. With the ability to craft expert-level Nexus Letters, DBQs, and more – we can help you get what you need before you submit your evidence to the VA.

Get started by signing up for a Medical Evidence Assessment (every veteran starts here).

You can also view other services here. Rather than struggling alone, work with one of our professional medical experts to get exactly what you need without all of the confusion.