VA Aid and Attendance Benefit Guide

Aid and Attendance (A&A) is an enhanced VA pension for veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, eating, or who live in a nursing home or assisted living facility. It can pay over $2,700/month tax-free.

Eligibility Checker

Veteran served at least 90 days active duty, with 1 wartime day?

YesNo

Requires help with daily living activities (ADLs) OR is housebound or in care facility?

YesNo

Benefit recipient status

Veteran Married (with spouse) Surviving Spouse

Annual Income ($)

Net Worth ($, excl. primary home)

2024 A&A Maximum Annual Rates

$2,727

Veteran Alone

$3,224

Veteran + Spouse

$1,750

Surviving Spouse

Monthly rates shown. Annual amounts: Veteran $32,729 · Vet+Spouse $38,693 · Surviving spouse $21,001. Rates increase annually with COLA.

A&A is a needs-based benefit — your income and unreimbursed medical expenses determine your payment amount. Care costs (nursing home, in-home aide, assisted living) reduce your "countable income," which can significantly increase your A&A benefit. Apply with VA Form 21-2680. Processing takes 3–6 months; consider filing immediately.