Veterans and survivors who need assistance performing daily living activities or are housebound may qualify for two benefits offered by the VA: the Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit and the Housebound benefit. Both benefits are paid in addition to a monthly pension, but you cannot receive both at the same time.
Aid & Attendance (A&A)
You qualify for the Aid & Attendance (A&A) if you:
- Need assistance with bathing, toileting, dressing, feeding, dressing, toileting and any other daily living activities
- Have impaired vision
- Are bedridden
- Are mentally or physically incapacitated and live in a nursing home
Housebound
You may qualify for the Housebound benefit if you are confined to your home because of permanent disability. To apply for this and the A&A benefit, contact the VA regional office where you initially claimed pension benefits, or any other VA regional office. You must be able to provide documentation proving your eligibility for the benefits. The VA website has more information on both the A&A and Housebound benefits on their website. A qualified elder law attorney in your area that specializes in Veterans benefits may also provide some information on these benefits.
