Quick answer
VA Aid and Attendance is an extra monthly amount added to a VA pension for a veteran or surviving spouse who needs help with daily activities, is bedridden, lives in a nursing home because of a disability, or has severely limited eyesight. For 2026 (rates effective December 1, 2025) the maximum annual pension rate with Aid and Attendance is $29,093 for a veteran with no dependents, $34,488 with one dependent, and $18,697 for a surviving spouse with no dependent child. Free help applying is available from accredited Veterans Service Officers. (800) 614-8388 with care questions.
Who qualifies
Your parent must first qualify for a VA pension (Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension), which has service, income and net worth rules. Then at least one of these must be true:
- They need another person to help with daily activities like bathing, feeding and dressing.
- They have to stay in bed, or spend a large part of the day in bed, because of illness.
- They are a patient in a nursing home because of the loss of mental or physical abilities related to a disability.
- Their eyesight is limited to 5/200 or less in both eyes, even with glasses, or their visual field is 5 degrees or less.
Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits can't be paid at the same time.
2026 maximum annual pension rates
| Situation | Maximum annual pension rate (MAPR) with Aid and Attendance |
|---|---|
| Veteran, no dependents | $29,093 |
| Veteran with one dependent spouse or child | $34,488 |
| Surviving spouse, no dependent child | $18,697 |
The VA pays the difference between the MAPR and your parent's countable income. Unreimbursed medical expenses, which can include the cost of care, may reduce countable income. From December 1, 2025 to November 30, 2026, the net worth limit is $163,699. Source: VA.gov pension rates.
The 3-year look-back
VA reviews assets transferred for less than fair market value in the 3 years before applying. Transfers that would have put your parent over the net worth limit can lead to a penalty period. Talk with an accredited representative before moving any assets.
How to apply
Apply for the pension with Aid and Attendance online at VA.gov, by mail or in person. A medical examiner completes VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance). For a nursing home resident, VA Form 21-0779 is also needed. See how to apply for Aid and Attendance.
Get free help. Accredited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) help with VA claims at no charge. Find one through VA.gov. Be wary of anyone who charges a fee to help you apply.
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Questions families ask
How much does Aid and Attendance pay in 2026?
The maximum annual pension rate with Aid and Attendance is $29,093 for a veteran with no dependents, $34,488 with one dependent, and $18,697 for a surviving spouse with no dependent child. The actual payment depends on countable income.
Can a surviving spouse get Aid and Attendance?
Yes, through the Survivors Pension, if they meet its rules and the care criteria.
Can Aid and Attendance pay for assisted living?
The payment is paid to the veteran or survivor, who can use it toward care, including assisted living. See VA benefits for assisted living.
Do I need to pay someone to apply?
No. Accredited Veterans Service Officers help for free.