Quick answer
To apply for Aid and Attendance, a veteran or surviving spouse who gets (or applies for) a VA pension files online or by mail with the needed forms: the pension application (VA Form 21P-527EZ for veterans) if not already receiving a pension, VA Form 21-2680 completed in part by a medical examiner, and VA Form 21-0779 if living in a nursing home. Mail goes to the Pension Intake Center in Janesville, Wisconsin. An accredited Veterans Service Organization can help for free.
Step 1: Check the basics
Aid and Attendance is paid on top of a VA pension. VA says your parent may qualify if they get a VA pension and need another person's help with daily activities like bathing, feeding and dressing, are mostly in bed due to illness, are in a nursing home because of lost mental or physical abilities, or have very limited eyesight. For pension, from December 1, 2025, the net worth limit is $163,699, and VA looks back 3 years at asset transfers. See Aid and Attendance.
Step 2: Gather what you'll need
- Social Security number and VA file number, if any.
- Military history; a copy of discharge papers (DD214) helps.
- Marital history, and dependents' information.
- Household gross monthly income and the value of assets.
- Unreimbursed medical expenses, including care costs.
- Medical information showing the need for help.
Step 3: Fill out the forms
| Form | What it's for |
|---|---|
| VA Form 21P-527EZ | Application for Pension (veterans), if not already receiving pension |
| VA Form 21-2680 | Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance; a medical examiner completes the exam section |
| VA Form 21-0779 | Nursing home information, if your parent is in a nursing home |
Surviving spouses apply through the survivors pension application instead of 21P-527EZ.
Step 4: Consider an intent to file
An intent to file can set an earlier potential start date for benefits if the claim is approved. VA says you don't need one if you apply online with an identity-verified account.
Step 5: Submit
- Online at VA.gov.
- By mail to: Department of Veterans Affairs, Pension Intake Center, PO Box 5365, Janesville, WI 53547-5365.
- In person at a VA regional office.
Step 6: Get free help
Accredited Veterans Service Organization representatives, claims agents and attorneys are listed on VA.gov. VSO help is free. Be cautious about anyone who charges to help you apply.
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Questions families ask
What forms do I need for Aid and Attendance?
Usually VA Form 21-2680, plus the pension application if your parent isn't already receiving pension, and VA Form 21-0779 if in a nursing home.
Where do I mail an Aid and Attendance application?
Department of Veterans Affairs, Pension Intake Center, PO Box 5365, Janesville, WI 53547-5365.
Can a surviving spouse get Aid and Attendance?
Yes, if they get, or qualify for, a VA survivors pension and meet the care need rules.
Who can help me apply for free?
An accredited Veterans Service Organization representative.