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Caregiver Program Explainers
Everything you need to know about VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.
In This Guide:
What is PCAFC?
Eligibility Requirements
Caregiver Stipend Levels
Application Process
Assessment & Approval
Maintaining Benefits
- Downloads
PCAFC Application Checklist
PDF – 2 pages
Stipend Rate Calculator
Excel
Home Assessment Prep
PDF – 3 pages
What is PCAFC?
The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) provides support to family members and close friends who serve as caregivers for eligible veterans. This includes a monthly stipend, health insurance, mental health services, and respite care.
- Key Benefits
- Monthly caregiver stipend
- CHAMPVA health insurance
- Mental health counseling
- Caregiver training
- Respite care (up to 30 days/year)
- Travel expenses for VA care
- Access to VA facilities
- Financial planning
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for VA disability compensation, you must meet the following criteria:
- Veteran Requirements
- Have a service-connected disability rating of 70% or higher
- Require in-person personal care services for a minimum of 6 months
- Unable to self-care OR require supervision/protection due to symptoms
- Caregiver Requirements
- At least 18 years old
- Family member, close friend, or neighbor of the veteran
- Able to be present with the veteran to provide care
- No felony conviction in the last 7 years
Caregiver Stipend Levels
The monthly stipend is based on the veteran’s care needs and is calculated as a percentage of the Bureau of Labor Statistics hourly wage for home health aides in your area.
- Level 1 (Lowest)
Veteran needs assistance with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL) or supervision due to neurological or mental health impairment.
~62.5% of applicable hourly rate × 20.25 hrs/week
- Level 2 (Moderate)
Veteran needs assistance with at least one ADL AND supervision, protection, or instruction due to neurological impairment or injury.
~62.5% of applicable hourly rate × 30 hrs/week
- Level 3 (Highest)
Veteran needs assistance with three or more ADLs AND supervision, protection, or instruction due to neurological impairment.
~62.5% of applicable hourly rate × 40 hrs/week
Note: Stipends vary by location. A Level 3 caregiver in a high-cost area could receive $3,000+ per month.
Application Process
- Submit VA Form 10-10CG – Both the veteran and caregiver must sign. Apply online, by mail, or in person.
- Gather Supporting Documents – Include medical evidence showing the veteran’s care needs.
- Schedule Home Visit – A VA clinical team will conduct an in-home assessment.
- Complete Caregiver Training – Both core and specialized training may be required.
- Await Decision – You’ll receive a written decision within 90 days of complete application.
Assessment & Approval
The home assessment is critical to your approval and stipend level. Here’s what to expect:
- During the Home Visit
- Clinical team evaluates the veteran’s functional limitations
- Assessment of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) needs
- Review of neurological or mental health symptoms
- Discussion of current care being provided
- Safety assessment of the home environment
- Pro Tip:
Document the veteran’s worst days before the assessment. The evaluator needs to understand the full scope of care required, not just how things look on a good day.
Assessment & Approval
Once approved, you must maintain certain requirements to continue receiving benefits:
Annual Wellness Contacts
Participate in regular check-ins with the Caregiver Support Program.
Reassessments
Home reassessments occur periodically or if circumstances change.
Report Changes
Notify VA of changes in living situation, care needs, or caregiver status.
- Revocation Risks
Benefits can be revoked for failure to complete training, felony conviction, abuse or neglect, or if the veteran no longer needs caregiver support.
- Connect with Other Caregivers
Join our community of veteran caregivers for support, resources, and shared experiences.
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