VA Aid and Attendance
VA Aid and Attendance is a monthly payment added to a VA pension for qualified veterans and survivors who need help with daily activities such as bathing, feeding and dressing, are largely bedbound, live in a nursing home, or have limited eyesight.[1] For December 1, 2025, through November 30, 2026, the maximum annual pension rate for a veteran with no dependents who qualifies for Aid and Attendance is $29,093.[2]
Eligibility
A person may be eligible if they receive a VA pension and meet at least one requirement: they need another person to help with daily activities like bathing, feeding and dressing; they must stay in bed, or spend a large portion of the day in bed, because of illness; they are a patient in a nursing home due to loss of mental or physical abilities related to a disability; or their eyesight is limited as defined by VA.[1] The Housebound allowance is a separate added payment for pension recipients who spend most of their time at home because of a permanent disability; a person cannot receive Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits at the same time.[1]
Maximum annual pension rates (MAPR)
| Veteran’s situation | Basic pension | With Housebound | With Aid and Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|
| No dependents | $17,441 | $21,313 | $29,093 |
| One dependent spouse or child | $22,839 | $26,710 | $34,488 |
Add $2,984 for each additional dependent. Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.[2]
VA pays the difference between a person’s income for VA purposes and the MAPR. Non-reimbursed medical expenses above 5% of the MAPR can reduce countable income, which is why care costs can affect the benefit amount.[2]
Net worth limit and look-back
From December 1, 2025, to November 30, 2026, the net worth limit for Veterans Pension is $163,699. Net worth includes assets and annual income; a primary residence and a car are not counted as assets. VA reviews asset transfers made in the three years before a claim, and transfers for less than fair market value that would have exceeded the limit can trigger a penalty period of up to five years.[2]
How to apply
VA accepts applications online, by mail or in person at a VA regional office. The mail route uses VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance), and a medical examiner must complete the examination section. Nursing home residents also file VA Form 21-0779.[1] VA’s pension pages link to help from accredited representatives.[1]
Frequently asked questions
How much is VA Aid and Attendance in 2026?
For Dec. 1, 2025 to Nov. 30, 2026, the maximum annual pension rate with Aid and Attendance is $29,093 for a veteran with no dependents and $34,488 with one dependent; the actual payment is the MAPR minus countable income.[2]
Can Aid and Attendance pay for assisted living?
Aid and Attendance is a cash payment added to a VA pension for people who need help with daily activities; it is not restricted to a care setting, and unreimbursed care costs can reduce countable income.[1][2]
Can surviving spouses get Aid and Attendance?
Yes. VA describes Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits as available to qualified veterans and survivors.[1]
See also
References
Web pages accessed September 28, 2026 unless noted. See sources and methodology.
- ^ "VA Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound allowance". U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
- ^ "Current pension rates for Veterans (effective December 1, 2025)". U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Rates for Dec. 1, 2025–Nov. 30, 2026.