Benefits and resources for the people supporting veterans.
This guide is for the people keeping veterans alive. If you are managing a veteran's appointments, medications, crises, and care — this is for you.
Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)
The VA's primary caregiver benefit program. If you qualify, you receive real financial and medical support — not just referrals.
What you get:
- Monthly caregiver stipend (based on veteran's care needs)
- Health insurance through CHAMPVA if not otherwise covered
- Free mental health counseling
- Respite care — temporary relief so you can rest
- Caregiver support coaches assigned to your case
Who qualifies:
- The veteran was discharged from the U.S. military, or has a date of medical discharge — any service era, not just post-9/11
- The veteran has a VA disability rating (individual or combined) of 70% or higher
- The veteran is enrolled in VA healthcare and needs personal care services
⚠️ If you were told years ago that you didn't qualify because the veteran served before 9/11, check again — that restriction no longer applies.
How to apply: Complete VA Form 10-10CG. Both the caregiver and the veteran must sign. Submit online at va.gov/family-member-benefits/comprehensive-assistance-for-family-caregivers or by mail.
💡 The monthly stipend is retroactive to the application date — not the home visit date. Apply as soon as possible, even if you're not sure you qualify. The VA will determine eligibility.
💡 Reassessments are currently suspended VA-wide, but wellness contacts still happen — generally every 120 days, with one occurring in your home each year. If you're a legacy participant or legacy applicant, the transition period for the old program rules has been extended through September 30, 2028.
CHAMPVA Health Coverage
Health coverage for spouses, surviving spouses, and dependent children of veterans who are rated 100% Permanent and Total (P&T).
No monthly premium. Low cost-sharing. Covers most medical services including mental health.
Apply using VA Form 10-10d at va.gov/health-care/family-caregiver-benefits/champva.
Mental Health Support for Caregivers
The VA Caregiver Support Line offers:
- Free peer support groups with other caregivers
- Building Better Caregivers workshops
- Respite care coordination
- Connection to local caregiver support coordinators
VA Caregiver Support Line855-260-3274 · M–F 8am–10pm, Sat 8am–5pm ET
Additional Resources
- Hope for the Warriors — hopeforthewarriors.org — Holistic support for service members, veterans, and caregiving families.
- Elizabeth Dole Foundation — elizabethdolefoundation.org — Advocacy and direct support for military caregivers.
- Give an Hour — giveanhour.org — Free mental health care from volunteer licensed providers.