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How Much Will the VA Pay My Spouse to Be My Caregiver

Written By
David Bardwell
Published On
September 1, 2025
Many veterans may need extra help at home due to health issues or disabilities. For these veterans, the support of a loved one, especially a spouse, can make a big difference for them. But caring for a veteran can be a full time job, requiring much time and effort. That's why the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has benefits to help spouses who become caregivers.

These benefits can provide financial support, helping to ease the burden on the family. They make it easier for spouses to care for their veteran partners without sacrificing their own well being. Understanding these benefits and how to apply is essential for those considering this option.

This article will explore how much the VA will pay a spouse to be a caregiver. We will cover the types of benefits available, eligibility requirements, and how to apply. This guide aims to help families get the support they need to care for their veterans at home.

Understanding VA Family Caregiver Support Options 

There are a couple of options available for spouses and family members to get compensation while caring for their veteran. 
  1. VA Health Benefits: Veterans with home health care benefits in place can have a spouse or family member provide care through a home care agency contracted with the VA. The process can be straightforward and highly beneficial for both the family caregiver and veteran.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            
  2. The VA offers: the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) to help caregivers of veterans. This program provides financial support, training, and other resources to ensure caregivers can provide the best care possible. For spouses, this means you could receive a stipend while caring for your veteran partner.
The PCAFC is designed for veterans who need personal care services due to injuries or illnesses sustained during active duty. This support covers activities like bathing, dressing, and mobility help, which can be a demanding and time consuming task. The program aims to recognize and ease the burden on family members taking on these responsibilities.

Through the PCAFC, spouses can receive monthly payments to support their caregiving duties. These payments are based on the amount and level of care required by the veteran. The program also offers other benefits such as healthcare coverage, mental health counseling, and respite care for the caregiver, to ensure they remain healthy and supported.

PCAFC Eligibility Requirements for Spouse Caregivers

To qualify for the PCAFC, certain conditions must be met. These requirements ensure that the program assists those who need it most.
  1. Veteran’s Service Dates: The program is available to veterans who served after September 11, 2001, and to veterans who served before May 7, 1975. The veteran must have a serious injury or illness that requires continuous personal care services.
  2. Personal Care Needs: The veteran must need continuous help with daily living activities due to their injury or illness. These activities include bathing, dressing, or mobility aid.
  3. Spouse’s Role and Commitment: The spouse must be willing and able to provide the necessary care. This includes being trained for caregiving tasks and committing to the role as a primary caregiver for their partner.
  4. Initial and Annual Assessments: Both the veteran and the caregiver must undergo initial and yearly assessments by the VA. These assessments determine the level of care needed and ensure the veteran's health and well being are maintained.

Meeting these criteria is needed for eligibility. Understanding these requirements can help families prepare and apply successfully.

How Much the VA Will Pay a Spouse Caregiver

The amount the VA pays to a spouse caregiver varies. It depends on several factors, including the veteran's needs, the level of care required, and where they live.
  1. Stipend Calculation: The VA uses a national average hourly wage for home health aides to calculate the stipend. They will then adjust this rate based on the area's cost of living. This ensures caregivers receive fair compensation regardless of where they live.
  2. Level of Care: There are two levels of payment: Primary Family Caregiver and General Caregiver. The Primary Family Caregiver receives a higher stipend because they provide more intensive care. The amount also depends on how many hours of care the veteran needs each week.
  3. Monthly Payments: For 2025, the basic stipend ranges from a few hundred dollars to over $2,500 per month. This amount helps cover the caregiver's time and effort in providing essential care. The exact figure is determined after an assessment of the veteran's care needs.
Spouses should contact their local VA office to get a precise estimate based on their specific situation. Understanding these factors helps spouses know what financial support they can expect.

Conclusion

Caring for a veteran spouse can be a significant responsibility, and understanding the available VA benefits can lighten the load. With VA Health Benefits or with the PCAFC, spouses can receive financial support, helping them provide the best care possible. Eligibility requirements ensure that these benefits go to families in need, and understanding how much the VA will pay can help in financial planning.

Applying for VA caregiver benefits involves careful documentation and patience, but the support received can make a huge difference in the quality of care and family well being.

BrightStar Care® of Cleveland West is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families with high-quality home care services. If you need assistance or have questions about VA caregiver benefits, contact BrightStar Care® of Cleveland West through our website or call us at (440) 613-1500. We're here to help you navigate your caregiving journey.

BrightStar Care serves Greater Cleveland and surrounding areas (Cuyahoga, Lorain, Medina counties), including the cities of Avon, Avon Lake, Bay Village, Beachwood, Berea, Brecksville, Broadview Heights, Brooklyn, Brookpark, Brunswick, Chagrin Falls, Fairview Park, Independence, Lakewood, Mayfield Heights, Middleburg Heights, North Olmsted, North Royalton, Olmsted Falls, Olmsted Township, Parma, Parma Heights, Rocky River, Seven Hills, Strongsville, Westlake, and Willoughby.