For many families in Springfield and Bloomington, the moment a parent or spouse begins needing help with bathing, dressing, meals, or moving safely around the house is overwhelming. VA Aid and Attendance can ease that burden by adding a monthly payment to an eligible veteran’s or surviving spouse’s VA pension, money that can help pay for in-home care.

This guide explains what Aid and Attendance is, who may qualify, how to apply, and how
BrightStar Care of Springfield/Bloomington can support your family while the claim is being processed.

What is the VA Aid and Attendance Program?

Aid and Attendance (often called “A&A”) is an increased monthly payment added to VA Pension or Survivors Pension for qualified veterans and surviving spouses who need regular help from another person because of illness or disability.

The benefit recognizes that daily life can become unsafe or impossible without assistance. A person may qualify if they need help with activities such as bathing, feeding, dressing, toileting, adjusting prosthetic devices, or protecting themselves from everyday hazards.

What Aid and Attendance Can Pay For

Aid and Attendance is paid directly to the eligible veteran or surviving spouse; the VA does not pay a home care agency directly. Once approved, the family can use the additional monthly income to help cover care-related costs, including non-reimbursed medical expenses and in-home care services.

For Springfield and Bloomington families, that flexibility matters. It can help fund assistance with personal care, companionship, transportation to medical appointments, meal preparation, medication reminders, safety supervision, and respite for family caregivers.

Who Qualifies for Aid and Attendance?

To receive Aid and Attendance, a veteran or surviving spouse generally must first qualify for the underlying VA Pension or Survivors Pension, then meet the medical need for aid and attendance.

Veterans

A veteran may be eligible for VA Pension if they meet VA’s service, age or disability, income, and net worth requirements. 

Aid and Attendance is then added if the veteran needs another person’s help with daily activities, is bedridden, lives in a nursing home because of a disability, or has very limited eyesight.

Surviving Spouses

A surviving spouse may qualify for Survivors Pension and request the Aid and Attendance add-on if they meet the VA’s eligibility rules and need help with daily activities. 

The application is different from a veteran’s application, but the medical documentation requirement is similar.

How to Apply for the Aid and Attendance Program: A Step-by-Step Approach

The application process can feel intimidating, but it becomes manageable when broken into clear steps.

Step 1: Gather Service and Financial Records

Collect the veteran’s discharge papers, typically the DD214, along with marriage and dependent information, income records, bank statements, and documentation of recurring medical expenses. VA reviews both income and assets, and unreimbursed medical expenses may be deductible.

Step 2: Complete the Pension Application

Veterans generally apply for VA Pension using VA Form 21P-527EZ, Application for Veterans Pension. 

Surviving spouses generally use VA Form 21P-534EZ, Application for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits.

If the veteran or survivor already receives VA Pension, they may instead request the Aid and Attendance add-on rather than filing an entirely new pension application.

Step 3: Obtain Medical Documentation

The central medical form is VA Form 21-2680, Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance. A medical examiner (an MD, DO, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse) must complete the examination section.

The provider should describe specific limitations, not simply list diagnoses. 

For example, “requires assistance bathing and dressing due to weakness and fall risk” is more useful than “mobility issues.” If the applicant lives in a nursing home, VA Form 21-0779 may also be required.

Step 4: Submit the Claim

Families can apply online through VA.gov, by mail, or in person. VA lists its Pension Intake Center mailing address as Department of Veterans Affairs, Pension Intake Center, PO Box 5365, Janesville, WI 53547-5365.

Keep copies of everything submitted, including the completed VA Form 21-2680, financial documents, and any letters from providers. Clear, organized documentation can reduce delays and follow-up requests.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Aid and Attendance Program

Does the VA pay for home care directly?

No. Aid and Attendance increases the monthly pension payment for an eligible veteran or surviving spouse. The family can then use those funds to help pay for in-home care and other care-related expenses.

Can a surviving spouse receive Aid and Attendance?

Yes. An eligible surviving spouse may receive the Aid and Attendance add-on to Survivors Pension if they meet VA’s medical and financial requirements.

How long does the process take?

Timelines vary based on the completeness of the application, medical evidence, and VA workload. Families can reduce delays by submitting a fully completed VA Form 21-2680, accurate financial records, and all required pension forms at the same time.

We Are Here to Walk Alongside You!

If your family in Springfield or Bloomington is facing new care needs, Aid and Attendance may be one piece of a broader plan. BrightStar Care of Springfield/Bloomington is here to help you create a safe, dignified care plan at home while you explore the VA benefits your loved one has earned.

BrightStar Care of Springfield/Bloomington's team of professionals will assist you in finding the right caregiver for your loved one. Contact us today to learn more about our home care services! Our office is at 801 S MacArthur Blvd, Springfield, IL 62704. You may also call us at (217) 318-3396. 

We look forward to hearing from you!