When we talk about Veterans’ benefits, we often think of disability compensation or health care. But behind many Veterans is a family caregiver – often a spouse, parent, adult child, or close friend – who provides the day-to-day support that makes independence possible. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes this vital role through the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC).
This program provides financial and practical support to qualifying caregivers of Veterans with serious service-connected injuries or illnesses. While originally limited to post-9/11 Veterans, PCAFC has been expanded to include eligible Veterans from all eras.
So, what does this mean in practical terms? Eligible caregivers can receive a monthly stipend, access to health insurance through CHAMPVA (if not otherwise eligible), mental health counseling, caregiver training, and even respite care. This support isn’t just for the Veteran – it’s for the person helping them stand, walk, bathe, drive to appointments, manage medications, and sometimes just get through the day.
To be eligible, the Veteran must:
- Be enrolled in VA health care.
- Have a service-connected disability (or a condition treated as if service-connected) that was incurred or aggravated in the line of duty.
- Have a single or combined disability rating of 70% or higher (service-connected).
- Require in-person personal care services for a minimum of six continuous months, based on the Veteran’s inability to perform an activity of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, managing medications), or due to a need for supervision or protection because of a neurological or cognitive impairment.
- Additionally, the caregiver applicant must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be the Veteran’s spouse, child, parent, stepfamily member, extended family member, or someone who lives with the Veteran full-time.
- Complete required training and agree to VA home visits and evaluations.
Applying for PCAFC involves both the Veteran and caregiver filling out VA Form 10-10CG. The process includes a clinical evaluation to determine the Veteran’s need for personal care services. The application may be completed online. https://www.va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits/health-and-disability/comprehensive-assistance-for-family-caregivers/apply-form-10-10cg/introduction
Supporting a Veteran is a selfless act that deserves recognition – and resources. If you or someone you know is providing care to a seriously disabled Veteran, don’t wait to explore this program. It’s not just about benefits – it’s about ensuring caregivers get the care they need, too.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
