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The Veterans Administration offers many benefits to the families and loved ones of veterans, including two programs that offer valuable assistance to their caregivers. This crucial support helps tens of thousands of caregivers around the country provide the best care possible to the veterans who have served their country and now need help in their lives.
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The VA Caregiver Support Program consists of the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) and the Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS).
The PCAFC provides full-surround support to those caring for veterans injured in the line of duty who have a high level of disability. The PGCSS offers a range of supports and resources for those caring for veterans who need assistance with daily living or supervision.
Before you can access either of these programs, the veteran you’re caring for must be enrolled in VA health care. There are four ways to apply.
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Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)
The PCAFC is for spouses, dependent children, and family caregivers of eligible veterans who were seriously injured in the line of duty and who meet various eligibility requirements. As of last October, this program is open to family caregivers of eligible veterans from all eras. The veteran can appoint one main caregiver and two secondary caregivers to serve as backups.
Caregivers may receive a financial stipend and health care benefits through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). Also available are caregiver education and training, mental health counseling, financial assistance when traveling with the veteran to receive care, and at least 30 days per year of respite care for the veteran. Caregivers enrolled in PCAFC can also access all the training, mentorship and support that those enrolled in PGCSS receive.
Eligibility: The caregiver and the veteran must meet a short list of specific requirements to qualify for PCAFC. The caregiver must be at least 18 years old and be a spouse, child, parent, stepfamily member or extended family member of the veteran. They also must live full-time with the veteran or be willing to do so.
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