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VA Caregiver Program (PCAFC) requirements & application checklist

Who qualifies for VA's Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers — and everything to gather before you apply.

Who qualifies for PCAFC

VA requires all of the following to be met. Eligibility is decided by VA, not by this page.

The veteran

• Has a single or combined VA service-connected disability rating of 70% or higher.
• Needs in-person personal care services for a minimum of six continuous months, based on at least one of: an inability to perform an activity of daily living; a need for supervision or protection due to a neurological or other impairment; or a need for regular or extensive instruction or supervision.
• It is in the individual's best interest to take part in the program.
• Personal care services will not be simultaneously provided by another entity, whether in or outside the home.
• Receives care at home (or agrees to), and receives ongoing care from a VA Primary Care Team.

The caregiver

• Is at least 18 years old.
• Is a family member of the veteran, or someone who lives with the veteran full-time (or will do so if designated).

This applies to caregivers of veterans. If the person you care for isn't a veteran, see our Medicaid Structured Family Caregiving guide instead.

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Confirm the veteran has a single or combined service-connected disability rating of 70% or moreCheck the veteran's VA rating decision letter or VA.gov profile.
Confirm the veteran needs in-person personal care for a minimum of 6 continuous monthsThe care must be related to the service-connected condition(s).
Caregiver applicant is at least 18 years old
Caregiver applicant is a qualifying family member or lives full-time with the veteranSpouse, child, parent, step-family, or extended family members may qualify. Full-time co-residency is required if not a family member.
VA Form 10-10CG (joint application) downloaded or ready to complete onlineYou can apply online at VA.gov or submit a paper form.
Veteran's signature readyThe application must be signed jointly by the caregiver applicant and the veteran, or the veteran's representative.
Nearest VA Caregiver Support Program team identifiedContact the Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274 or find a team via caregiver.va.gov.
Direct deposit enrollment readyRequired to receive the monthly stipend once approved. Have bank account and routing details available.

After applying, you and the veteran will complete a home-care assessment and evaluations before a decision is made.

FeatherKeep keeps your caregiving records, training documentation, and care hours organized automatically, so you're ready for evaluations and ongoing program requirements.

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This checklist is general information, not legal, medical, or VA benefits advice. Requirements and program details change — confirm the current requirements at caregiver.va.gov before you apply, or speak with a VA-accredited representative.