Support for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

What it is

Caring for a veteran with a serious disability is a full-time job. VA has two main programs to help:

• Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC): The bigger program. It can include a monthly stipend paid to the Primary Family Caregiver, health insurance through CHAMPVA if the caregiver has no other coverage, mental health counseling, at least 30 days of respite care a year, travel help for appointments, and caregiver training.
• Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS): Open to caregivers of any enrolled veteran. It offers training, peer support, coaching and help finding services.

Who qualifies

For PCAFC, the veteran must:

• Have a VA service-connected rating of 70% or higher, alone or combined
• Have been discharged or have a medical discharge date
• Need at least six continuous months of in-person personal care, such as help with daily activities or supervision for safety
• Be enrolled in VA health care

The caregiver must be at least 18 and be a spouse, child, parent, stepfamily member, extended family member, or someone who lives full time with the veteran (or will).

A veteran can have one Primary Family Caregiver and up to two Secondary Family Caregivers.

Recent changes

In November 2025, VA finalized a rule that protects "legacy" participants, meaning families who joined under the older rules. They keep their eligibility and their stipend level through September 30, 2028, except in limited cases. VA has also proposed broader updates to who qualifies. Check with your local Caregiver Support Team for the latest.

How the stipend works

The stipend is based on federal pay rates for the area where you live, and on how much care the veteran needs. Because it is tied to where you live, a move can raise or lower the stipend. VA does not list a single dollar figure because it varies by location.

How it works when you are relocating

1. Tell your current Caregiver Support Team as soon as you know you are moving.
2. Update your address on VA.gov.
3. Ask to have your case moved to the Caregiver Support Team at your new VA medical center.
4. Expect a home visit or check-in at the new address.
5. Ask how the move affects your stipend.

VA checks in at least every 120 days and makes one home visit a year, so keep your team informed.

How to apply

1. The veteran and caregiver apply together using form 10-10CG. Both must sign.
2. Apply online, by mail, or in person with the Caregiver Support Team at your VA medical center. Do not send medical records with the form.
3. VA reviews eligibility and does an assessment.
4. The caregiver completes training and a home check.
5. VA aims to make a decision within 90 days.

Common mistakes

• Assuming you need a 100% rating. 70% may be enough.
• Not applying because the veteran's needs seem "normal" to the family. Write down every task you do each day.
• Forgetting the Secondary Caregiver option for backup help.
• Burning out. Use respite care and the Caregiver Support Line (855-260-3274).

Related benefits

Look at Aid and Attendance (for pension or DIC), the Specially Adapted Housing grant, and Home and Community Based Services through VA health care.