VA Caregiver Support Program

Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

🤝 The PCAFC provides monthly stipends ($2,000+), health insurance, training, and respite care for family members caring for seriously injured veterans.
Section 1

📋 What Is the PCAFC?

The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) supports family members who provide personal care to eligible veterans with serious injuries or illnesses.

💰 Monthly stipend based on veteran's care needs
🏥 CHAMPVA health insurance for the caregiver
📚 Training in caregiving skills
🏖️ 30 days respite care per year
🧠 Mental health counseling for the caregiver
✈️ Travel expenses when accompanying veteran to appointments
Section 2

✅ Eligibility Requirements

Veteran Must

  • Have a 70%+ service-connected rating (or rated at 100% with need for daily personal care)
  • Need personal care services for at least 6 months
  • Have a serious injury incurred or aggravated in the line of duty
  • Be enrolled in VA healthcare

Caregiver Must

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be a family member or live with the veteran
  • Provide personal care services to the veteran
  • Complete VA caregiver training
2020 MISSION Act Expansion: PCAFC was expanded to include veterans from ALL service eras, not just post-9/11. If you were previously denied, consider reapplying.
Section 3

💰 Stipend Levels

The monthly stipend is based on the GS pay scale for the veteran's geographic area and the level of care needed.

💵 Stipend Calculation

  • Based on GS-06 Step 1 salary for your area
  • Percentage depends on care level (62.5% or 100%)
  • Monthly amounts typically $2,000–$3,500+
  • Tax-free income

📊 Care Levels

  • Tier 1: Moderate assistance needs
  • Tier 2: Significant assistance needs — higher stipend
  • Level determined by VA clinical assessment
Section 4

🏥 Caregiver Health Insurance

If the Primary Family Caregiver is not eligible for other health insurance (employer, Medicare, etc.), the VA provides CHAMPVA coverage.

🏥 CHAMPVA coverage for the caregiver
💊 Prescription coverage included
🧠 Mental health services covered
Section 5

📝 How to Apply

1
Complete VA Form 10-10CG — Application for Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. Both the veteran and caregiver must sign. Available at VA.gov.
2
Submit online, by mail, or in person at your local VA medical center's Caregiver Support Program office.
3
VA conducts a clinical assessment to determine the veteran's care needs and the caregiver's ability to provide care.
4
Complete required training provided by the VA Caregiver Support Team.
5
If approved: Stipend payments begin, along with access to all PCAFC benefits.
Caregiver Support Line: Call 1-855-260-3274 for help with applications, questions, or to find your local Caregiver Support Coordinator.
Section 6

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

A: Yes. Spouses, parents, children (18+), and other family members can serve as Primary Family Caregivers. They don't need medical training — the VA provides required training.

A: The caregiver stipend is considered difficult-to-care-for pay and may be excludable from taxable income in many cases. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.

A: Yes. You can have one Primary Family Caregiver (who receives the full stipend and benefits) and up to two Secondary Family Caregivers (who receive some benefits but a smaller stipend).

A: You can appeal the decision or reapply. Many veterans are initially denied due to documentation issues. The Caregiver Support Coordinator can help you understand what's needed and guide your reapplication.