It takes courage and stamina for a soldier to risk their life for our country. Likewise, it takes stamina to age well in the United States. Insurance and Medicare may not cover the services that today’s aging veterans need. However, there are other options available.
If you or your loved one served in the military, you have access to unique resources that can significantly ease the cost of senior living. This guide will walk you through these exclusive Veterans Administration (VA) programs and resources, explain eligibility requirements, and offer tips for applying.
The VA pension is a vital financial resource for senior veterans with limited income. If you’re eligible, it can provide you with ongoing financial support to help cover living expenses, including room and board, personal care services, and other necessities. This benefit is different from service-connected disability compensation. It depends on financial need, age, and disability status.
As of 2025, a single veteran may receive up to $16,956 (about $1,400 per month) through the basic VA pension program. To qualify, veterans must meet certain income and asset limits and be either age 65 or older or permanently disabled.
First, it’s important to know that the VA offers excellent healthcare benefits. Yet, they don’t cover room and board.
All veterans with a medical need are eligible for the VA’s Standard Medical Benefits Package, which includes:
These services can help you remain independent but won’t cover your rent in any setting, including senior living communities.
The Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit is one of the most valuable resources for veteran retirees. This program provides extra monthly funds (on top of your VA pension) to veterans or surviving spouses who need assistance with simple daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or managing medications.
To qualify for A&A, you must meet one of the following:
In 2025, the net worth limit (income plus assets) required for eligibility is $159,240. Your annual payment amount is the difference between your income and the Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR). In 2025, if you have no dependents, your MAPR is $28,300. You’ll receive A&A benefits monthly.
Again, the VA doesn’t pay room and board for assisted living, but you can cover some personal care services through A&A. This includes:
While your rent may be out-of-pocket, these costs can be offset A&A, which can significantly lower your monthly expenses.
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The application process can take a good amount of time, so it’s best to start early. You’ll need this form and these documents:
You’ll also need to send a written statement that describes your need for A&A benefits. Your statement should explain:
If you’re already living in a skilled nursing community, you’ll also need to complete the Request for Nursing Home Information in Connection with Claim for Aid and Attendance form (VA Form 21-0779).
Applying for A&A can take several months, but once you’re successful, you’ll receive monthly financial support for life.
In some cases, the VA will pay for long-term services directly. These options depend on your medical needs, service history, and financial situation.
VA long-term services could include:
You can receive these services in various settings, including communities run by the VA and others operated by state or community organizations.
The VA contracts with local skilled nursing communities (they call them Nursing Homes) to provide 24/7 skilled nursing care. Veterans who qualify can live in these community homes full-time.
The VA also operates its own skilled nursing and veterans homes, offering long-term services , rehabilitation, and palliative services. These communities focus on veterans with higher disability ratings or financial need. They also limit the number of available spaces.
You can search for VA long-term communities near your location here. This database will provide you with information on each community’s Medicare Quality Measures and Five Star Rating.
The Quality Measures include:
These measures offer you insights into the typical resident’s physical and clinical needs in each community.
The Star Ratings are based on:
Each of these domains is assigned a star rating, and an overall 5-Star rating is calculated. This information (along with other details like personal tours and community websites) can help you compare and contrast your senior living options.
RELATED READING: How to Use the CMS Care Compare Tool to Research Skilled Nursing and Rehab Communities.
Your eligibility for long-term personal care depends on your medical need, disability rating, and available financial resources. The VA prioritizes veterans with service-connected disabilities but also offers personal care to other veterans based on medical need and financial eligibility. Vets with a disability rating of 70% or higher are often fully covered. Those with limited financial resources may receive more assistance, even if their health condition isn’t service-connected.
Applying for VA benefits involves several steps:
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Veterans not eligible for A&A or long-term benefits may still receive financial support through Medicaid or Medicare.
Combining VA benefits with Medicaid is also an option for veterans with limited resources.
RELATED READING: Does Medicare or Medicaid Pay for Senior Living?
When considering a senior living community, ask about their experience working with veteran families. Many communities can help connect you with local resources and explain how VA benefits can offset costs. During your community tours, ask:
Choosing a community familiar with VA benefits can ease the process and ensure you’re maximizing available resources.
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Veterans make incredible sacrifices, and these benefits exist to honor that service. The VA doesn’t cover senior living costs directly. However, Aid and Attendance and long-term personal care benefits can help reduce your expenses and offer much-needed support.
If you’re eligible for VA benefits, get started early. If you need assistance, ask veteran support organizations for help. No matter if you’re planning for the future or dealing with a current need, knowing your options can provide comfort and peace of mind.
Disclaimer: Information provided above may vary by community. We encourage you to speak directly with each Senior Living community to confirm specific details and ensure the community is the right fit for your individual needs and preferences.
