For many veteran families, caregiving is both an honor and a daily challenge. The Department of
Veterans Affairs offers several caregiver support programs designed to ease that burden, but
knowing which program fits your situation—and how to qualify—can feel overwhelming. The
three primary programs are the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers
(PCAFC), the Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS), and VA Community Care
for inhome support. Each serves a different purpose, and understanding the distinctions can
help families access the right level of support.
The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) is the most robust
option, offering a monthly stipend, training, health insurance (CHAMPVA), respite care, and
ongoing VA support. To qualify, the veteran must have a serious injury or illness connected to
their service and require at least six months of inperson personal care. The caregiver must be at
least 18 years old and complete VA training and an assessment. The application is submitted
through VA Form 1010CG, followed by clinical evaluations and a home visit to confirm the level
of need.
The Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS) is open to all veterans enrolled in
VA health care—no serviceconnection or disability rating required. This program does not
provide a stipend, but it offers valuable resources such as caregiver training, support groups,
mental health services, and access to a dedicated Caregiver Support Coordinator. Qualification
is simple: the veteran must be enrolled in VA health care, and the caregiver must be someone
who helps with daily tasks or emotional support. No formal application is required; families can
enroll by contacting their local VA Caregiver Support Program office.
Finally, VA Community Care for inhome support allows eligible veterans to receive home care
services from approved nonVA providers when the VA cannot provide timely or accessible care.
To qualify, the veteran must be enrolled in VA health care and meet one of the Community
Care eligibility criteria—such as long wait times, geographic barriers, or clinical needs. A VA
provider must submit a referral, and the VA must issue an authorization before services begin.
Once approved, veterans can choose a provider within the Community Care Network and
receive assistance with personal care, homemaking, or skilled services depending on their
authorization.