Do Your Parents or In-Laws Qualify for Veterans Benefits? Many Eligible Families Don’t Realize Help Exists

When families think of veterans benefits, they often picture disability compensation, health care, or education programs — but many don’t realize there are additional benefits that can support aging parents, caregiving family members, and even survivors. These programs can make an enormous difference, yet they are some of the most overlooked.

Below is an overview of five key benefits many families don’t realize they may qualify for.

Aid & Attendance

Aid & Attendance is an enhanced pension benefit for veterans (and surviving spouses) who need help with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, medication management, or mobility. This benefit is especially valuable for older veterans because it can help offset the cost of in-home care, assisted living, or nursing care. Veterans must already qualify for a VA pension to apply.

Disability Compensation

VA Disability Compensation is a tax-free monthly benefit for veterans with a service-connected disability — physical or mental. There is no age requirement, and the monthly amount increases with the severity of the disability. This benefit can also open doors to additional support programs, including certain enhanced compensation levels for veterans who need hands-on assistance.

Caregiver Stipend

Family members who provide in-home care for an eligible veteran may qualify for a monthly caregiver stipend through the VA’s Family Caregiver Assistance Program. This includes spouses, adult children, parents, and even extended family. Caregivers may also receive education, training, mental health support, respite care, and access to CHAMPVA health coverage if they are the veteran’s primary caregiver.

Caregiving Resources

Beyond the stipend program, the VA offers robust caregiving resources such as care coordinators, support teams at every VA medical center, peer support groups, respite care, and training designed to help caregivers avoid burnout and navigate the complexities of long-term care. These programs are free and often underutilized simply because families don’t know they exist.

Burial Benefits

Eligible veterans can be laid to rest in a VA national cemetery at no cost to the family, including the gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, headstone or marker, perpetual care, and military honors (when requested). Families may also qualify for a burial allowance to help cover funeral expenses and transportation of remains. Planning ahead — even requesting a pre-need eligibility determination — can greatly reduce stress later.

Many Families Miss Out — You Don’t Have To

Whether you’re supporting an aging parent who served, caring for a spouse with service-connected injuries, or thinking ahead about long-term planning, these benefits can ease financial and emotional burdens. The key is knowing they’re available — and reaching out to the VA or a Veterans Service Officer to help you apply.

Information sourced from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov).