Families Are Missing Out: Caregiving Stipends, Survivor Support & More—Does Your Veteran Qualify?

When it comes to supporting aging veterans, many families don’t realize the full range of benefits available. From financial assistance for caregivers to survivor support, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers programs that can make a meaningful difference in daily life—but only if families know to access them.

Caregiving Stipends: Support for Those Who Give the Most

Caring for a loved one is a labor of love—but it’s also a significant financial and emotional commitment. The VA’s caregiver stipend programs provide monthly financial support to qualified family members who serve as primary caregivers for veterans. This benefit can help offset the cost of in-home care, reduce stress, and allow caregivers to focus on the well-being of the veteran rather than worrying about additional expenses.

Survivor Benefits: Honoring a Veteran’s Life and Service

When a veteran passes away, the support doesn’t automatically end. Survivor benefits, such as Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) or survivor pensions, provide ongoing financial assistance to spouses and dependents. Many families miss out simply because they don’t know these benefits exist—or they assume the process is too complex to navigate.

Aid & Attendance: Enhancing Quality of Life

Aid & Attendance is a benefit often overlooked, yet it can dramatically improve the quality of life for veterans and their spouses. It provides additional financial assistance to those who need help with daily activities—like bathing, dressing, or managing medications. For veterans over 65, this can be a game-changer in maintaining dignity and independence at home or in assisted living.

Who Qualifies?

Eligibility isn’t limited to combat veterans or those with service-related disabilities. In many cases, veterans with non-service-connected conditions who meet certain age or health criteria may qualify. Caregivers, spouses, and surviving family members may also be eligible for support programs.

Why Families Don’t Apply

There are several common reasons families miss out:

• Assuming they won’t qualify
  
• Overwhelmed by paperwork or process
  
• Unaware of the range of benefits beyond pensions or medical care
  

But with the right guidance, these barriers can be overcome—ensuring veterans and their families receive the support they’ve earned.

Take Action Today

If you have a veteran in your family, it’s worth exploring every benefit that could provide comfort, dignity, and financial support. Our office is VA-accredited and passionate about helping families access these programs.

Call us at (949) 333-3702 to discuss what benefits might be available. Don’t let your loved one miss out on the support they’ve earned through service.