PATHWAY 04 · NAVIGATE · VA BENEFITS & SERVICES
Every benefit your veteran earned, in the order you'll actually need it.
The VA has more than one caregiver program, and they have different rules. This walks you through which door to knock on first, what paperwork to gather before you knock, and who — for free — is allowed to file on the veteran's behalf.
Who to call
Start with the VA Caregiver Support Coordinator at the medical center where the veteran gets care. For anything involving a claim, add an accredited VSO — VFW, DAV, American Legion, or your county veterans service officer.
What information you need
The DD-214, the veteran's VA health care status, written notes from a doctor about the daily help needed, and the current disability rating letter if there is one. Income records matter for pension-based benefits like Aid & Attendance.
When to reach out
Before you fill anything out. A ten-minute call with a coordinator often saves months, because they will tell you which program actually fits and what evidence is missing.
How this helps you
Depending on the program, it can mean a monthly stipend for you, health coverage for you, respite so you can sleep, training, or more money each month for the veteran.
We do not file or prepare VA claims, and we never charge for any of this. Only a VA-accredited representative may do that work — and they cannot legally charge you to file a claim. Our job is to get your paperwork in order and get you to the right free person.
Before you read on
This pathway is informational and navigational only. It is not legal, medical, or financial advice, and we are not a government agency. We help you understand your paperwork and get you to the right free, qualified person.
Where are you in this right now?
Pick the one that sounds most like your week. You can change it at any time.