Can a surviving spouse of a veteran get Aid & Attendance for home care?
Key facts
- 2026 Survivor A&A max
- ~$1,515/month tax-free
- Non-remarriage rule
- Must not have remarried (some later-terminated exceptions)
- Hours funded at SE MI Personal Care rate
- ~9–13 hrs/week
- Survivor’s service history
- Not required — only the deceased veteran’s
- 2026 net-worth limit
- ~$159,240
Surviving spouses are one of the most under-claimed groups in the VA pension system. The benefit exists precisely for the aging widow or widower who is now living alone, running out of assets, and needs paid help at home. The 2026 maximum is roughly $1,515/month, tax-free.
Three tests apply. First: the deceased veteran must have met wartime service (90+ days active duty with at least one day during a declared wartime period, honorable discharge). Second: the surviving spouse must not have remarried after the veteran’s death (or, in some cases, must have terminated a later marriage). Third: the surviving spouse must personally meet the medical need (2+ ADLs) and financial limits ($159,240 net worth in 2026).
The surviving spouse’s own service history is irrelevant. What matters is the veteran spouse’s service and the survivor’s current medical and financial situation. Marriage duration matters only for the base pension entitlement, not typically for A&A once the base pension is granted.
At Southeast Michigan Personal Care rates ($29–$37/hr), $1,515/month funds roughly 9–13 hours per week of paid home care. Common usage: three 3-hour weekday shifts covering shower, meal, medication, and hygiene, or two longer weekend blocks so an out-of-town adult child does not have to drive up every weekend.
For the full breakdown, see the cornerstone: VA Aid & Attendance for Home Care guide.
Related questions
- What if we cannot find the DD-214?
- The National Archives (NARA) issues certified replacement copies to next of kin at no charge. A VSO or county VA office can assist.
- Does a common-law marriage count?
- Only if Michigan (or the state of celebration) recognized the marriage. Michigan does not recognize new common-law marriages after 1957.
- Can Survivor A&A stack with Social Security?
- Yes. Social Security is countable income, but the benefit is offset by unreimbursed medical expenses (home care), which often preserves eligibility.
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