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Caregiver programs: PCAFC and PGCSS
If someone at home helps you with daily life because of your service-connected conditions, VA may pay them a monthly stipend and give them health coverage, training, and respite. The big program starts at 70%.
At a glance
| PCAFC (comprehensive) | Veteran rated 70% or more (single or combined), any era, who needs in-person personal care for at least 6 months. Caregiver gets a monthly stipend, CHAMPVA if uninsured, training, mental health support, travel, and at least 30 days of respite a year |
| PGCSS (general) | Any era, no rating required. Veteran must be enrolled in VA health care. Caregiver gets training, coaching, peer support, and resources. No stipend |
| Stipend | Based on the GS-4 step 1 federal pay rate for your area, divided by 12. Level 1 pays 62.5% of that; Level 2 (veteran cannot self-sustain in the community) pays 100% |
| Form | VA Form 10-10CG, joint application by veteran and caregiver, online or by mail. No application for PGCSS: call your VA facility's Caregiver Support Coordinator |
| Official page | va.gov PCAFC |
Traps and 2026 status
- "Personal care" means hands-on help with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, moving around) or supervision, protection, or instruction for safety. Paying bills and driving to appointments do not count by themselves.
- The assessment is clinical. A VA team evaluates the veteran. Be specific and honest about bad days.
- Proposed expansion is not final. VA proposed broader rules in December 2024. As of Oct 2026 they have not taken effect; the 70% rule stands. "Legacy" participants are protected through Sept 30, 2028.
- Caregivers of PCAFC veterans also get commissary, exchange, and MWR access.
Sources
- VA PCAFC (page updated Feb 11, 2026)
- Caregiver Support Program: PCAFC (page updated Jul 14, 2026)
- PCAFC stipend (page updated Sep 14, 2026)
- PGCSS (page updated Sep 14, 2026)
- 38 CFR 71.20 eligible veterans (amended Sep 29, 2025)
- VA News: PCAFC legacy eligibility extended (Nov 20, 2025)
- VA Form 10-10CG (form revised Feb 2025)
All links checked and content verified on Oct 16, 2026. Rules change; confirm on the official page before you act.