Filing for Aid and Attendance/Housebound
Overview
Veterans in need of Aid and Attendance or those who are Housebound can file for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) or Special Monthly Pension (SMP) to receive additional financial support.
Chief's Take: Aid & Attendance and Housebound are SMC categories for veterans who need help with daily activities or are substantially confined to their home. The criteria are specific and the extra compensation is significant. Check if you qualify.
What is Aid and Attendance?
Aid and Attendance is a benefit paid to veterans who need help with daily activities such as: - Bathing - Dressing - Eating - Adjusting prosthetic devices - Protecting themselves from hazards of daily environment
What is Housebound?
Housebound status applies to veterans who are substantially confined to their home due to disability.
Eligibility
For SMC Aid and Attendance
- Must have a service-connected disability
- Must require regular aid and attendance of another person
- OR be permanently bedridden
- OR have significant blindness
For SMP Aid and Attendance
- Must meet VA pension eligibility requirements
- Must require regular aid and attendance of another person
- OR be permanently bedridden
Application Process
Step 1: Complete Required Forms
VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance)
- Complete Sections I-V yourself
- Have your Primary Care Physician (PCP) complete Sections VI-VIII
VA Form 21-0779 (Request for Nursing Home Information) - Required if in a nursing home - Complete Sections I-III yourself - Nursing home official completes Sections IV-V
Important Notes: - The claimant is the individual requiring Aid and Attendance or classified as Housebound - In block 13, select the correct benefit type being requested - If your PCP declines to complete the form, file a claim using VA Form 21-526EZ and request a VA examination
Step 2: Upload/Submit Documentation
- Submit completed forms via the VA quick submit portal at eauth.va.gov
- Include any supporting medical evidence strengthening your claim
- Use VA Form 21-4142/a if you cannot obtain private medical records yourself; the VA will attempt retrieval
Processing
This claim differs from TDIU as it is not automatically treated as a claim for increase. With proper documentation, you likely won't require a Compensation and Pension examination, allowing relatively prompt claim resolution.
SMC Levels for Aid and Attendance/Housebound
Per 38 CFR 3.350, the relevant SMC levels are:
| SMC Level | Requirement | 2026 Rate (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| SMC-S | Housebound: 100% schedular rating PLUS 60%+ additional independent disability OR substantially confined to home | $4,408/month |
| SMC-L | Need for regular aid and attendance of another person | $5,046/month |
| SMC-L½ | A&A + loss/loss of use of one additional extremity | $5,302/month |
| SMC-R1 | A&A + need for higher level of care (in-home nursing) | $10,420/month |
| SMC-R2 | Need for healthcare services in a protected residential facility | $11,956/month |
Important Distinctions: - Housebound (SMC-S) is separate from Aid and Attendance—it requires being confined to home, not needing daily care assistance - SMC-L through SMC-O are progressive levels based on combinations of disabilities - SMC-R levels are the highest and require the most intensive care needs
Current Rates
Rates are adjusted annually (typically October 1). Check current amounts at: - VA SMC Rate Tables - 38 CFR 3.350 - Special Monthly Compensation Rates
Tips for Approval
- Be detailed in describing daily limitations
- Have your doctor thoroughly complete the medical portions
- Include statements from caregivers about assistance provided
- Document frequency of assistance needed (daily, multiple times daily)
- Keep a log of care activities for several weeks before filing
Reference
- M21-1, Part II, Subpart iii, Chapter 3, Section B covers applications for AA and Housebound benefits