THE SHORT ANSWER

Wartime veterans and their surviving spouses may qualify for VA Aid and Attendance, a monthly pension that can help pay for assisted living, home care, or a nursing home. Through November 2026, the maximum is $2,424 per month for a single veteran and $1,558 per month for a surviving spouse. Eligibility depends on service dates, care needs, and a net worth limit of $163,699. Free help applying is available from county veterans service agencies.

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It's often called the benefit nobody told you about. Many families don't learn about Aid and Attendance until a parent has been paying for care for months — and surviving spouses are among those most likely to miss it.

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Veterans’ benefits

VA Aid and Attendance in New York (2026 Rates)

VA Aid and Attendance is a monthly, tax-free pension for wartime veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily living. For payments through…

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