Housebound

What is housebound allowance?

Housebound allowance is an additional amount available to eligible veterans and dependents who are entitled to VA pension or VA compensation.

Who is eligible for the housebound allowance?

A veteran, dependent spouse, or surviving spouse who because of their physical limitations, is unable to walk or travel beyond their home. This allowance may be granted for those that do not meet the requirements of the greater aid and attendance allowance. If their disabilities are severe enough to confine them to their immediate premises for the foreseeable future they may be entitled to higher income limitations or additional benefits, depending on the type of benefit received.

(Note: If you currently receive pension under one of the earlier pension laws, an election to Improved Pension would be required before the housebound allowance could be included in your monthly payment.)

How Do I Apply?

You should furnish a medical statement covering the findings, diagnosis and prognosis of any recent medical treatment or examination. The doctor's statement or medical report should describe how your ability to perform the personal functions of daily living, such as dressing, feeding, bathing, and attending to the needs of nature, is limited by your medical condition. It should also include the number of hours you spend in bed and describe your posture and general appearance. You may also furnish any other information indicating that you are unable to care for yourself or walk or travel beyond your home because of your condition.

Note: You are not required to incur the expense of the physical examination by a private physician in order to receive consideration. If the detailed medical information about your ability to care for yourself is not available from the doctor's or hospital's current records, VA may arrange for a physical examination.

Related Benefits

Aid and Attendance Compensation Pension

Death pension Dependency Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

FOR MORE INFORMATION YOU MAY CALL TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-827-1000