Author: Andrea Miller
Reviewed By: Gene Altaffer

VA benefits for assisted living are retroactive if you use disability or Aid and Attendance to pay these expenses. When you apply for these programs, the VA assigns an effective date to your claim. Upon benefit approval, you will receive back pay for the time between the effective date and the claim approval date.

How does the VA assign an effective date for your claim?

The VA uses the date it receives your disability claim as the effective date. However, to receive retroactive pay, you must file your claim within a year of discharge for a service-related illness or injury.

Some service-related disabilities arise more than a year after you leave the military. In this case, the VA approves claims for eligible injuries and conditions, as long as you have a disability rating of at least 10%. The effective date for retroactive pay is still the claim receipt date.

What does the VA cover for assisted living services?

The VA covers assisted living services such as help with daily activities through its health care plan. Your physician must attest to your medical need for this type of assistance when you file a claim. 

Additional assisted living help is available through Aid and Attendance. This program increases your monthly pension if you require assistance for grooming, bathing, dressing and other regular tasks. Disability benefits through the VA go toward your living expenses, including the cost of assisted living if needed.