How to Apply for the VA Family Caregiver Program

What to have in front of you

• Veteran’s and each caregiver’s full name, date of birth, address, phone, Social Security or tax identification number
• VA medical center and primary-care team information
• Name of one proposed Primary Family Caregiver and up to two proposed Secondary Family Caregivers
• Legal-authority document if a representative signs for the Veteran
• A saved copy or confirmation of the completed joint application

What to say when someone answers

“We want to apply for PCAFC using VA Form 10-10CG. Please confirm the correct VA medical center, required signatures, whether a representative document is needed, and how we will know the application passed intake.”

Small but useful: Write down the person’s name, the date, the exact next step, and when you should call again.

Do this in order

1. 1

   Review the current Veteran and caregiver eligibility requirements before filing; a 70% or higher service-connected disability rating is one threshold, but it is not the only criterion.

2. 2

   Complete one joint application with information and signatures for the Veteran and every proposed caregiver.

3. 3

   Submit online, mail to the 10-10CG Evidence Intake Center, or deliver it to the local VA caregiver support team. Do not include medical records unless VA specifically asks.

4. 4

   Save proof of submission and answer scheduling calls for the Veteran, caregiver, and home-care assessments.

What happens next

VA checks basic eligibility and application completeness, then the local caregiver support team conducts clinical assessments and training steps. Final approval depends on all program criteria, including a need for in-person personal care services for at least six continuous months.