VA Caregiver Program (PCAFC) 2026: Key Numbers

Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers

98K
Caregivers Served
$2.6B
FY2025 Budget
71%
Denial Rate
Monthly Stipend Rates (Tax-Free)

Level 1

62.5% of GS-4 Step 1
$1,896 - $2,370
per month
Veteran needs help with ADLs or supervision

Level 2

100% of GS-4 Step 1
$3,034 - $3,791
per month
Veteran unable to self-sustain in community
Full Benefits Package
✓ Tax-free stipend based on your area's GS-4 locality rate
✓ CHAMPVA health insurance with no monthly premiums
✓ 30+ days respite care per year (in-home, day care, or nursing)
✓ Mental health counseling via telehealth for caregiver
✓ Education and training with peer support mentoring
✓ Travel expenses for caregiving-related trips
71%
of applications are denied on first attempt
Most denials are documentation failures, not eligibility failures. Specific ADL descriptions, supervision needs, and buddy statements dramatically improve approval odds.

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Stipend ranges based on 2026 GS-4 Step 1 base ($31,103) with Rest of US (17.06%) to San Francisco (46.34%) locality. Enrollment and budget from VA FY2025 data. Denial rate from VA program reporting.