VA Aid & Attendance in Dallas, Texas
What is VA Aid & Attendance?
The VA Aid & Attendance benefit is a tax-free pension enhancement for eligible veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities or are housebound. It provides monthly cash payments that can be used to pay for in-home care, assisted living, adult day care, or nursing home care. Many eligible veterans never apply because they don't know the benefit exists - an estimated $2 billion in VA Aid & Attendance benefits go unclaimed each year.
In Texas, this program is known as VA Aid & Attendance (Texas). Texas has the second-largest veteran population in the nation. The Texas Veterans Commission provides free benefits counseling. Multiple VA medical centers serve Texas veterans across the state.
Eligibility Requirements in Texas
| Requirement | Texas Standard (2026) |
|---|---|
| Age | 65 or older (or disabled) |
| Income (single person) | $2,742/month |
| Income (married couple) | $5,484/month |
| Asset limit | Typically $2,000 individual; home often exempt |
| Residency | Must be a Texas resident |
| Level of care | Must need assistance with activities of daily living |
| Additional requirement | Must meet wartime service and income/asset requirements |
How to Apply in Dallas, Texas
- Gather service records (DD-214) and medical documentation
- Contact Texas Health and Human Services Commission at (512) 424-6500 or your local VA Regional Office
- Complete VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid & Attendance)
- Submit VA Form 21P-527EZ (Application for Pension Benefits)
- Include all supporting documentation with your application
- Online application: You can start the application process online at Texas Health and Human Services Commission's website.
Your local Area Agency on Aging - the Dallas Area Agency on Aging at (214) 871-5065 - can also help you navigate the application process at no charge.
Get Your Application Checklist →Frequently Asked Questions About VA Aid & Attendance in Dallas
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What is the VA Aid & Attendance benefit amount in 2026?In 2026, the maximum monthly Aid & Attendance benefit is $2,431 for a veteran with a dependent spouse, $1,938 for a single veteran, $1,244 for a surviving spouse, and $3,074 for a couple when both need aid & attendance.
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What wars qualify for VA Aid & Attendance?Qualifying wartime periods include World War II (Dec 7, 1941 - Dec 31, 1946), Korean War (Jun 27, 1950 - Jan 31, 1955), Vietnam Era (Aug 5, 1964 - May 7, 1975), and Gulf War (Aug 2, 1990 - present).
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How long does the VA Aid & Attendance application take?Processing times vary, but applications typically take 6-12 months for a decision. A VA-accredited claims agent or attorney can help expedite the process.
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Can I receive both VA Aid & Attendance and Medicaid?VA Aid & Attendance income may affect Medicaid eligibility since it counts as income. Consult with a benefits counselor to understand how receiving one benefit affects the other.
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Is VA Aid & Attendance taxable income?No, VA Aid & Attendance pension benefits are tax-free and do not need to be reported as income on your federal or state tax returns.
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Need Help With the Application?
Download our free application checklist for VA Aid & Attendance (Texas), or let our Grant Concierge handle the paperwork for you.