VA Aid & Attendance in St. Louis, Missouri
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 Missouri, this program is known as Missouri VA Aid & Attendance. Contact your state agency for details about VA Aid & Attendance in Missouri.
Eligibility Requirements in Missouri
| Requirement | Missouri 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 Missouri resident |
| Level of care | Must need assistance with activities of daily living |
How to Apply in St. Louis, Missouri
- Gather service records (DD-214) and medical documentation
- Contact Missouri Department of Social Services at (573) 751-4815 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
Your local Area Agency on Aging - the St. Louis Area Agency on Aging at (314) 612-5918 - can also help you navigate the application process at no charge.
Get Your Application Checklist →Frequently Asked Questions About VA Aid & Attendance in St. Louis
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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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Veteran Aid in Other Missouri Cities
Need Help With the Application?
Download our free application checklist for Missouri VA Aid & Attendance, or let our Grant Concierge handle the paperwork for you.