The VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) pays a monthly stipend to the primary family caregiver of a seriously injured Veteran. The amount is not a guess and it is not the same everywhere: it is tied to a federal pay rate where the Veteran lives. This calculator uses the 2026 numbers.
1. Where the Veteran lives
2. Stipend level
3. Quick eligibility check
See the exact stipend for your area
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How the caregiver stipend is calculated
By regulation (38 CFR 71.40), the monthly stipend starts from the annual salary for a federal employee at grade GS-4, step 1, in the locality pay area where the Veteran lives. VA divides that by 12, then pays either 62.5% of it (Level 1) or 100% of it (Level 2).
| Area (2026) | GS-4, step 1 | Level 1 / month | Level 2 / month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rest of United States | $36,409 | $1,896.30 | $3,034.08 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth, TX-OK | $39,582 | $2,061.56 | $3,298.50 |
| Houston, TX | $41,989 | $2,186.93 | $3,499.08 |
| San Antonio, TX | $36,944 | $1,924.17 | $3,078.67 |
| Washington-Baltimore | $41,659 | $2,169.74 | $3,471.58 |
| San Diego, CA | $41,591 | $2,166.20 | $3,465.92 |
Computed from the 2026 OPM General Schedule locality tables (a 1% raise, with locality percentages unchanged from 2025). VA does not publish a per-area stipend table; these follow the formula in the regulation and match the rounding in VA's own fact-sheet example.
What else PCAFC can include
Beyond the stipend, VA lists caregiver training, respite care, mental health counseling, travel and lodging for the Veteran's care, and, for eligible primary family caregivers without other coverage, health coverage through CHAMPVA. The joint application is VA Form 10-10CG. VA's Caregiver Support Line is 855-260-3274.
Is the Veteran a military retiree?
Seriously injured retirees often qualify for more than one thing. CRSC is a separate, tax-free DoD payment that can give back retired pay offset by VA compensation, for combat-related conditions. It does not affect the caregiver stipend.
Run the Free CRSC CalculatorCRSC is a DoD program under 10 U.S.C. 1413a. Your branch decides every case.Frequently asked questions
How much is the VA caregiver stipend in 2026?
It depends on where the Veteran lives. In the "Rest of United States" locality it is about $1,896 a month at Level 1 and $3,034 a month at Level 2, based on the 2026 GS-4, step 1 salary of $36,409. Metro areas pay more.
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2?
Level 1 pays 62.5% of the monthly GS-4, step 1 rate. Level 2 pays 100% and applies when VA determines the Veteran is unable to self-sustain in the community.
Who qualifies for the VA caregiver program?
The Veteran needs a service-connected rating of 70% or more (single or combined), needs personal care for at least six continuous months, and must meet the other requirements in 38 CFR 71.20. Veterans of all service eras are now covered.
Is the caregiver stipend based on where the caregiver lives?
No. The regulation ties the rate to the locality pay area where the eligible Veteran lives.