Skip to main content

All information & resources here are free. Optional accredited representation is a paid service - and upfront fees for an initial VA claim are never allowed.

702-992-4883

Caregivers

Respite Care

Short-term care that gives a family caregiver a much-needed break - at home, in a facility, or through adult day programs.

An Asian American daughter caregiver taking a peaceful break outdoors while a respite aide sits with her father

Who this is for

Family caregiver

In plain language

What Respite Care covers

  • Temporary relief so you can rest, run errands, or handle your own health
  • Can be provided in the home or at a VA or community setting
  • Available to caregivers of veterans enrolled in VA health care

VA Caregiver Support Program (PGCSS & PCAFC)Official video - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - theSITREP

The full picture

Everything you need to know

Nothing hidden behind a click. Here is the whole story in plain language, so you can decide what fits your situation.

Key facts & current figures

  • Provides short-term relief in the home, at a VA or community facility, or through adult day programs.
  • Generally available to caregivers of veterans enrolled in VA health care; standard health-care copays may apply for the veteran.
  • Arrange it through the veteran's VA care team or Caregiver Support Coordinator.

General figures, current as of December 2025 and reviewed each year. Your exact amount depends on your situation - always confirm on va.gov.

What respite care actually looks like

  • Respite care is short-term help that covers for you so you can rest, go to your own appointments, or handle errands.
  • It can happen in the home, where a trained aide comes to you, at a VA or community facility for a short stay, or through an adult day health-care program.

Who can get it, and what it costs

  • It is generally available to caregivers of veterans enrolled in VA health care. The standard VA health-care copay may apply for the veteran's days of care.
  • Caregivers approved under the PCAFC program can receive up to 30 days of respite each year.

How to arrange it

  • Ask the veteran's VA care team or your Caregiver Support Coordinator to set it up.
  • The Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274 can also point you to what is available near you.

The bigger picture for your family

You do not have to sort this out alone

Respite Care often stacks with the other benefits below. Our free assistant explains it in plain language, and an accredited specialist can review your situation at no cost.

A clear path forward

Your step-by-step action plan

No rush and no pressure - but a little order helps. Applying is always free.

1

First

See what you qualify for

Short-term care that gives a family caregiver a much-needed break - at home, in a facility, or through adult day programs.

2

Gather

Collect your documents

Pull your DD-214 and any records that support your claim - we can help you figure out exactly what you need.

3

File it - always free

Apply for the benefit

Ask the veteran's VA care team or Caregiver Support Coordinator to arrange respite care.

Who to call & where to go

These are free, official VA lines. Have your Social Security number handy when you call.

VA Caregiver Support Line

Guidance and support for family caregivers.

VA Health Benefits

Enrolling in and questions about VA health care.

Rather have us handle it?

No phone tag, no hold music. Call our office and a real, VA-accredited person walks you through it - start to finish.

702-992-4883

Not sure where to start?

Ask the veteran's VA care team or Caregiver Support Coordinator to arrange respite care.

Get a free benefit review

Tell us how to reach you and an accredited team member will help you understand this benefit and claim everything you have earned. No cost, no obligation.

Your information is private and is used only to contact you about your benefits. We never sell your details. The initial review is free - representation, if you choose it later, follows VA fee rules.

Not sure if this applies to you?

Ask our free assistant a few plain questions and get an honest read on what you and your family may qualify for - at no cost.

Call 702-992-4883

Prefer to read first? Browse our free resources.