VA Form 10-0408: Fisher House Application & Download

VA Form 10-0408: Fisher House Application & Download – VA Form 10-0408 plays a key role in expanding support for Veterans and their families through the Fisher House program. This article explains the form, its purpose, eligibility for lodging, and how families can access this vital “home away from home” resource.

What Is VA Form 10-0408?

VA Form 10-0408, titled VHA Fisher House Application, is an official Veterans Health Administration (VHA) document used by VA medical facilities to apply for the establishment of a new Fisher House at or near their location.

Revised in September 2005, the form collects detailed information including:

  • Proposed site description and location relative to the facility
  • Workload data (unique Veterans served, inpatient admissions, outpatient visits)
  • Specialized services (e.g., surgery, transplants, cancer care) justifying the need
  • Commitments for funding site preparation, operations, utilities, maintenance, and staffing a full-time manager
  • Endorsements from Veterans Service Organizations, community leaders, and officials

Download the official form here: VA Form 10-0408 (PDF) Download PDF

This form supports proposals reviewed at the VISN and national level before potential approval and partnership with the Fisher House Foundation.

Understanding the Fisher House Program for Veterans and Families

Fisher Houses provide free, temporary lodging for families and caregivers of Veterans receiving care at VA medical centers. Located near VA facilities, they offer a supportive, home-like environment with private suites, kitchens, laundry facilities, and communal spaces.

Key benefits include:

  • No cost to guests
  • Proximity to the medical center (often walking distance)
  • Support for emotional well-being during treatment
  • Space for multiple family members (typically up to 4 per suite, subject to availability)

The program operates under 38 CFR Part 60 and is a collaboration between VA and the Fisher House Foundation.

Who Can Stay at a VA Fisher House? Eligibility Criteria?

Eligibility focuses on accompanying individuals (family or caregivers) of Veterans undergoing an episode of care. In limited cases, the Veteran may also stay if accompanied.

Common requirements (may vary slightly by location):

  • The Veteran is receiving care at the associated VA facility or VA-authorized community care
  • Travelers live at least 50 miles or a 2-hour commute from the facility (exceptions possible for exceptional circumstances)
  • Guests must be medically stable and able to self-care or have appropriate support (no medical staffing at the house)
  • Actively engaged in supporting the Veteran’s treatment
  • Not for long-term/transitional housing or unaccompanied Veterans in most cases

Priority may go to cases involving critical injury, organ donation, or imminent death. Stays are on a space-available, first-come, first-served basis.

How to Apply for Fisher House Lodging (Not VA Form 10-0408)?

Note: Individual families do not use VA Form 10-0408 to request a stay. That form is for facility applications to build new houses.

Steps for families:

  1. Contact the Veteran’s VA health care team (provider, social worker, case manager, or nurse) coordinating care.
  2. Request a referral/consult in the VA’s electronic health record system (CPRS/EHR).
  3. The Fisher House Manager reviews eligibility and availability.
  4. If approved, receive confirmation and house guidelines.

Contact the specific Fisher House directly for questions (e.g., Detroit VA Fisher House: [email protected] or 313-349-7300).

Referrals do not guarantee a room—availability is key.

Benefits of Fisher House Stays

  • Cost Savings: Families avoid expensive hotel stays, with significant estimated savings (e.g., hundreds of thousands across programs).
  • Emotional Support: Being close to loved ones reduces stress during medical treatment.
  • Convenience: Amenities like full kitchens, Wi-Fi, and laundry help families focus on healing.
  • Community: Shared spaces foster connections with other military and Veteran families.

Finding a VA Fisher House Near You

Search for Fisher Houses at major VA medical centers. Examples include Detroit and Lovell Federal Health Care. Check the Fisher House Foundation website or contact your local VA facility for the nearest location and manager contact.

Other Temporary Lodging Options

If Fisher House space is unavailable, VA may offer:

  • Hotel/motel vouchers (when locally funded)
  • Other VA facility lodging (non-utilized beds, when appropriate)

Social workers can assist with alternatives if a request is denied.

Supporting New Fisher Houses with VA Form 10-0408

VA facilities use the form to justify and propose new houses based on patient volume, specialized services, travel distances, and local support. Strong applications include endorsements and site commitments. Approved proposals advance to Fisher House Foundation collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a charge to stay?
No—lodging is provided at no cost to eligible guests.

Can Veterans stay alone?
Generally no—Fisher Houses prioritize accompanying family/caregivers. Limited exceptions exist.

How long can families stay?
Duration ties to the Veteran’s episode of care and space availability; no fixed general limit, but reviewed ongoing.

What if my request is denied?
VA considers other temporary lodging options and may refer to social work for additional support.

For the most current information, visit official VA resources or contact your local facility, as policies and availability can evolve.

Official Resources:

This resource helps Veterans, families, and VA staff navigate support options effectively. Always verify details with your local VA for personalized guidance.