VA Form 10-10CG: Apply for Family Caregiver Benefits – The VA Form 10-10CG is the official application for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC). This program provides vital support, training, stipends, and resources to family members caring for eligible Veterans with serious service-related injuries or illnesses.
If you are a Veteran needing care or a family caregiver seeking benefits, understanding this form is essential. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, benefits, and more using the latest official VA information (as of 2026).
What Is VA Form 10-10CG?
VA Form 10-10CG, titled Application for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, is a required joint application completed by the Veteran (or their representative) and the proposed family caregiver(s).
The form collects personal, contact, and relationship information to help the VA determine eligibility for PCAFC. A Veteran can designate one Primary Family Caregiver and up to two Secondary Family Caregivers. A new form is needed each time a new caregiver is appointed.
Download the official form here:
Download VA Form 10-10CG PDF (Revised May 2024).
You can also apply online through the VA’s secure portal for faster processing.
Who Is Eligible for the PCAFC Program?
Eligibility is strict and based on both the Veteran and caregiver criteria.
Veteran Eligibility Requirements
- The Veteran must be enrolled in VA health care (or a qualifying service member with a medical discharge date).
- A single or combined service-connected disability rating of 70% or higher.
- Need for at least 6 continuous months of in-person personal care services due to:
- Inability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs).
- Need for supervision or protection due to neurological impairment or injury.
- Need for regular instruction or supervision to function safely in daily life.
The program supports Veterans from all service eras, with expansions covering pre- and post-9/11 periods.
Family Caregiver Eligibility
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must be a family member (spouse, parent, son, daughter, step-family, or extended family) or a non-family member willing to live full-time with the Veteran.
- Able and willing to provide personal care services.
Benefits of the Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers Program
Approved Primary and Secondary Family Caregivers receive comprehensive support, including:
- Monthly Caregiver Stipend (tax-free payment based on the Veteran’s needs and geographic location).
- Comprehensive caregiver training and education.
- Respite care to provide breaks from caregiving duties.
- Mental health services and counseling.
- Access to health care (for Primary Caregivers under certain conditions).
- Travel, lodging, and mileage reimbursement when accompanying the Veteran to VA appointments.
- Ongoing support from local Caregiver Support Coordinators.
These benefits recognize the critical role family caregivers play and help reduce the burden of long-term care.
How to Apply Using VA Form 10-10CG: Step-by-Step?
- Check Eligibility — Review requirements on the official VA site before applying.
- Gather Information — Veteran and caregiver(s) details: names, SSNs/TINs, addresses, VA medical center, relationship, etc.
- Complete the Form — Fill out all required fields accurately. Sign and date all sections.
- Submit the Application (choose one):
- Online (recommended, fastest): Apply via the VA portal.
- By Mail: Send to 10-10CG Evidence Intake Center, PO Box 5154, Janesville, WI 53547-5154.
- In Person: Bring to your local VA medical center’s Caregiver Support Team.
Do not send medical records with the initial application—VA will request them if needed.
Call the Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274 for help completing the form.
What Happens After Submitting VA Form 10-10CG?
After submission:
- A Caregiver Support Program (CSP) staff member contacts you.
- VA reviews eligibility, which may include a clinical assessment.
- If approved, you receive benefits and ongoing support.
- Processing typically aims for completion within 90 days, though times vary.
You can check status by contacting the Caregiver Support Line.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Complete every required field (*) to avoid delays or denial.
- Use legal names as on official documents.
- Provide accurate contact information.
- Consider applying online for quicker processing and guidance.
- Keep copies of everything submitted.
- Contact a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) for free assistance if needed.
Common Questions About VA Form 10-10CG
Can I apply if the Veteran isn’t enrolled in VA health care?
The Veteran should submit VA Form 10-10EZ alongside the 10-10CG if not yet enrolled.
Are there other caregiver support options?
Yes. Veterans or caregivers who don’t qualify for PCAFC may still access the Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS) or other VA resources.
Is the form available in other languages?
Yes—English, Spanish, and Tagalog versions are available on va.gov.
Get Help and Apply Today
Family caregiving for Veterans is challenging but rewarding. The PCAFC program through VA Form 10-10CG offers meaningful support to make it sustainable.
Start your application now:
Download VA Form 10-10CG PDF
For the latest details and online application: Visit the official VA Caregiver Support pages.
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on official VA sources. Always verify the most current information directly on va.gov, as program rules can change.