VA Form 10-8678: Apply for Annual Clothing Allowance 2026

VA Form 10-8678: Apply for Annual Clothing Allowance 2026 – Veterans with service-connected disabilities that require prosthetics, orthopedic appliances, or certain skin medications often face extra clothing costs. VA Form 10-8678 helps eligible veterans apply for the Annual Clothing Allowance, a tax-free benefit that offsets damage to outer garments.

This comprehensive guide covers eligibility, the application process, deadlines, payment amounts, and tips for a successful claim in 2026 and beyond.

What Is VA Form 10-8678?

VA Form 10-8678 is the official Application for Annual Clothing Allowance. It allows veterans to request compensation for clothing damaged by service-connected prosthetics, braces, wheelchairs, or prescribed skin medications.

The form is revised as of January 2023 and available as a fillable PDF. It collects veteran information, details of qualifying devices or medications, and supporting certifications.

Download the official form here: VA Form 10-8678 PDF (opens in new tab).

Who Qualifies for the VA Clothing Allowance?

You may qualify if you meet these criteria (per official VA guidelines):

  • You have a service-connected disability (including 0% ratings or conditions under 38 U.S.C. §1151).
  • You use a prescribed prosthetic or orthopedic appliance (e.g., artificial limb, rigid brace, wheelchair) that causes wear or tear to clothing.
  • Or you use VA-prescribed skin medication for a service-connected condition that causes irreparable staining to outer garments.

Additional clothing allowances (more than one per year) are possible if you have multiple qualifying devices or medications affecting different articles of clothing (e.g., upper and lower body).

Clothing covered: Shirts, blouses, pants, skirts, shorts, and similar outer garments. Shoes, hats, underwear, socks, etc., are not included.

2026 VA Clothing Allowance Amount

For the 2026 benefit year, the annual clothing allowance is $1,053.19 per eligible item or combination. This amount is adjusted annually with cost-of-living increases.

Payments are typically issued between September 1 and October 31 for timely applications.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process?

  1. Download and Complete VA Form 10-8678 — Fill out sections 1–11 with your details, appliance/medication information, service-connected disabilities, issuance dates, and locations.
  2. Gather Supporting Information — A VA healthcare provider often verifies the devices or medications.
  3. Submit by the Deadline — Applications must be received by August 1 of the benefit year (e.g., August 1, 2026, for the 2026 allowance). Late submissions are generally considered for the following year.

Submission Options:

  • Local VA Medical Center: Mail or bring to the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS) at your nearest facility.
  • Mail: Use the address provided on VA resources or your local PSAS.
  • Secure Messaging: Via My HealtheVet (preferred for some facilities).
  • Other methods: Check AccessVA QuickSubmit or contact your local PSAS.

Find a VA medical center near you: VA Locations.

Official VA Clothing Allowance page: va.gov/disability/eligibility/special-claims/clothing-allowance/ (opens in new tab).

First-Time vs. Renewal Applications

  • First-time or adding new items: Submit a new VA Form 10-8678.
  • Renewals: If you received the allowance previously and your condition/devices haven’t changed, you may not need to reapply annually — confirm with your local PSAS. New or changed circumstances require a fresh application.

Common Questions About VA Form 10-8678

Is the clothing allowance taxable?
No — it is a tax-free benefit.

Can I get more than one allowance?
Yes, up to the limits based on qualifying items affecting different clothing types (e.g., upper and lower extremity).

What if I haven’t filed for disability compensation yet?
You may need to file VA Form 21-526 first and send it to the appropriate regional office.

How long does processing take?
Payments for approved claims are usually issued in September/October.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Submit early — before the August 1 deadline.
  • Be specific when listing appliances/medications and their impact on clothing.
  • Keep copies of all submissions and correspondence.
  • Contact your local Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service for assistance or verification.
  • Use only the current version of the form from VA.gov.

Additional Resources

This benefit provides important financial support for veterans dealing with service-related wear and tear on clothing. If you believe you qualify, download VA Form 10-8678 today and submit it promptly to your local VA Medical Center’s PSAS.

Information based on official VA sources as of 2026. Always verify the latest details on VA.gov, as rates and policies can change.