VA Form 10-0388-14: State Home Construction Grant Checklist – State governments seeking federal funding to build, acquire, expand, or renovate veterans’ homes must navigate a detailed application process. VA Form 10-0388-14, the Checklist of Major Requirements for State Home Construction/Acquisition Grants, serves as the official roadmap for this process.
This article provides a comprehensive, up-to-date overview based on official VA sources to help state officials, grant administrators, and veterans’ advocates understand the requirements, timelines, and best practices for securing these grants.
What Is VA Form 10-0388-14?
VA Form 10-0388-14 is a critical checklist used by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for the State Home Construction Grant Program. It outlines all major documentation, certifications, and deadlines required across three phases: Initial Application, Application Phase, and Post-Grant Award.
Form Revision: July 2013 (still the current version as of 2026).
Purpose: Helps VA track compliance and ensures projects meet federal standards for nursing homes, domiciliary care, and other state veterans’ facilities.
Download the Official Form Here:
Download VA Form 10-0388-14 PDF
Who Qualifies for State Home Construction/Acquisition Grants?
These grants assist states in constructing, acquiring, expanding, remodeling, or altering state-operated veterans’ homes. Eligible projects include:
- New construction of nursing homes or domiciliary facilities
- Bed replacements or expansions
- Renovations for life safety or adult day health care
- Acquisition of existing facilities
Grants support facilities providing domiciliary or nursing home care exclusively to veterans. States must demonstrate need, financial capability, and long-term viability.
Why This Grant Program Matters for Veterans?
The program addresses the growing demand for high-quality, veteran-specific long-term care. Successful projects provide accessible, state-of-the-art homes that honor veterans’ service while easing pressure on VA medical centers.
Section A: Initial Application Phase Requirements (Deadline: April 15)
States must submit a complete initial application by April 15 each year for consideration on the next fiscal year’s priority list. Key items on VA Form 10-0388-14 include:
- Standard Forms: SF 424, SF 424C, and SF 424D (with project description)
- Governor’s designation of authorized state official and contact person
- Needs assessment (referencing VA Form 10-0388-1)
- State Clearinghouse Comments (E.O. 12372)
- Schematics for the proposed project
- Signed initial application certification
- Documentation of reasonable occupancy projections
- Space program analysis (using VA Community Living Center Design Guide)
- Five-year capital plan for the state’s entire home program
- Financial plan for the facility’s first three years
- Certifications regarding bed numbers and compliance with 38 CFR 59.40
Tip: Submit via Grants.gov for new applications. Renovation/life safety projects have slightly streamlined initial requirements.
Section B: Full Application Phase Deadlines and Documents
After initial review, states advance by meeting these requirements:
Priority Group 1 Deadline (August 1)
- Updated SF forms (if budget revisions)
- Equipment cost estimates (≤10% of construction costs)
- State authorization/legislation for funding
- Certificate of State matching funds (VA Form 10-0388-6)
Additional Key Submissions
- Environmental Survey/Assessment (Phase I and possibly Phase II)
- Letter from State Historic Preservation Officer
- Design development drawings and specifications (35%)
Later requirements for conditional approval and final award include full compliance certifications (debarment, drug-free workplace, lobbying, Davis-Bacon Act), final drawings (100%), bid tabulations, and more.
Section C: Post-Grant Award Requirements
Before final payment, states must provide:
- Final grant program review
- Project photos (JPG) and complete equipment list
- Single Audit Act compliance (if applicable)
- Final Payment Request (SF 271)
- Signed Post-Grant Requirements Certification (VA Form 10-0388-13)
Step-by-Step Application Process Overview
- Prepare and submit initial application by April 15 via Grants.gov.
- Receive FAI number and proceed via MAX.gov or designated portals.
- Complete environmental, historical, and design reviews.
- Secure conditional approval with matching funds and certifications.
- Bid, construct, and submit final documentation for payment.
Detailed workshops and PowerPoints are available on the VA Geriatrics site.
Best Practices for a Successful Application
- Start early — coordinate across state agencies (budget, historical preservation, environmental).
- Align all budgets and justifications precisely.
- Use VA design guides and templates.
- Maintain clear communication with VA State Home Construction Grant Program staff.
- Document everything thoroughly for audits.
Common Questions About VA Form 10-0388-14 and State Home Grants
How competitive is the program?
Projects are prioritized based on need, readiness, and available federal funds.
Where can I find more resources?
Visit the official VA State Home Construction Grant Program page for checklists, workshops, and contacts.
Are there related forms?
Yes — VA Form 10-0388-1 (Initial Application Documents), 10-0388-5, 10-0388-6, and others referenced in the checklist.
Supporting Veterans Through Infrastructure
Understanding and properly completing VA Form 10-0388-14 is essential for states committed to expanding veterans’ care options. By following this checklist, states can successfully secure funding to build facilities that provide dignity, care, and community for America’s veterans.
For the most current guidance, always refer directly to VA.gov and contact the State Home Construction Grant Program.
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available VA resources as of 2026. Requirements may be updated; verify with official sources.