Housebound is an add-on benefit paid in addition to monthly pension. This benefit may not be paid without first having eligibility for monthly pension. To begin an assessment of your eligibility, click here. A Veteran or Surviving Spouse may be eligible for Housebound when:
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- The Veteran or Surviving Spouse has a single permanent disability evaluated as 100-percent disabling AND, due to such disability, they are permanently and substantially confined to their immediate premises, or if institutionalized, to the ward or clinical area and it is reasonably certain that the disability or disabilities and resultant confinement will continue throughout their lifetime, OR,
- The Veteran or Surviving Spouse has a single permanent disability evaluated as 100-percent disabling AND, another disability, or disabilities, evaluated as 60 percent or more disabling.
For example, a person who cannot leave their immediate premises unless under the supervision of another person is Housebound.
NOTE: If a Claimant’s Spouse meets the qualifications of Housebound, that need may also assist a Veteran in qualifying for the Improved Pension Benefit. Neither a Veteran nor a Surviving Spouse can receive both Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits at the same time.
When applying for the Housebound add-on benefit, you should include copies of any evidence, preferably a report from an attending physician validating the need for Housebound type care. You may obtain the necessary form at http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-21-2680-ARE.pdf
- The report should be in sufficient detail to determine if it is necessary for the Veteran or Surviving Spouse to be confined to the home or immediate premises.
- The report should indicate how well the individual gets around, where the individual goes, and what they are able to do during a typical day.