Thailand resident instructions
Check additional compensation when a spouse needs personal care
Practical guide
At a glance
A veteran receiving disability compensation may qualify for additional compensation when an eligible spouse needs regular aid and attendance.
- If you receive VA disability compensation and your spouse needs regular personal assistance, check the dependent-spouse aid-and-attendance route rather than assuming only the veteran can have a relevant claim.
- The current VA Form 21-686c instructions identify Form 21-2680 for a spouse who needs aid and attendance, or Form 21-0779 if the spouse resides in a nursing home. Obtain the current form and have the required medical examination information completed.
- The instructions say to add Form 21-686c as well if you have never received additional benefits for that spouse. Submit the supporting records through the form's current VA submission route and retain confirmation.
Check before acting
This is a possible additional-compensation claim, not a guaranteed caregiver wage, reimbursement of every Thai care expense, or automatic admission to the VA caregiver program. VA must determine the rating, dependency and medical requirements. Do not confuse it with means-tested Veterans Pension aid and attendance.
Official forms and instructions
Documents checklist
Official sources for this guide
Reviewed 25 October 2026. Follow the linked agency's current instructions; rules and forms may change.
Confirm your circumstances
Agency determinations and current instructions control. This independent guide provides educational information and cannot decide eligibility or individual legal, medical or tax questions.