VA pension with Aid and Attendance
Aid and Attendance raises the VA pension for people who need help with daily activities. For December 1, 2025 through November 30, 2026 the maximum annual pension rate with Aid and Attendance is $29,093 for a veteran with no dependents and $18,697 for a surviving spouse with no dependents. The payment is reduced by your countable income, and the net worth limit is $163,699. VA updates these figures each December.
Official source: Veterans Pension rates (VA) · Survivors Pension rates (VA)
Veterans Homes of California
CalVet runs Veterans Homes in Barstow, Chula Vista, Fresno, Lancaster, Redding, Ventura, West Los Angeles and Yountville. CalVet states that no veteran will be denied admission due to a lack of income. Veterans who have income pay a share of it as member fees: 47.5 percent for residential care, 55 percent for residential care for the elderly or assisted living, 65 percent for intermediate care and 70 percent for skilled nursing care. See CalVet for eligibility and how to apply.
Official source: Veterans Homes fees (CalVet)
Free counseling
HICAP gives free, confidential one-on-one counseling about Medicare and long-term care insurance: 1-800-434-0222. The California Aging and Adult Information Line connects you with your local Area Agency on Aging: 1-800-510-2020.
Official source: HICAP
Rules and amounts change. This page is general information, not advice about your case. Confirm with the agency before you decide. Checked against the official pages on Nov 10, 2026.
More help paying
Paying for assisted living in California with SSI or Medi-Cal
What SSI/SSP pays in a licensed care home in 2026, how Medi-Cal's Assisted Living Waiver works and where it is offered, and who can join PACE.
Medi-Cal and nursing home costs in California: 2026 rules
Medi-Cal can pay for long-term nursing home care for people who qualify. Since January 1, 2026 it counts assets again: the limit, what is not counted and the look-back on gifts.
Affordable senior housing in California: HUD and nonprofits
Low-rent apartments for older adults: HUD Section 202 buildings, Housing Choice Vouchers and nonprofit housing organizations. Also paid help at home through IHSS.