How Do Veterans Qualify For VA Clothing Allowances?

Many individuals who have served in the military will return with physical disabilities that require them to use special medicine or equipment. While these resources help affected veterans lead more satisfying lives, The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) understands the damage they can cause to someone’s clothing. For this reason, they have established the VA Clothing Allowance, a yearly financial benefit to help veterans afford new clothes when they need it. So, how do you qualify for this program? Learn more about the VA’s eligibility criteria, the application process, and how you can potentially benefit.

How Do Clothing Allowances Work?

The VA Clothing Allowance is an annual benefit for veterans to compensate them for the damage that specific medical devices and prosthetics can do to their clothing. This allowance is typically paid out once a year or can also be a one-time payment, depending on the circumstances.

The exact amount varies each year depending on the cost-of-living adjustment. As of 2023, the maximum stipend you can receive is $968.52 per year. However, not all clothing is considered the same from the VA’s perspective. Only certain clothing items fall under the allowance, including shirts, pants, shorts, skirts, blouses, and other similar articles that the veteran’s medical equipment would regularly damage.

Who Is Eligible For Clothing Allowances?

To qualify for the VA Clothing Allowance, a veteran needs to have a service-connected disability that requires using a prosthetic orthopedic device, such as a wheelchair, crutches, or prosthetics. You could also qualify if they’re taking a skin medication that causes irreparable damage to your outer clothes. In either situation, the devices or drugs you use must have been prescribed by a VA healthcare provider.

Is The VA Clothing Allowance Retroactive?

Unlike other disability benefits, the VA Clothing Allowance is not typically retroactive. You need to apply each year to receive the annual allowance, and applicants need to submit everything before August 1. If you submit a request and it’s accepted by the VA, you’ll receive your payment between September 1 and October 31.

How Veterans Can Apply For A Clothing Allowance

Applying for a VA Clothing Allowance is a straightforward process. Along with your disability claim, you will need to complete and submit VA Form 10-8678 either in person at your local VA medical center or by mail. On the form, you’ll need to list every device or medication that causes damage to your clothing. Additionally, a VA healthcare provider must verify every device or medication on your application for it to be approved.

Speak To One Of Our Disability Attorneys

Understanding which VA benefits you’re eligible for and how to apply can be challenging, especially when you’re trying to do everything alone. Our New York veterans’ disability lawyers can help you navigate your application process and receive all the benefits you deserve. If you need help applying for the VA Clothing Allowance or have any questions, please call us at 855-905-4452 or contact us online today to schedule a free case review.