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For the Caregivers of Veterans: Extension of Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers Eligibility
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For the Caregivers of Veterans: Extension of Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers Eligibility

U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO)

November 28, 2025


The Government Accountability Office (GAO) today issued the following legal decisions and opinions of the Comptroller General:

Congressional Review Act:

B-337877, Department of Veterans Affairs: Extension of Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers Eligibility for Legacy Participants and Legacy Applicants, November 26, 2025
https://www.gao.gov/products/B-337877

GAO reviewed the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) new rule entitled "Extension of Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers Eligibility for Legacy Participants and Legacy Applicants." GAO found that the final rule amended its regulations governing the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) and extended the transition period for legacy participants, legacy applicants, and their Family Caregivers (the legacy cohort).

Enclosed is our assessment of VA's compliance with the procedural steps required by section 801(a)(1)(B)(i) through (iv) of title 5 with respect to the rule. If you have any questions about this report or wish to contact GAO officials responsible for the evaluation work relating to the subject matter of the rule, please contact Will Shakely, Acting Assistant General Counsel, at (202) 512-3363.


B-337858, Environmental Protection Agency: Water Quality Standards to Protect Aquatic Life in the Delaware River, November 26, 2025
https://www.gao.gov/products/B-337858

GAO reviewed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) new rule entitled "Water Quality Standards to Protect Aquatic Life in the Delaware River." GAO found that the final rule finalizes revised water quality standards largely as proposed for certain water quality management zones of the mainstem Delaware River under the Clean Water Act.

Enclosed is our assessment of EPA's compliance with the procedural steps required by section 801(a)(1)(B)(i) through (iv) of title 5 with respect to the rule. If you have any questions about this report or wish to contact GAO officials responsible for the evaluation work relating to the subject matter of the rule, please contact Will Shakely, Acting Assistant General Counsel, at (202) 512-3363.

The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) is a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) program that provides financial, medical, and support benefits to eligible family caregivers of seriously injured veterans. It recognizes the critical role caregivers play in veterans’ recovery and long-term health.

 

???? Key Features of PCAFC

  • Monthly Stipend: Caregivers receive a tax-free payment based on the veteran’s level of need.

  • Health Insurance: Eligible caregivers without other coverage may qualify for health insurance through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA).

  • Training & Support: Caregivers get access to training, counseling, and respite care services.

  • Travel & Lodging Assistance: Coverage for travel expenses when accompanying veterans to medical appointments.

  • Priority Access: Caregivers may receive priority scheduling for VA medical appointments.

 

???? Eligibility

To qualify, both the veteran and the caregiver must meet requirements:

  • Veteran: Must have a serious injury or illness incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, and require personal care services.

  • Caregiver: Must be at least 18 years old and either a spouse, child, parent, or extended family member (or someone who lives with the veteran full-time).

 

???? Recent Updates

  • The VA recently extended eligibility for legacy participants and applicants (those enrolled before October 1, 2020) through September 30, 2028, ensuring they continue to receive stipends and benefits without reassessment during this transition period.

  • This extension was formalized under RIN: 2900-AR28, a major VA rule reviewed by the GAO.

 

⚖️ Why It Matters

  • PCAFC provides financial stability for families caring for veterans.

  • It ensures continuity of care for veterans with serious injuries.

  • It acknowledges caregivers as essential partners in the VA healthcare system.

 

In short: PCAFC is the VA’s flagship caregiver support program, offering stipends, health coverage, training, and extended benefits to family members who provide daily care for seriously injured veterans.

Sources:
VA.gov:
Family Caregiver Assistance Program
GAO Report on PCAFC Extension;
VA Caregiver Support Program;
Military Times coverage;
GAO PDF Report

 

 

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