Veterans Independence Program

About this program

The Veterans Independence Program provides annual tax-free funding for services such as grounds maintenance, housekeeping, meal preparation, personal care, and professional health and support services.

This program does not replace other federal, provincial or municipal programs. Instead, it is intended to work with those programs to help meet your needs.

Note: If you think you may have a need for these services, be sure to complete the Veterans Independence Program application at the same time as your Pain and Suffering Compensation application. If approved, this will allow you to access support at the earliest possible date.

Do you qualify?

You should apply for the Veterans Independence Program if you need home care services and you:

• have qualified for a disability benefit, or
• have qualified for the War Veterans Allowance, or
• receive Prisoner of War Compensation, or
• are eligible for, but can’t access, a Contract Bed (also known as a Priority Access Bed) in a long term care facility.

How to apply

Apply online

Apply online through My VAC Account. Applying is easier with a guided form. Sign in or register for My VAC Account.

Mail or in person

Download the application form. Then, drop it off at a VAC office or at any Service Canada office. You can also mail your completed form directly to the address listed on the form.

Get help with your application

The staff at any VAC office can assist you, or call us at 1-866-522-2122.

Additional information

Find out more

Services covered by VIP funding include:

• Grounds maintenance (can include snow removal, lawn mowing, etc.)
• Housekeeping (can include assistance with cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, errands, etc.)
• Access to nutrition (e.g. meal delivery services)
• Professional healthcare and support (nursing services, occupational therapy, assessments, etc.)
• Personal care
• Ambulatory healthcare (assessments, diagnostics, activities and transportation to these services)
• Transportation (transportation to social or community activities)
• Long term care
• Home adaptations (contribution towards modifications to the Veteran’s principal residence that are necessary for the Veteran to carry out everyday activities).

See the current rates for this program

Healthcare service providers - Learn more about providing VIP services and how to become a registered provider.

Related programs

Disability Benefit: Compensation to recognize that your injury or illness is a result of your military service.

War Veterans Allowance: Monthly payments if you have a low household income.

Prisoner of War Compensation: Monthly compensation if you were taken prisoner or detained by enemy forces.

Attendance Allowance: Monthly payments if your health needs require personal care support.

Veterans Independence Program for survivors: As a surviving spouse, you may qualify for help to remain independent in your home.

Veterans Independence Program for primary caregiver: You may qualify for help to remain independent in your home.

Guided support – Sometimes life situations can be challenging. When the challenge is too much to handle independently, Guided Support services can help you and your family.

Frequently asked questions

What is the fastest way to apply for VIP services?

The fastest way to apply is by using My VAC Account.

I am currently living outside of Canada, can I still receive my VIP benefits?

Unfortunately, Veterans Independence Program payments can only be provided to you when you are residing in Canada.

Can I choose any provider of services?

You may obtain services from the provider of your choice.

How is my housekeeping/grounds maintenance grant calculated?

The housekeeping and grounds maintenance grants are calculated based on your level of need and the going rate for these services in your area, up to allowable maximum amount. These rates are determined by a review of costs for these services across the country, including the labour market index. This national rate table shows the going rates payable by geographic area.

What is a “Benefit Year”? Do my benefits have an end date?

We create one-year arrangements for VIP benefits, however this does not mean that your benefits will stop after one year. Your benefits will continue for as long as you need them. The one-year arrangement is a mechanism we use to help manage your support. However, if your health needs or other circumstances change at any time, please contact us.

Are there policies for this program?

Read the Veterans Independence Program policies.