Veterans Independence Program (VIP)
It's okay if you're not sure what applies to your situation yet.
- Housekeeping.
- Grounds maintenance, including snow removal where approved.
- Personal care.
What is this?
Describe tasks and consequences, not only 'needs help.'
Why someone might look at this benefit
A health condition makes housekeeping, grounds maintenance or personal care difficult.
You need practical support to remain safely at home.
You are a survivor or primary caregiver trying to understand continuation rules.
Your needs or living arrangement changed.
You were approved but the service level no longer reflects current needs.
Who might qualify?
Only the responsible organization can determine eligibility.
What this benefit may help with
Typical process
Apply through VAC and identify specific tasks that cannot be done safely or reliably.
If you receive a decision
Approved service elements are individualized and may coordinate with provincial programs.
- • Entitlement — whether the condition is related to service
- • Assessment — the severity or percentage rating
- • Effective date — when the benefit starts
- • Calculation — how the amount was determined
- • Approved services — what is covered and for how long
- • Frequency or dollar limit — caps on treatment or services
- • Reasons for denial — the specific basis for the decision
Every situation is different. Timelines vary based on the organization, the complexity of the application, and the volume of requests being processed.
What usually happens next
Application received
The organization typically sends a confirmation that your application was received.
Information requests
They may ask for additional medical, service, or financial records to support your application.
Review
A decision maker reviews your application, the evidence provided, and the applicable program rules.
Decision
You receive a written decision explaining the outcome, the reasons, and any review rights.
If approved
Benefits begin according to the program rules and the effective date stated in the decision.
If not approved
The decision letter explains why and describes your review or appeal options, including any deadlines.
Reassessment
If your condition or circumstances change, you may request a reassessment of the decision.
Reviews and appeals
Depending on the issue, you may request a departmental review or a hearing before the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.
Every situation is different. Timelines vary and are not guaranteed.
Evidence that may help
Functional assessment
task examples
safety consequences
current supports
costs.
Not every document is required for every application. This list is for general awareness only.
You may also want to explore
Treatment Benefits
VAC Treatment Benefits provide eligible Veterans with coverage for authorized health-care products and services.
Caregiver Recognition Benefit
A related program that may be worth exploring.
Long-term Care
A related program that may be worth exploring.
Home adaptations
A related program that may be worth exploring.
Veterans Emergency Fund
A related program that may be worth exploring.
Helpful VANCA tools
Official sources
VAC
Veterans Affairs Canada is the primary decision-maker for this program. Check their official page for the most current eligibility rules, application forms, and processing times.
Program rules may change. The official department, tribunal, insurer, or benefit provider makes eligibility and payment decisions. VANCA provides information only — not decisions.
Before you apply
- I understand what this benefit is.
- I know what evidence I already have.
- I understand who makes the decision.
- I know my next step.
- I know where to ask questions if I become stuck.
Last reviewed
2026-07-18
Next scheduled review
2026-10-15
Official source verified
2026-07-18