VA Clothing Allowance: What You Need to Know

laura78999
Apr 2
2 min read

Don't leave money on the table! >>

Many people are feeling the financial strain of inflation, but for veterans on fixed incomes—especially those with disabilities that limit their ability to work—every financial resource counts. The VA Clothing Allowance can be a game-changer, providing annual financial assistance for clothing damaged by prosthetic devices or skin medications related to military service. The deadline for application submission is August 1st.

What Is the VA Clothing Allowance?

The VA Clothing Allowance is designed to help veterans replace clothing damaged by prosthetic devices or prescribed skin medications. This benefit is specifically for veterans with service-connected disabilities that require these medical items. It is not available to everyone, and eligibility is determined by specific criteria.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the VA Clothing Allowance, you must:

Have a service-connected disability recognized by the VA (not just an injury you believe is connected to service).
Require a prosthetic, orthopedic device, or skin medication prescribed for that disability.
Submit your application annually by August 1st to your local VA Prosthetics Department.

Qualifying Medications and Devices

Certain medical devices and medications may cause wear and tear on clothing, making veterans eligible for this benefit. Some qualifying items include:

Prosthetics & Orthopedic Devices: Knee braces, back braces, elbow and wrist braces, wheelchairs, orthopedic shoes, and prosthetic limbs.
Skin Medications: Treatments for eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis, including hydrocortisone creams and steroid-based ointments that may stain or damage clothing.

How to Apply

The application process is straightforward:

Complete VA Form 10-8678 (Application for Annual Clothing Allowance). This form can be downloaded here: https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-10-8678/#content
Provide your demographic information (name, Social Security number, mailing address, etc.).
List your qualifying medical items:
- Name of medication or prosthetic device.
- Service-connected disability it is prescribed for.
- Month and year it was prescribed.
Indicate the issuing facility: If prescribed by the VA, list the VA facility’s name and location. If from an outside provider, include their phone number for verification.
Describe the affected areas: Indicate where the prosthetic or medication causes damage (e.g., chest, back, legs).
Submit your completed form to your local VA Prosthetics Department by August 1st.

Payment Information

Annual Payment Amount: $1024.50 (as of December 2024, for the 2025 benefit year).
Payment Timeline: The VA issues payments between September 1st and October 31st.
Follow-up: If you submitted your application by August 1st and have not received payment by October 31st, contact your local VA Prosthetics Department.

Final Thoughts

The VA Clothing Allowance is a simple yet impactful benefit for veterans with service-connected disabilities. If you meet the eligibility requirements, make sure to submit your application on time each year.

For questions or concerns, drop a comment below or visit theveteran.coach. Stay safe, stay healthy, and we’ll see you next time!