Veterans Center for Independent Living

The Veterans Administration's VDC Program is a federal partnership between the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and the Administration for Community Living (ACL). The VDC Program offers eligible Veterans a self-directed option to enhance long term services and supports in their homes. Eligible Veterans are approved for flexible annual budget that can be used to purchase personal care assistance and specific goods/services that help them avoid institutionalization.

The VHA administers this program through community partnerships with Independent Living Centers and Aging and Disability Network Agencies. These partner agencies contract with a Financial Management Service Agency (FMS) who manages the Veteran’s annual budget. The FMS pays employees directly, manages IRS paperwork, and files taxes. The budget is not paid directly to the Veteran.

The Veteran or their appointed authorized representative are the employers for the program. This means they manage the annual budget within program guidelines, hire and fire employees, determine employee wages and schedules, train employees, review and approve employee timesheets, have regular contact with the partner agency and additional duties. VDC annual budget usage must be approved by VHA VDC Program staff.

The goal of the Veteran Directed care Program is to prevent nursing home placement.

95% of veterans use program funds to purchase personal care assistance from a family member, friend, neighbor, or another individual.

Veterans in VDC program have fewer hospitalizations and are less likely to move into a nursing home than those enrolled in other VA Home & Community Programs

Veteran Directed Care Program has 99% satisfaction rating from enrolled Veterans and their family members.

97% of Veterans in VDC Program feel their quality of life has been enhanced with the support of the program.