Veterans who have disabilities related to their military service often deal with extra challenges in everyday life.
Some medical devices and treatments, such as prosthetic limbs, braces, or special creams for skin problems, can cause clothing to wear out, get stained, or get damaged.
To help with the cost of replacing these clothes, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers an annual benefit called the VA Clothing Allowance.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for the VA Clothing Allowance if:
- You use a prosthetic or orthopedic device, like a brace or artificial limb, that damages your clothing.
- You use topical medicines for a service-connected skin condition, and these medicines stain or ruin your clothes.
To get this benefit, your device or medication must be for a condition that is officially connected to your military service and rated by the VA.
How Much Is the Allowance?
The amount paid for the clothing allowance in 2025 is set by the VA and changes each year based on inflation and cost of living.
You can usually only get one payment per year, but if you use several qualifying devices or medications that damage more than one type of clothing, you might get more than one payment.
How To Apply
The clothing allowance is not automatically given to veterans. You have to apply for it every year, even if you have received it in the past. The deadline to send your application is August 1 each year.
To apply:
- Fill out VA Form 10-8678, called “Application for Annual Clothing Allowance.”
- Submit the form to the prosthetic department at your local VA medical center.
- If you need help, you can contact the prosthetic department for assistance or ask your local VA representative for advice.
If you are unsure whether you qualify, talk to your local VA representative for guidance.
Why Is This Benefit Important?
The VA Clothing Allowance helps cover the extra costs of clothing that get worn out or damaged because of service-connected disabilities. These hidden costs can be a burden, especially for veterans who are on fixed incomes.
By offering this allowance, the VA is supporting veterans not only with medical care but also with the day-to-day challenges that come with living with a disability.
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