Q.  I am a survivor/primary caregiver. Do I qualify for VIP?

A. You might if you can answer "yes" to each of the following:

• I am the survivor/primary caregiver of a qualified VAC client who was getting VIP housekeeping and/or grounds maintenance services at the time he or she passed away.
• I cannot keep my home and/or yard clean and tidy because of health reasons.
• I live in Canada and services are not available to me through a provincial or local program.
• I do not live with someone who is able to do the housekeeping or yard work.

Q.  How do I apply for VIP?

A. You do not need to apply if you are currently receiving VIP services. Your services will automatically continue for as long as you need them. You can call 1-866-522-2122 if you are:

• a survivor of a qualified VAC client and you do not receive VIP services now but you think you may qualify; or
• a primary caregiver who wants to apply for VIP services.

Q. If I qualify for VIP, when will VAC start paying for my housekeeping and/or grounds maintenance services?

A. December 3, 2003 is the earliest date the Department can begin to pay for the cost of VIP services that have been approved for you. This is the date the regulation was approved. To be reimbursed for your expenses, you will need to provide us with your bills and receipts for housekeeping and/or yard work services.

Q.  My husband now gets VIP but he soon may need to go into a long-term care facility. Do I still qualify for VIP?

A. If your husband is admitted to a long-term care facility, the VIP services that your husband had been receiving at home would be discontinued. If your husband passes away within one year of moving into the facility, you may qualify to receive the services that were in place before he entered the facility, provided you need the services for health reasons. If your husband is in the long-term care facility for more than a year before he passes away, the VIP services cannot be restored to you.

Q.  I am a survivor who gets VIP housekeeping and/or grounds maintenance services. Do I qualify for other health benefits?

A. No. Our Department can only offer health benefits to qualified veterans and certain civilians, however, we may be able to help you find services in your community that can help you.