Who Qualifies
Qualifying Conditions and Equipment
Prosthetic limbs (arms, legs, hands, feet). Orthopedic braces (knee, ankle, back, wrist, elbow). Skin conditions treated with medication that stains or damages clothing (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis). Incontinence appliances or drainage devices. Any other VA-prescribed durable medical equipment that damages clothing. Even a 0% SC rating qualifies if the device or medication damages clothing.
How to Apply
VA Form 10-8678 — File Before August 1
Contact your VAMC Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS) and ask to file VA Form 10-8678 (Annual Clothing Allowance). The filing deadline is August 1 each year. Payment typically arrives by direct deposit in August/September. Some VAMCs automatically pay eligible veterans — call to confirm whether you've been receiving this payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive multiple clothing allowances?
Yes — if you have two or more separate SC conditions each independently damaging clothing, you may receive multiple annual payments. Each qualifying condition is documented separately with your VAMC Prosthetics representative.
Is the clothing allowance taxable?
No — the VA clothing allowance is a tax-free benefit payment exempt from federal and state income taxes.