Benefits · Home Care

How to apply for Veteran Directed Care (VDC) — Sangamon County

AgeLinc (Area Agency on Aging for Lincolnland, Springfield), in partnership with the Illiana-Danville VA Medical Center. AgeLinc serves 12 central Illinois counties: Cass, Christian, Greene, Jersey, Logan, Macoupin, Mason, Menard, Montgomery, Morgan, Sangamon and Scott.

Who it's for

A more flexible alternative to traditional in-home services for veterans: the VA funds a budget and the veteran selects and manages their own caregivers, including hiring a family member or friend to help with daily living activities. There is no cost to the veteran and no income or age requirement. To enroll, ask your VA primary care provider to put in a consult for Veteran Directed Care; an AgeLinc Veterans Specialist then calls to walk you through the process. Questions: (217) 787-9234 or toll-free (800) 252-2918.

You must be enrolled in VA health care and your VA primary care provider must place the VDC consult — the VA decides who qualifies for long-term services and supports. AgeLinc runs the program for the Illiana-Danville VA's service area; call (800) 252-2918 to confirm your county is covered before asking for the consult.

What you'll need

  • Proof of veteran status
  • VA medical center referral (consult) to Veteran-Directed Care
  • Proof of Sangamon County residency

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 1-800-252-2918

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Veteran Directed Care (VDC) — Sangamon County. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of veteran status, vA medical center referral (consult) to Veteran-Directed Care, proof of Sangamon County residency — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

annual budget approval (VA-approved spending plan)

Official source →Last verified · September 12, 2026

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.