Benefits · Home Care
How to apply for Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) Program — Mecklenburg County
Centralina Area Agency on Aging (Charlotte), whose staff serve as VDC Options Counselors in partnership with Bay Aging for veterans connected to VA services in the greater Charlotte area. Centralina serves Anson, Cabarrus, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Stanly and Union counties.
Who it's for
Helps veterans of any age stay safely at home instead of in a long-term care facility. The veteran gets a monthly budget for long-term services and supports and can hire, schedule and supervise their own caregivers — family members, friends, or professional caregivers. Available to veterans enrolled in VA health care who meet the clinical criteria for long-term services and supports. To get started, talk to your social worker or primary care provider at your VA Medical Center; they confirm eligibility and start enrollment. Centralina Aging: 704-372-2416 or 1-800-508-5777.
Eligibility is decided at your VA Medical Center — you must be enrolled in VA health care and meet the VA's clinical criteria for long-term services and supports. Centralina's role is options counseling once the VA connects you to the program.
What you'll need
- Proof of veteran status
- VA medical center referral (consult) to Veteran-Directed Care
- Proof of Mecklenburg County residency
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 704-372-2416
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) Program — Mecklenburg 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 Mecklenburg 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)
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.