How to apply for Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) — Summit County in Ohio

Who it's for

Self-directed home care for veterans who need help with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing or fixing meals. The VA approves a budget, and the veteran decides what services and goods to buy, who provides them, and when. The veteran can hire their own workers, including family members or neighbors. A Direction Home care manager helps build a spending plan, and a financial management company (Acumen) pays the workers. VA eligibility is set up through the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center. To start, call the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 877-770-5558 or email vdcinfo@dhad.org.

What you'll need

• Proof of veteran status
• VA health care enrollment (eligibility is set up through the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center)
• Proof of Summit County residency

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) — Summit 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 health care enrollment (eligibility is set up through the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center), proof of Summit 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)