What is a veterans home in Washington DC?
Washington DC veterans have several long-term care options. The Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) at 3700 N Capitol Street NW is the only federal retirement community in DC for eligible enlisted veterans. VA Community Living Centers at the Washington DC VA Medical Center provide nursing home care. Medical Foster Homes and VA financial assistance programs help veterans live independently.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Facility | Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) |
| Address | 3700 N Capitol St NW, Washington, DC 20011 |
| Phone | (800) 422-9988 |
| Eligibility | Enlisted veterans (50%+ non-commissioned service); 20+ years or service-connected disability |
| Application | Request form at afrh.gov/apply/request-form |
| Processing Time | Varies; admission review board determines |
| Official Agency | AFRH (independent federal agency) / VA |
| Required Forms | DD-214, insurance cards, military ID, VA benefit letter |
| Updated For | 2026 AFRH admissions and VA long-term care programs |
Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH): Washington DC Campus
The Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) is an independent federal agency that provides residences and related services for certain retired and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Established in 1851, it is the oldest veterans retirement home in the United States and is located on 272 acres in Northwest Washington, DC.
The AFRH mission dates back to 1811, when the young nation made a promise to offer retired and disabled veterans the care and security they earned through service. Today, that promise continues through two campuses: Washington, DC, and Gulfport, Mississippi.
AFRH Services and Amenities
Residents enjoy a wide range of services and amenities, including:
Three daily meals in a central dining facility
Recreational programs and organized trips
Entertainment and wellness activities
On-site medical care including outpatient dental and medical services
Hospital and long-term nursing care on campus
Private rooms and apartments
Extensive recreational facilities — state-of-the-art gym, artists’ studios, swimming pool, and woodworking shop
A supportive, caring community of fellow veterans
AFRH Eligibility: Who Qualifies?
AFRH admission is generally limited to individuals who spent more than half of their military career serving as an enlisted member, warrant officer, or limited-duty officer. Those who served most of their careers as commissioned officers are not eligible for residency.
Primary Eligibility Requirements
Service members may be eligible to become residents of AFRH if they served as members of the Armed Forces and at least one-half of their service was not commissioned service (other than as a warrant officer or limited-duty officer).
Five Eligibility Criteria
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityApplicants must also meet at least one of these five criteria:
Retired with 20+ years — Eligible for retired pay and discharged or released under honorable conditions after 20 or more years of active service
Service-connected disability — Determined incapable of earning a livelihood because of a service-connected disability incurred in the line of duty
Wartime service with disability — Served in a war theater during a time of war declared by Congress or were eligible for hostile fire special pay; discharged under honorable conditions; and determined incapable of earning a livelihood because of injuries, disease, or disability
Women’s component service — Female service members who served in a women’s component of the Armed Forces before June 12, 1948, and determined eligible for admission because of compelling personal circumstances
Additional criteria — As established by the AFRH Chief Operating Officer on the FAQ page
Who Is Ineligible?
The following individuals are not eligible for AFRH residency:
A person convicted of a felony
A person not free of drug, alcohol, or psychiatric problems
Commissioned officers who served most of their careers as officers (other than warrant officers or limited-duty officers)
Spouse Eligibility
Spouses may also be eligible to live at the AFRH alongside a qualified veteran. Eligible service members and their spouses can apply for residency as a couple, provided the spouse meets separate eligibility requirements. Spouses must pay a minimum fee that varies based on the level of care needed and must share an apartment with their veteran sponsor for as long as both individuals are able to live independently.
Independence Requirement
At the time of admission, applicants must be able to live independently. They must be able to take care of their own personal needs, attend a central dining facility for meals, and keep all medical appointments. If increased health care is needed after being admitted, assisted living and long-term care are available at both campuses.
How to Apply to the Armed Forces Retirement Home
The AFRH application process involves submitting several forms and comprehensive financial documentation. Here is the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Request an Application
Visit afrh.gov/apply/request-form to request an application packet. You can also call (800) 422-9988 for assistance.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
The application requires the following documents:
Copy of final DD-214
Insurance ID cards
Military ID (Retiree/Beneficiary)
VA Benefit Letter
Step 3: Complete Application Forms
Submit all required application forms and comprehensive financial documentation. A pre-admissions checklist is provided in the packet.
Step 4: Medical and Admissions Review
Applicants must be approved by both medical and admissions review boards.
Step 5: Admission Decision
Once approved, applicants are admitted based on the AFRH Prioritization Plan when maximum capacity has been achieved. The plan ensures the most deserving approved applicant is accepted whenever the number of eligible applicants exceeds available capacity.
Contact Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Phone | (800) 422-9988 |
| Resident Phone | 1-202-541-7501 |
| admissions@afrh.gov | |
| Address | 3700 N Capitol St NW, Washington, DC 20011 |
| Driving Address | 140 Rock Creek Church Rd NW, Washington, DC 20011 |
AFRH Costs: What Do Residents Pay?
AFRH is known for its affordability. While veterans are not subject to a minimum monthly charge, spouses must pay a minimum fee that varies based on the level of care needed.
Monthly fees are based on a resident’s annual gross income, making the cost significantly lower than many comparable retirement communities. Regardless of the amount paid, residents receive access to the same core services and amenities.
Cost Comparison: AFRH vs. Private Retirement Communities
| Cost Factor | AFRH | Private Retirement Community |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee Basis | Percentage of gross income | Fixed monthly rate |
| Typical Monthly Cost | Varies by income | $3,000–$8,000+ |
| Meals Included | Yes (3 daily) | Often extra or limited |
| Medical Care | On-site | Varies; often off-site |
| Levels of Care | 4 levels | Varies |
Note: Specific AFRH fee schedules are provided during the application process.
VA Community Living Centers (Nursing Home Care)
VA Community Living Centers (CLCs) are VA nursing homes that provide short-stay and long-stay nursing home care to veterans who are medically and psychiatrically stable. The Washington DC VA Medical Center operates the Capital View Community Living Center.
Capital View Community Living Center
The Capital View CLC consists of three programs:
Rehabilitation Program — CARF accredited
Long-Term Care Program — Ongoing nursing care
Palliative and Hospice Care Program — End-of-life care
Services Provided at CLCs
VA CLCs provide:
Skilled nursing care
Rehabilitation services (physical, occupational, speech therapy)
Mental health services
Palliative and hospice care
Social work services
Nutrition counseling
Chronic pain management
Vocational rehabilitation evaluation
Case management
Home-based hospital care
Contact Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Facility | Washington DC VA Medical Center |
| Address | 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20422 |
| Phone | 202-745-8000 |
| Nursing/Rehab Appointments | 202-745-8685 |
| Enrollment | Ext. 56282 |
Medical Foster Home Program
The Medical Foster Home Program is a VA alternative to nursing home care for veterans who are no longer able to live independently but prefer private residential living and in-home care. The Medical Foster Home is a private residential home, owned or leased by a trained caregiver, who provides services for one to three veterans requiring nursing home level of care.
Program Benefits
Veterans in the Medical Foster Home Program receive:
A private or semi-private room
A safe environment approved by VA inspection team
Location within 30 miles of the Washington DC VA Medical Center
24-hour supervision by a live-in caregiver
Flexibility in daily routine
A shared living environment with other veterans
Access to a Home-Based Primary Care Team
Personal care in the community
Eligibility for Medical Foster Homes
To be eligible, veterans must be enrolled in VA Home-Based Primary Care. Medical Foster Homes are a private-pay option, often more affordable than institutionalized care. The veteran compensates the caregiver by paying a monthly fee based on income and level of care needed. A financial agreement is finalized prior to placement.
Caregiver Requirements
Medical Foster Home caregivers must:
Complete an application and interview with the Medical Foster Home coordinator
Pass a background check and provide three references
Be at least 21 years old and financially stable
Be physically able to provide needed care
Have formal or informal experience with patient care
Have a backup plan for relief in emergencies
Contact
For more information about the Medical Foster Home Program at the Washington DC VA Medical Center, contact the Medical Foster Home Coordinator through the VA Washington DC health care system.
VA Aid and Attendance Benefit
VA Aid and Attendance (A&A) is a monthly benefit paid in addition to VA pension for veterans and survivors who require the aid and attendance of another person or are housebound. These benefits are not paid without eligibility to Pension.
What Aid and Attendance Provides
Aid and Attendance provides additional monetary payments to veterans who:
Need assistance with activities of daily living (walking, eating, dressing, toileting)
Are bedridden
Are patients in a nursing home due to disability
Have severely limited vision
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for Aid and Attendance:
Must be eligible for VA pension
Must have served at least 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during wartime
Must need assistance with activities of daily living
How to Apply
Apply for Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits by writing to the Pension Management Center (PMC) that serves your state. You may also visit your local regional benefit office to file your request.
National Capital Regional Office
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1722 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20006 |
| Phone | 1-800-827-1000 |
| Hours | Mon–Fri: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
Housing Assistance for DC Veterans
Beyond retirement communities, Washington DC veterans have access to several housing assistance programs.
Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH)
The VASH program provides housing to homeless veterans through a tenant-based rental voucher plus ongoing supportive services. Applicants must be a District of Columbia resident, chronically homeless, a veteran deemed eligible for the VASH Voucher by the VA, and considered vulnerable according to a vulnerability assessment survey.
How to Apply:
Complete a vulnerability assessment survey through a community human/social services worker and forward it to:
Homeless Services Program Office
64 New York Avenue, NE, 5th Floor
Washington, DC 20002
Fax: (202) 442-6355
U.S.VETS Washington DC
U.S.VETS provides temporary housing and support services including case management, rental assistance, utility assistance, moving expenses, and transportation. Contact: 202-940-7954.
Disabled Veterans Homestead Deduction
DC offers a $445,000 reduction in assessed property value for veterans classified as having a total and permanent disability or paid at the 100% disability rating level as a result of unemployability. This deduction saves up to $2,448 per year on a qualifying property.
Abrams Hall
Abrams Hall on the old Walter Reed Army Medical Center campus was converted into 77 long-term housing units for homeless veterans.
DC Office of Veterans Affairs: Local Support
The District of Columbia Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA) provides local advocacy and support for DC veterans. The office connects veterans with supportive wrap-around services and District and Federal services that address homelessness, housing, and other needs.
Contact Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 441 4th Street NW, Suite 707 North, Washington, DC 20001 |
| Phone | (202) 724-5454 |
| ova@dc.gov | |
| Hours | Mon–Fri: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
| Website | ova.dc.gov |
Services Provided
The DC Office of Veterans Affairs assists with:
Applying for federal VA benefits
Transition assistance from military to civilian life
Information and referral services
Advocacy support for veterans and survivors
Housing assistance and homelessness prevention
Free transportation options for qualifying veterans
Comparison of Veterans Housing Options in DC
| Program | Type | Who Qualifies | Cost | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armed Forces Retirement Home | Retirement community with levels of care | Enlisted veterans (50%+ non-commissioned); 20+ years or service-connected disability | Percentage of income | afrh.gov/apply/request-form |
| VA Community Living Center | Nursing home care | Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare needing skilled nursing | VA covers; varies by service connection | Contact DC VA Medical Center |
| Medical Foster Home | Private residential care | Veterans enrolled in VA Home-Based Primary Care | Monthly fee based on income | VA Medical Foster Home Coordinator |
| VASH Program | Rental voucher + services | Chronically homeless DC veterans | Subsidized | Homeless Services Program Office |
| Disabled Veterans Homestead Deduction | Property tax relief | 100% disabled veterans | $445,000 reduction in assessed value | DC Office of Tax and Revenue |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Assuming all veterans qualify for AFRH. Only enlisted veterans (or those with 50%+ non-commissioned service) are eligible. Commissioned officers who served most of their careers as officers do not qualify.
2. Not planning for levels of care. AFRH applicants must be able to live independently at admission. As needs change, four levels of care are available on campus.
3. Missing the independence requirement. Applicants must be able to attend meals, manage personal needs, and keep medical appointments independently at the time of admission.
4. Not exploring VA Aid and Attendance. Many veterans who need assistance with daily living expenses are unaware they may qualify for additional monthly payments through A&A.
5. Forgetting about DC property tax relief. The $445,000 homestead deduction for 100% disabled veterans can save nearly $2,500 per year.
6. Waiting too long to apply. AFRH has a prioritization plan when capacity is reached. Applying early ensures you’re considered when space becomes available.
7. Not contacting the DC Office of Veterans Affairs. The OVA provides free assistance navigating housing and benefit programs at (202) 724-5454.
8. Overlooking VASH for homeless veterans. Chronically homeless DC veterans may qualify for rental vouchers and supportive services through the VASH program.
Latest Rule Changes for 2026
AFRH Gulfport Waitlist
As of June 1, 2026, couples interested in the Gulfport campus are advised that there is a waitlist for admission. For couples where both individuals are veterans, call (800) 422-9988 to inquire.
Disabled Veterans Complete Property Tax Exemption
The DC Council introduced Bill B26-0476, the Disabled Veterans Complete Property Tax Exemption Amendment Act of 2025, which would expand property tax relief for disabled veterans. This legislation is pending as of 2026.
VA Long-Term Care Expansion
VA’s skilled home health care program now covers the costs of in-home and community-based services for veterans with spinal cord injuries, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and other complex medical conditions at 100% of the cost of similar care in a VA Community Living Center.
Common Questions
What is the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Washington DC?
The Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) is a federal retirement community at 3700 N Capitol Street NW for eligible enlisted veterans. Established in 1851, it offers independent living, assisted living, and nursing care on a 272-acre campus with three daily meals, medical care, and recreational facilities.
Who is eligible for the Armed Forces Retirement Home?
Enlisted veterans (including warrant officers and limited-duty officers) who spent more than half their career in non-commissioned service, with at least 20 years of service or a service-connected disability preventing employment. Commissioned officers who served mostly as officers do not qualify.
How do I apply for the Armed Forces Retirement Home?
Request an application at afrh.gov/apply/request-form or call (800) 422-9988. You’ll need your DD-214, insurance cards, military ID, and VA benefit letter. Applicants must pass medical and admissions review boards.
How much does the Armed Forces Retirement Home cost?
Monthly fees are based on a resident’s annual gross income, making AFRH significantly more affordable than private retirement communities. Veterans are not subject to a minimum monthly charge. Spouses pay a minimum fee based on care level.
Does the AFRH offer nursing care?
Yes. AFRH offers four levels of care after admission, allowing residents to remain on campus as their needs change. Assisted living and long-term care are available at both campuses.
What is a VA Community Living Center?
A VA Community Living Center (CLC) is a VA nursing home that provides short-stay and long-stay care to veterans who are medically and psychiatrically stable. The Washington DC VA Medical Center operates the Capital View CLC.
What is the Medical Foster Home Program?
The Medical Foster Home Program places veterans who need nursing home level care in private residential homes with trained caregivers. Veterans receive 24-hour supervision, meals, and home-based primary care through VA.
How do I qualify for VA Aid and Attendance?
You must be eligible for VA pension and need assistance with daily activities like walking, eating, dressing, or toileting. You must have served at least 90 days of active duty with at least one day during wartime.
What housing assistance is available for homeless veterans in DC?
The VASH program provides rental vouchers and supportive services to chronically homeless DC veterans. Contact the Homeless Services Program Office at 64 New York Avenue NE or call U.S.VETS at 202-940-7954.
What is the disabled veterans property tax deduction in DC?
DC offers a $445,000 reduction in assessed property value for veterans with a 100% permanent and total disability rating. This saves up to $2,448 per year on property taxes.
Who do I contact for help with veterans housing in DC?
Contact the DC Office of Veterans Affairs at (202) 724-5454 or ova@dc.gov. The office is at 441 4th Street NW, Suite 707 North, and provides free assistance navigating housing and benefit programs.
Can spouses live at the Armed Forces Retirement Home?
Yes. Spouses may be eligible to live at AFRH alongside a qualified veteran. Both must meet separate eligibility requirements, and spouses pay a minimum fee based on care level.
What is the phone number for the Armed Forces Retirement Home?
Call (800) 422-9988 for general inquiries and admissions. To contact a resident at the Washington DC campus, call 1-202-541-7501.
Is the Armed Forces Retirement Home only for officers?
No. AFRH is specifically for enlisted veterans. Commissioned officers who served most of their careers as officers (other than warrant officers or limited-duty officers) are not eligible.
What levels of care does the AFRH provide?
AFRH provides independent living at admission, then four added levels of care as residents age: assisted living, long-term care, and other supportive services, allowing residents to remain within the community.
Key Takeaways
The Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) at 3700 N Capitol Street NW is the only federal retirement community in Washington DC for enlisted veterans
AFRH eligibility requires 50%+ non-commissioned service and either 20+ years of service or a service-connected disability preventing employment
AFRH costs are income-based, making it significantly more affordable than private retirement communities, with four levels of care available on campus
VA Community Living Centers at the Washington DC VA Medical Center provide nursing home care, including rehabilitation, long-term care, and palliative services
The Medical Foster Home Program offers a private residential alternative to nursing homes for veterans needing skilled nursing care
VA Aid and Attendance provides additional monthly payments for veterans who need help with daily activities like walking, eating, or dressing
**DC offers a $445,000 property tax deduction** for 100% disabled veterans, saving up to $2,448 per year
VASH housing vouchers are available for chronically homeless DC veterans through the Homeless Services Program Office
Contact the DC Office of Veterans Affairs at (202) 724-5454 for free help navigating housing and benefit programs
AFRH Gulfport campus has a waitlist for couples as of June 2026; call (800) 422-9988 to inquire
Official Resources
Armed Forces Retirement Home — afrh.gov
AFRH Application Request — afrh.gov/apply/request-form
VA Washington DC Healthcare System — va.gov/washington-dc-health-care
VA Community Living Centers — va.gov/geriatrics
VA Medical Foster Homes — va.gov/washington-dc-health-care/programs/medical-foster-homes
VA Aid and Attendance — va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound
DC Office of Veterans Affairs — ova.dc.gov
DC Office of Tax and Revenue — otr.cfo.dc.gov
USAGov — Military and Veterans — usa.gov/military-veterans
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📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
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