Veteran Caregiver Benefits That You Most Likely Do Not Know About With Erika Jacobson

In this episode of Working Caregivers: The Invisible Employees, we’re joined by Erika Jacobson, a VA social worker, lifelong caregiver, and member of the sandwich generation, to unpack what caregiving really looks like inside veteran families. Erika blends professional insight with personal experience to help us understand why so many working caregivers feel isolated—and how support systems can make a real difference.We talk through the VA’s Caregiver Support Programs, benefits many families don’t know exist, and why employers play a critical role in supporting caregivers at work. This episode is packed with practical information, advocacy, and a reminder that caregivers shouldn’t have to do this alone.  Episode Highlights:[1:39] – Who working caregivers are and why they’re often invisible [2:23] – Welcoming Erika and a cross-country weather check [3:09] – South Dakota fun facts: Mount Rushmore and the Corn Palace [4:51] – Erika’s family caregiving journey begins [8:27] – How early caregiving shaped her career path [11:57] – Overview of the VA Caregiver Support Program [16:00] – Stipends, respite care, and caregiver benefits [20:36] – National Family Caregivers Month and caregiver isolation [23:00] – Zack challenges employers to partner with the VA [29:33] – Aid & Attendance explained [32:31] – Advice for working caregivers: ask for help Links & Resources: Corn Palace (Mitchell, SD) A uniquely South Dakota landmark made entirely of corn murals—highlighted during our lighter conversation about Erika’s home state. https://cornpalace.com/Mount Rushmore National Memorial One of the most iconic U.S. landmarks, also located in South Dakota and mentioned during our opening conversation. https://www.nationalparks.org/explore/parks/mount-rushmore-national-memorialNational Family Caregivers Month (November) A time dedicated to recognizing, supporting, and uplifting family caregivers—an important focus of this episode.VA Caregiver Support Program Provides education, resources, respite care, and support for caregivers of eligible veterans. https://www.caregiver.va.govFind Your Local VA Caregiver Support Team Search tool to connect directly with your local VA Caregiver Support Coordinator. https://www.caregiver.va.gov/support/New_CSC_Page.aspComprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) A VA program that may offer a stipend, health coverage, and expanded respite care for caregivers of veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities.Aid & Attendance Benefit Additional financial assistance tied to the VA pension for veterans or surviving spouses who need help with daily activities. https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/VA Wartime Periods (Pension Eligibility) Defines qualifying service periods for non-service-connected pensions and Aid & Attendance. https://www.va.gov/pension/eligibility/Erika Jacobson’s Documentary A powerful look into Erika’s caregiving journey and lived experience. https://youtu.be/Tt6Nfsz5vi0 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a review. Remember to check out our website at invisibleemployeeadvocates.co