Has the question of how to pay for senior living concerned you or your family? Veteran Affairs Aid and Attendance is an option. The first thought that comes to your mind will probably be: I don’t think anyone in my family qualifies for Veteran’s aid. But do not be so certain, of all those eligible, only an estimated quarter end up applying for it. In reality, eligibility requirements are not as restrictive as most people think they are. In fact, many families cannot believe how good a deal they are getting once they discover the benefits of the aid.
What is Veteran Affairs Aid and Attendance?
Veteran Affairs Aid provides a monthly payment on top of existing Veteran pensions for both eligible veterans and surviving spouses.
Is Your Loved One Eligible?
To be eligible for it, the applicant or late applicant must have served in active duty with the United States Armed Forces for at least 90 days (before September 8, 1980) or 24 months (after September 7, 1980) with at least one day during these wartime periods:
Mexican Border conflict: May 9, 1916 – April 5, 1917
World War I: April 6, 1917 – November 11, 1918
World War II: December 7, 1941 – December 31, 1946
Korean conflict: June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955
Vietnam War Era: February 28, 1961 – May 1975 for veterans who served in the Republic of Vietnam; August 5, 1964 – May 7, 1975, for other veterans
Gulf War: August 2, 1990 – future date to be determined by law or a presidential order
Additionally, they must not have been dishonorably discharged. They must be at least 65 years old and have a permanent disability severely affecting their quality of life or are receiving from Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability. Financially, the veteran’s net worth must be below $130,773, though this limit set by Congress may change annually.
How to Apply for Veteran Affairs Aid?
Your loved one will need to prepare his/her social security number, Veteran Affairs file number, and Veteran’s service number, following that, apply either online with a VA Form 21-2680 or visit a Veteran Affair’s regional office. It is best to also support your application with a doctor’s report on your loved one’s condition.
In best-case scenarios, monthly income will start flowing in within 60 days of application. The good news is that Veteran Affairs will retroactively provide payments if you were eligible in the past but did not apply until years after, subject to you completing a few additional forms.
If you are still uncertain reach out to your regional Veteran’s Affairs office or contact our team at TerraBella Lake Norman. If you or your loved one is applicable for Veteran’s Aid, we will happily assist your application, and while you are at it, check out the other services we offer!
