Unfortunately, many folks are unaware of the VA Aid and Attendance benefit for veterans and surviving spouses. The benefit applies to veterans and surviving spouses who require the regular attendance of another person to assist in bathing, dressing, meal preparation, medication monitoring or other various activities of daily living. This benefit is available to individuals who reside in assisted living communities, personal care homes, skilled nursing facilities and those receiving personal in-home care.
How can these benefits help someone?
Aid and Attendance can help pay for care in the home, skilled nursing facility, personal care home or an assisted living community. A veteran may be eligible for up to $2,229/month, while the surviving spouse of a veteran may be eligible for up to $1,490/month. A married couple may be eligible for up to $2,642/month.
Who is Eligible?
Any War Veteran with 90 days of active duty with at least one day during active War time, with Honorable Discharge is eligible for this benefit. A surviving spouse of a War Veteran may be eligible if married at the time of death. The individual must qualify both medically and financially. The medical condition must be confirmed by a physician’s diagnosis and the veteran/spouse must not be driving. Financially, the amount of assets are considered when qualifying for this benefit; several items such as their home, vehicle, pre-paid funeral expenses and many other items may not be included in this number. For further information regarding financial qualifications, consider seeking the professional advice of an attorney or financial planner.
Eligibility dates are:
- World War ll: 12/07/1941 – 12/31/1946 (Must have served 90 days active duty)
- Korean Conflict: 6/27/1950 – 1/31/1955 (Must have served 90 days active duty)
- Vietnam Era: 8/5/1964 – 5/7/1975 2/28/61 (for vets who served “in country” before 8/5/64)
- Persian Gulf War: 8/2/1990 (present Must have served 2 years active duty)
How do I apply for this benefit?
For VA assistance, please call us at (616) 485-3365 or visit our website www.crossroadseldercare.com and fill out our VA questionnaire to see if you are eligible. To reach the Kent County Veterans Affairs office, you can contact them at (616) 632-5722.
How quickly would I receive the benefit?
The time frame is determined by the accuracy of the initial application. The average process takes between 4-6 months. However, the VA does pay retroactively from the date of application. The resident is paid directly from the VA. This program financially assists the resident with paying their monthly care and/or services.
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