Veterans’ Benefits: Are You Eligible for Aid and Attendance?
If you are a U.S. armed service Veteran, you can attest to how challenging life can be. Most Veterans suffer from diverse challenges. For instance, many are in dire need of help with basic life aspects, such as running errands, companionship, meal preparation, transport from one area to the other, and general care. Fortunately, if you are housebound or in need of help, you may be eligible for the VA Aid and Attendance program.
Through the Veteran Affairs (VA) department, the U.S. government offers in-home support to all Veterans. However, only a small number of people are aware of the existence of such support. The support is provided through the VA Aid and Attendance, a benefits program established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
So, what is VA Aid and Attendance, and how can you benefit from this program? Keep reading to learn more about this benefit scheme, how you can apply, and your eligibility requirements!
What Is VA Aid and Attendance?
VA Aid and Attendance refers to a month-to-month allowance benefit that offers a totally free benefit to Veterans who offered their service during wartime. The benefits are billed directly to VA.
The VA Aid and Attendance payments are not just available to Veterans. Any dependent – such as children and single spouses of Veterans – are also eligible for the payments. In most cases, it can be challenging to know whether or not you or your dependents qualify for free in-home government support. It is advisable to contact your local VA office or providers to discuss your options.
VA Aid and Attendance Eligibility
War Service
For Veterans to be eligible for the VA Aid and Attendance pension, they must have been in service for at least 90 days.
Within this period, the Veteran must have served at least some days in the war. It would help if you were awarded an honorable discharge. Even if you were not granted such a discharge, you should at least have a discharge that isn't considered dishonorable.
Some people often share the misconception that the eligible Veterans are those who were in combat. That's not true. According to the provisions of the VA, you are eligible if you served during the following wartime periods:
- December 7, 1991 – December 31, 1946 (World War II)
- June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955 (Korean Conflict)
- August 5, 1964 – May 7, 1975 (Vietnam Era)
- August 2, 1990 (Gulf War)
Total Disability
Serving in the U.S. Army during wartime isn't the only eligibility criteria. If you are 65 years of age and above and entirely disabled, you qualify for the VA Aid and Attendance pension. However, you should provide all the necessary medical proof when applying for the benefit allowance.
Income and Asset Limits
The assets you have will limit your allowable benefits. For 2021, the net worth limit is $130,773. Usually, this rate increases by specific percentages each year.
How to Apply for Veteran's Benefits
You are required to fill VA Form 21-2680, the Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance. After filling out all the details well, mail the form to your state's pension management center. The easiest way, however, would be to contact your local VA for guidance.
Final Thoughts
Many Veterans are not aware of the existence of the VA Aid and Attendance substitute support benefit. So many Veterans are in need of help with basic care in the home. Aid and Attendance services can include caregiving, meal prep, transportation, help with errands, and companionship.
Now that you know about this earned support from the government, why don't you go ahead and apply? If you face any challenges, the team at Senior Helpers will be here to help you navigate the application process!