Each year around Veterans Day, we like to remind our wartime veterans and their spouses about an often-overlooked VA benefit that could help pay for needed long-term care assistance. As a Tampa elder law attorney, I’ve seen how the Aid & Attendance pension benefit has been life-changing for many veterans and their families.
What is Aid & Attendance?
This special pension provides additional monthly income to wartime veterans or their surviving spouses who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, medication management, or other personal care needs. Surprisingly, many eligible veterans never apply simply because they don’t know it exists!
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, veterans must have:
- Served at least 90 days of active duty
- Served at least one day during wartime
- Received a discharge other than dishonorable
- A need for assistance with daily living activities
What Many Don’t Know
Here are some lesser-known facts about Aid & Attendance:
- It can be used to pay family caregivers (except spouses)
- The benefit applies to care at home, in assisted living, or in a nursing home
- Surviving spouses of wartime veterans may also qualify
- Veterans don’t need a service-connected disability to be eligible
- The benefit is tax-free
Financial Considerations
For 2024, the maximum monthly benefit can be substantial:
- Up to $2,229 for a veteran
- Up to $2,642 for a married veteran
- Up to $1,432 for a surviving spouse
While there are asset and income limits, proper planning with an experienced Tampa elder law attorney can help you qualify while protecting your savings.
Don’t Wait to Apply
The application process can take several months, but benefits are often paid retroactively from the application date. That’s why it’s crucial to start the process as soon as possible if you think you might qualify.
This Veterans Day, honor yourself or your veteran loved one by exploring this valuable benefit. If you’d like to learn more about Aid & Attendance or need help with the application process, please reach out to our office at (813) 438-8503. We’re dedicated to helping veterans access the benefits they’ve earned through their service to our country.