Applying for the Aid and Attendance pension program from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can be a complex and lengthy process. Additionally, it’s important to adhere to VA regulations to retain eligibility for the Aid and Attendance benefits.
What is the Aid and Attendance Pension?
The Veterans Benefits Administration, a division of the VA, provides tax-free monthly pensions to eligible wartime veterans and their survivors, based on financial need. This pension is specifically for veterans without service-connected disabilities. Additionally, the Aid and Attendance benefit offers extra financial support for those who permanently require the assistance of another person for daily living activities. This enhanced amount is added to the regular VA pension.
Simplifying VA Aid and Attendance Pension Eligibility
A simple method to determine eligibility for the VA pension with Aid and Attendance is to evaluate three main criteria: 1. Military service qualifications, 2. Medical needs that require assistance, and 3. Financial necessity. These key areas form the foundation of the application process.
Do You Meet the “3-Ms” to Qualify?
To qualify for the VetAssist Program and the VA pension with Aid and Attendance, the following criteria must be met:
- Military: The applicant should be a veteran or the surviving spouse of a veteran who served a minimum of 90 days on active duty, with at least one day during a wartime period. An honorable or general discharge is necessary. Persian Gulf War veterans need a longer active duty service of two years or for the entire period they were called to serve.
- Medical: The applicant must have a non-service connected medical condition that necessitates assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs).
- Money: The applicant’s net worth should be at or below $155,356, excluding their primary residence and vehicle. Non-reimbursable medical and long-term care expenses may also reduce countable income.
These eligibility conditions ensure that veterans or their surviving spouses who need daily assistance and meet financial criteria can receive necessary support.