Veteran Benefits
Veteran Benefits provide our men and women who served in the military with a variety of assistance. They include different types of pensions, medical care, medication savings and other services. We honor our Veterans this Sunday. 
So, if you or a loved is a veteran, you are likely eligible to receive some help. Each program has its own qualifiers. So, it is worthwhile to call the Veterans Administration or go to their website. And if you receive your medical care through the VA, check with your Case Manager.
Aid and Attendance
A terrific program is a pension that also offers spousal benefits is Aid and Attendance. If approved, a veteran and/or spouse or widow could receive up to $1,830 to $2,902 a month. Money for non-reimbursable health care expenses. That means the veteran who pays for home care, medical supplies or equipment not covered by Medicare or insurance may qualify to receive Aid and Attendance. Eligibility requirements are: a minimum of ninety (90) days active duty, with at least one day during wartime. They must have an honorable discharge and a non-service related disability requiring help with personal care. Military service does not have to be at the “Front” in a foreign country. Therefore, you could have been stationed stateside at a desk job.
A&A has eligible periods of war or conflict which differ a little from standard dates of war/conflict. Dates include: WWII – Dec. 7, 1941 – Dec. 31, 1946. Korea – June 27, 1950 – Jan. 31, 1955. Vietnam Era – Feb. 28, 1961 – before Aug. 5, 1964 – in Vietnam. Aug. 5, 1964 – May 7, 1975 serving either in Vietnam or elsewhere. Gulf War – Aug. 2, 1990 to present.
The V.A. has also instituted a three year “look back” period for any monetary gifts. This is similar to the Medicaid program. We recommend you consult an Elder Law Attorney or VA Benefits specialist.
