As veterans are certainly aware, the Department of Veterans Affairs is a huge government system that offers services to millions of veterans in our country. Within the Department of Veterans Affairs, there are several different divisions. One, in particular, involves non-service connected disability benefits referred to as “aid and attendance.” Our Los Angeles aid and attendance benefits lawyer can help answer any questions about this valuable benefit, which can be difficult to receive.
Who qualifies for Aid and Attendance Benefits?
Wartime veterans who have at least 90 days of active duty, during which at least one day began or ended during the wartime, is eligible for Veterans Aid & Attendance benefits. Also, surviving spouses who were married as of the veteran’s death could also be eligible. However, there are specific medical and financial qualifications that may apply to your situation, so discuss your eligibility with our Los Angeles aid and attendance benefits lawyer.
Eligibility requirements for Veterans Aid and Attendance benefits
Veterans Aid & Attendance benefits are reserved for wartime Veterans or their surviving spouses who require assistance from someone in performing daily tasks, such as eating, bathing, dressing, and undressing. Also, eligible veterans and their spouses who are blind, patients in nursing homes for mental or physical incapacity, and assisted living residents also qualify for these benefits.
Similar to other types of government aid, there are financial requirements or limitations that apply to applicants for Veterans Aid & Attendance benefits. Specifically, the value of the assets veterans can have and still be eligible for these benefits is limited to $80,000, excluding their residence and vehicles. If you have questions about eligibility, then contact our Los Angeles aid and attendance benefits lawyer.
Why veterans benefits is such an important issue
California reportedly has the largest population of veterans in the country, with close to 2 million citizens who are veterans. That means there are nearly 2 million veterans and their spouses who are likely qualified to receive a monthly cash reimbursement or their out-of-pocket medical expenses. However, the benefits application process is relatively complex and many veterans and their families are misinformed about how it all works.
If a veteran initially receives information or advice from a source that is not well-informed, they may be discouraged by their prospects and neglect to pursue their benefits any further. But, with the assistance of our Los Angeles aid and attendance benefits lawyer, you may be able to qualify for benefits you never thought you could.
Some common myths surrounding Veterans Aid & Attendance eligibility
There are a few misconceptions about the eligibility requirements for Veterans Aid & Attendance benefits. One of those is that you cannot receive the benefits if you live at home. That is not the case because these specific benefits are meant to reimburse veterans and their spouses for out-of-pocket medical expenses regardless of where you live.
Another misconception is that when a veteran or spouse passes away before the application for benefits has been approved, the benefits are lost. In reality, it is possible to file for post-death benefits on behalf of the surviving spouse or heirs. The condition is that the original claim was properly filed before death. Most people are not aware of these retroactive benefits or of the applicable deadlines for filing the application for benefits. It is important for the family to follow up regarding the application as promptly as they can.
Required Veterans Aid & Attendance Forms
Once you have gathered the necessary documents and information, It is time to fill out the necessary forms for completing the application. You need to obtain and complete VA Form 21-527EZ (For Veterans) or VA Form 21-534EZ (For Spouses). If you need assistance, you can contact the Veterans Administration in your area. Our Los Angeles aid and attendance benefits lawyer can also help.
Older applicants can request expedited processing
Applicants who are age 90 or older can request that their application for Veterans Aid & Attendance benefits be expedited. Indeed, the Veterans Administration’s regulations provide that the processing center should give priority to applications from veterans or widows age 90 or older. If this applies to you, simply submit a cover letter making that request along with your application.
If you have questions regarding veterans aid and attendance benefits, estate planning, trust contests, or any other trust administration issues, please contact the Schomer Law Group either online or by calling us in Los Angeles at (310) 337-7696, and in Orange County at (562) 346-3209.
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