As a society, we have always held those who serve in the military in the highest regard. We’re also very cognizant of the importance of providing for the needs of our veterans when they return home. As a law firm that places an emphasis on elder law matters, this would be a good time to draw some attention to the Veterans Aid and Attendance Special Pension.
Most people are aware of the fact that veterans of the armed services are entitled to a retirement pension after they have served for a minimum of 20 years. The Veterans Aid and Attendance Special Pension is something entirely different. You could potentially be qualified for this benefit in addition to your retirement benefits.
On the other side of the coin, you can become eligible for the Veterans Aid and Attendance Special Pension without having served for at least 20 years. In fact, the length of service requirement is surprisingly modest.
Military veterans who have served for at least 90 days with a minimum of one of these days taking place during a time of war meet the length of service requirement.
The Veterans Aid and Attendance Special Pension is in existence to provide financial help to qualified veterans who need assistance with their day-to-day needs.
According to government agencies, the majority of people in the United States will someday need help with their activities of daily living. Many of these individuals can receive care in their own homes. This can involve the engagement of home health aides. Of course you have to pay for in-home assistance.
Other seniors must reside full-time in assisted living communities or nursing homes. These facilities are even more expensive.
The special pension can definitely be of great assistance to veterans who are receiving help with their daily needs.
Because it is intended for veterans with even small amounts of financial need, you do have to prove that you are not in a position to easily pick up these expenses on your own.
If you qualify for the Veterans Aid and Attendance Special Pension as a single veteran you could receive $1,733 per month. A veteran with a spouse or dependent who is qualified for the pension could be eligible for $2,054 per month.
This special pension is also available to the surviving spouse of a deceased veteran who had earned eligibility. A surviving spouse could receive as much as $1,114 per month.
When you are envisioning your future you should understand the fact that Medicare does not assist with long-term care costs. This is a challenge for many, and veterans who have earned this benefit may find it to be invaluable during the latter stages of their lives.
If you are a veteran who would like to learn more about the Veterans Aid and Attendance Special Pension, visit the website of the United States Veterans Benefits Administration.
Blaine Peterson
Author, Attorney
Parman & Easterday
Since founding Parman & Easterday in 1985, Larry has led over 1,000 free, community-service education programs and helped more than 10,000 Oklahoma families go from putting off their estate plan to getting it done. His goal for every client is the same: to become the person their family calls "the one who took care of everything."
Larry is the author of three books: The Straight Shooter's Guide to Estate Planning; Estate Planning Basics; and Guiding Those Left Behind in Oklahoma. He served as Oklahoma's Secretary of State and Secretary of Commerce, and his firm is the only member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys in the state.
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