What Are the Basics of Aid and Attendance Planning?

Veterans and survivors who require the aid and attendance of another person, or are housebound, may be eligible for a VA pension with additional monetary payment for higher care needs. These benefits are paid to individuals who need help performing activities of daily living, such as eating, dressing, bathing, taking medications and going to the restroom. The program also applies to those with disabilities that require them to be bedridden.

Eligibility

Several categories of people qualify for the pension with Aid and Attendance, including veterans or their surviving spouses who need help in the home as well as those who are blind or who reside in an assisted living facility or nursing home. In addition, independent veterans who have an ill spouse can qualify.

Amount of Payments (as of 2016)

  • Veterans – up to $1,788 per month
  • Surviving spouse – up to $1,149 per month
  • Veteran with a spouse -- up to $2,120 per month
  • Veteran with a sick spouse -- $1,406 per month

As you can imagine, Aid and Attendance payments can be enormously helpful when managing the care expenses of an infirm or sick veteran or spouse. If you have questions about eligibility or other concerns about the program, the estate planning attorneys at Gudorf Law Group can help. Call us now at 1-937-898-5583 for a private consultation.