The Veterans Administration provides two different programs designed to pay monthly cash to veterans. The first program is referred to as Service Connected “Compensation” and is based on the severity of a veteran’s injuries which occurred during their military service. The second program is referred to as Non-Service Connected Aid and Attendance “Pension” and is a needs-based benefit based on high care costs and limited assets.
“Compensation” is available to veterans who have incurred service-connected disabilities. VA estimates about 35 percent of all currently discharging veterans will apply for compensation some time during their lives. This is the most widely known and utilized VA benefit for veterans. Income and assets are not considered when applying for this benefit and the income received is tax-free. Veterans with a low service connected disability rating that have limited assets and high care costs can “switch” to pension benefits, which may provide more income to assist with care costs.
Non-Service Connected Aid and Attendance “Pension” is a lesser-known and utilized benefit available to an honorably discharged veteran/surviving spouse, who served during a war time. It is a needs based benefit available to veterans and their spouses who incur high care costs due to a non-service connected illness or injury. Many veterans or their spouses require an in-home caregiver, assisted living facility, or board and care, making the need for additional monthly income critical. This income is also tax-free.
The rates for Non-Service Connected Aid and Attendance Pension are as follows:
Single Veteran: $1,732 per month
Widow of a Veteran: $1,113 per month
Married Vet with a spouse: $2,054 per month
Vet married to a Vet: $2,676 per month
For more information please contact the Law Office of Jane M. McNamara at 661-287-3260 and visit www.JaneMcnamara.com or www.VABenefits4seniors.com. The office is located at 28212 Kelly Johnson Parkway, Suite 110 in Valencia.