Seniors: Do You Know About Veterans Administration Benefits for Long-Term Care?

The VA has a special program which will pay up to $2,127 per month for a married couple, tax free, to assist their veterans with care related expenses.  The benefit pays $1,794 per month to a single veteran, and $1,153 per month to the surviving spouse of a veteran.  The eligibility rules of this needs-based program can be complex, but the extra funds often allow seniors to financially afford beautiful assisted living communities, obtain private care in their home, or to afford small private care facilities.
The VA approves these benefits for a claimant (veteran or a surviving spouse) based on annual income, annual care costs, age, and assets. Medical or care expenses are allowed as deductions to reduce the claimant’s countable income for VA purposes and to qualify for benefits.
However, it is important to know that Veterans and or surviving spouses (claimants) that receive these special benefits (referred to as VA Non-Service Connected Pension with Aid and Attendance benefits) can have their benefits be reduced and even eliminated if their monthly care costs are substantially reduced or eliminated after receiving approval.
For example, if a claimant no longer requires as much care, and the costs are reduced, the claimant’s VA benefit income can be reduced.  If care is no longer needed and the care expenses have stopped, the claimant can lose the VA benefit.  Additionally, if the rules are not followed correctly, the VA may request repayment of the benefits paid.
The VA requires all claimants to notify the VA immediately when care costs are reduced or eliminated.  This is a requirement that the VA takes very seriously, with consequences if these rules are not followed.
If you believe you or a loved one may be eligible for VA Non-Service Connected Pension with Aid and Attendance, or if you or your loved one is currently receiving this benefit, you may wish to obtain proper legal advice from our VA Accredited Attorneys at the McNamara Law Firm, PC.  It is important that the veteran and/or the spouse maintain eligibility, so there are no unwelcome and costly surprises.
For more information, please contact the McNamara Law Firm, PC at 661-287-3260, or visit www.themcnamaralawfirm.com.