Veterans who need help with daily living due to disabilities or illness may qualify for the Veterans Pension with Aid and Attendance benefit. This program provides additional financial support to help with medical care, assisted living, and other personal needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the qualifications and how to apply for this vital benefit.

What Is the Veterans Pension with Aid and Attendance?

The Veterans Pension is a benefit provided to wartime veterans who meet certain income and asset limits, and the Aid and Attendance (A&A) addition offers extra financial support to those who need help with daily activities. Aid and Attendance is not a standalone benefit; it supplements the pension for eligible veterans who require the aid of another person due to disability or illness.

Basic Eligibility Requirements for Veterans Pension

To qualify for the basic Veterans Pension, a veteran must meet the following criteria:

1. Service Requirements:
   The veteran must have served at least 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during a wartime period. Veterans who entered active duty after September 7, 1980, generally must have served at least 24 months or the full period for which they were called to active duty.
2. Age or Disability:
   Veterans must be either 65 or older, or be totally and permanently disabled. Disabilities don’t have to be service-related, but they must limit the veteran’s ability to work.
3. Income and Net Worth Limits:
   There are strict income and asset limits for eligibility. As of 2024, a veteran’s annual family income and net worth must be below a threshold set by Congress. Medical expenses can be deducted from the income, potentially allowing veterans with higher medical bills to qualify.

Aid and Attendance Eligibility Requirements

In addition to meeting the basic Veterans Pension criteria, veterans who need extra help with daily living may qualify for Aid and Attendance if they meet any of the following conditions:

• Require assistance with daily activities:
  Veterans who need help with daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, feeding, or using the bathroom may qualify for A&A. The assistance must be required on a regular basis.
• Bedridden:
  If a veteran is confined to bed due to a disability or illness (other than short-term stays), they may be eligible.
• Nursing home residency:
  Veterans living in nursing homes due to a disability or illness may qualify for A&A.
• Significant vision impairment:
  Veterans with corrected visual acuity of 5/200 or less in both eyes, or a visual field of 5 degrees or less, may qualify for A&A.

How to Apply for Aid and Attendance Benefits

The application process for Aid and Attendance can be complex, so it’s essential to follow these steps:

1. Gather Required Documents:
   You will need several documents, including your discharge papers (DD-214), medical records, proof of income and net worth, and documentation of your disability.
2. Submit VA Form 21-2680:
   This is the form specifically used to apply for Aid and Attendance. You will also need to submit evidence supporting your need for daily assistance, such as medical evaluations and personal statements.
3. Apply Through the VA:
   The application can be submitted directly to the VA, either online or via mail, or you can seek help from an accredited representative, like a veterans service organization (VSO) or an attorney, to guide you through the process.

What Happens After You Apply?

After applying, the VA will review your claim and make a determination based on the evidence you provided. This process can take several months, so it’s important to be patient. You will receive a decision letter once your claim has been processed. If approved, Aid and Attendance benefits will be added to your Veterans Pension.

Get the Support You Deserve

The Veterans Pension with Aid and Attendance can provide much-needed financial assistance to veterans who require help with daily living. Understanding the eligibility requirements and applying correctly are critical steps to ensuring you or your loved one receive this support.

If you need assistance with your VA claim or have questions about qualifying for Veterans Pension with Aid and Attendance, VA Benefits Attorneys can help. Contact us today for expert guidance and to ensure you receive the benefits you’ve earned.