As we age, preparing for the future will likely involve paying for long term care needs.
According to a study done by Roger & Komisar in 2003 almost 10 million people in the year 2000 needed some form of long-term care in the United States.
Of this population it is estimated that 37% were under the age of 65 and nearly 6 million or 63% were over 65. That number is estimated to increase to 12 million people needing long term care by 2020. One of the greatest myths with regard to long term care costs, is that Medicare will pay for long term care expenses.
Unfortunately, the Medicare system is not designed to pay for long term care needs and many Americans do not find this out until it is too late. Once diagnosed with a medical condition, a medical rating can become costly or even uninsurable. It may be too late to safeguard what we call your protected years. Preplanning now for your post-retirement age is vital.
In addition to buying long term care insurance at the right time, it is important to examine all future benefits due to the applicant, as well as estimated care needs. We strive to create a plan of action that will not just sell you a product covering your needs as you age, but look at your unique situation.
Who is Eligible
This is a benefit for Veterans or Surviving Spouses who meet eligibility requirements regarding (1) military service, (2) net worth limitations, (3) disabilities and level of care, and (4) income. The purpose of this benefit is to provide some financial assistance when a veteran’s (or surviving spouse’s) health declines and their medical expenses increase. When a person qualifies for this benefit, the VA considers all sources of income and deducts eligible medical expenses. The VA then supplements income to bring it up to income levels as set by Congress.
Military Service Requirements
A Veteran with 90 days active duty, one day during a period of war, and anything but dishonorably discharged. A surviving spouse of a War Time Veteran must have been married to a veteran at the time of veteran’s death.
Net Worth Limitations
While the VA does set limitations on assets, this should not discourage you from calling and discussing your unique situation with us. The information is free and it is our goal to educate our veterans in the benefit available to them.
Disability/Level of Care
They must require the attendance of another person to assist in at least two activities of daily living: eating, transferring, walking, bathing, dressing, or toileting. It also includes individuals who are blind or patients in a nursing home because of mental or physical incapacity.
Potential Monthly Benefit
The benefit is available tax free to help assist with the cost of assisted living.
2024 Maximum Benefit Amounts
| Benefit Level | Maximum Monthly Benefit | Maximum Annual Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Single Veteran | ||
| Married Veteran | ||
| Spouse needs care, living Veteran does not | ||
| Surviving Spouse* |
*Death pension plus aid and attendance allowance benefit
Request for Discharge Papers
Please call (602) 288-9094
Periods of War
- WWII – 12/7/1941 thru 12/31/1946
- Korean War – 6/27/1950 thru 1/31/1955
- Vietnam War – 8/5/1964 thru 5/7/1975 or in Vietnam as early as 11/1/1955
- Persian Gulf War – 8/2/1990 thru (yet to be determined)
How Long is the Application Process?
It takes approximately 4 months to actually begin receiving payment from the VA. However, the VA pays retroactively to the first day of the month following the date the application is received.
How To Apply
Watch the NBC Nightly News video about VA Aid and Attendance:
