VETERANS BENEFITS, A GREAT RESOURCE FOR SENIORS

–by Kristen Bathon, Sales & Marketing, The Landings at Reed Station Parkway

Are you a wartime veteran (or the surviving spouse of one) with care needs that require assistance of another person on a regular basis? Are you receiving this care in a senior living community or from a home care agency?

If so, you may be eligible to receive a Pension from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) known as the Aid and Attendance Benefit. To qualify, the veteran needs to have served at least 90 days of active duty, with one day during a wartime period, regardless of whether the veteran engaged in combat. A veteran of World War II, the Korean War, or Vietnam who meets the above military requirements and requires ongoing care may be eligible for VA benefits of up to $1,881 per month. The surviving spouse of a wartime veteran can be eligible for as much as $1,209 per month. This income is from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is tax-free and paid directly to the veteran or spouse.

Many veterans and their families are not aware these VA benefits exist and cannot afford the care they need.  Unfortunately, you must apply; the government will not notify you of your eligibility. As with any government program, the application process is not easy nor simply explained. Minor mistakes on the application can cause delays or even denial of benefits. As every situation is unique and the benefit amount they are entitled to varies, it is important to discuss your specific situation with someone experienced with the Aid and Attendance Pension.

As a Director of Sales & Marketing, I am always seeking resources to help our residents afford the care they need. The company we trust for our families is Veterans Financial, Inc. They are a private financial services company that specializes in educating families about Veterans Benefits and Retirement Income Planning as it relates to current or future long-term care expenses. They are not part of the Department of Veterans Affairs but offer free information about Aid and Attendance. Veterans Financial will provide all necessary forms needed to apply, as well as written tips on how to complete the paperwork. Information and application can be obtained by emailing info@veteransfinancial.com or by calling 800-835-1541.

You may wonder “how can they afford to work for free?” Veterans Financial provides financial services to some of the families they work with; this can involve retirement income planning, long-term care funding, life insurance or final expense protection. In these instances, they are compensated by the financial firms with whom the family selects for their planning needs. Veterans Financial’s staff is committed to providing comprehensive service to any and all that seek their assistance.

For more information about The Landings, please contact us at 618-519-9600