Q: Can military veterans use their VA benefits to pay for long-term care?
Overview
The answer is complicated. Aid and Attendance (A&A) is a lesser-known pension benefit that can help cover daily living assistance costs. Veterans with high medical expenses might qualify even if their income is above usual limits.
Eligibility for VA Long-Term Care Benefits
VA benefits assist veterans without service-related disabilities who cannot afford necessary care, as long as income rules are met. To qualify for A&A, veterans must have served 90 days with one day during wartime and have an honorable or general discharge. Combat experience is not required. Check eligibility on the va.gov website.
Types of Long-Term Care Programs
Most care happens at home because facility care is limited by cost and availability. Two main programs support at-home care:
- Aid and Attendance Benefits (A&A): Provides cash to eligible veterans and spouses for caregiver and personal care services.
- Veteran Directed Care Program: Offers a flexible budget for veterans to purchase services like counseling or daily living help.
Facility Care Options
Veterans who live alone may prefer nursing homes, assisted living, or adult health centers. These may be run by the VA or approved community organizations.
Services Covered by Long-Term Care
- 24/7 nursing and medical care
- Help with daily activities (bathing, dressing, meals)
- Pain management and comfort care
- Caregiver support
Importance of Planning
VA long-term care planning is complex. Elder law attorneys who specialize in VA benefits can help maximize care options and navigate other programs like Medicare or Medicaid. They also understand important rules like the three-year look-back.
Why Act Early?
Only about 5% of veterans apply for Aid and Attendance benefits, often due to lack of awareness. Applications can be confusing, and errors delay benefits. Visit VeteranAid.org for free help.
Get Help Now
If you or a loved one is a veteran, start early to get all the benefits available. Contact an elder law attorney or call us at (207) 848-5600. Visit our CONTACT page for details.
