If you are a Veteran, you are entitled to numerous benefits if you are in need of medical care or nursing home care. These VA benefits are known as the “Aid and Attendance” benefit.

There are a number of different benefit levels available for veterans and their surviving spouses. Each tier has its own eligibility requirements and benefit limits. Those veterans who qualify for the Aid and Attendance benefits can get help paying for in-home care, assisted living facility, or nursing home care. The exact amount of your benefit depends on how much your care costs exceed your household income.

The VA offers two benefit disability programs:

1. Disability Compensation – for veterans with service-related disabilities
2. Disability Pension – for any veteran who served for at least 1 day during a recognized wartime period and now has a disability (does not have to be associated with their military service)

Contrary to what many believe, VA benefits do not require that you have a service-related injury or disability or that you served in combat. The Aid & Attendance benefits are available for every veteran who served for at least 90 days, including at least one day during a recognized wartime period, and who received a discharge other than a dishonorable discharge.

The VA recognized wartime periods are:

• WW2: December 7, 1941 – December 31, 1946
• Korean War: June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955
• Vietnam Era / Vietnam War: February 28, 1961 – May 7, 1975
• Persian Gulf / Gulf War: August 2, 1990 – through a future date set by law

The Law Offices of Vasiliadis Pappas Associates counsels veterans on their rights to these benefits and assists them in obtaining these and other public benefits. Contact Vasiliadis & Pappas today to learn more about Veterans’ benefits planning.