The VA pays a service pension to disabled veterans who are not able to work. There are additional benefits for those who are housebound, and those in need of Aid and Attendance.
This pension benefit is one of the most overlooked benefits available to senior citizens, and can provide a tremendous benefit to your clients.
The pension is also available for surviving spouses. This pension is available whether or not the disability is service-connected, but to be eligible you must meet the following requirements:
- You must not have been discharged under dishonorable conditions.
- If you enlisted before September 7, 1980, you must have served 90 days or more of active duty with at least one day during a period of war.
- You must be permanently and totally disabled, or age 65 or older.
In addition, your income must be below the yearly limit set by law; called the Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR).
The MAPR for 2012 are below:
- Veteran with no dependent: $1,021/mo
- Veteran with one dependent: $1,337/mo
- Housebound veteran with no dependent: $1,248/mo
- Housebound veteran with one dependent: $1,564/mo
The pension depends on your income. The VA pays the difference between your income and the MAPR. The pension is usually paid in 12 equal payments.
Contact us for more information and assistance in qualifying for VA Aid and Attendance Benefits.
Aid and Attendance. A veteran who needs the help of an attendant may qualify for additional help on top of the disability pension benefit. The veteran needs to show that he or she needs the help of an attendant on a regular basis. A veteran who lives in a nursing home is presumed to need aid and attendance.
A veteran who meets these requirements will get the difference between his or her income and the MAPR below (2012 figures):
- Aid and attendance with no dependent: $1,703/mo
- Aid and attendance with one dependent: $2,019/mo
Benefits for surviving spouse:
A similar benefit is payable to the surviving spouse of a veteran. The benefit amounts are:
- Surviving spouse with no dependent: $684/mo
- Surviving spouse with one dependent: $896/mo
- Housebound with no dependent: $837/mo
- Housebound with one dependent: $1,048/mo
- Aid and attendance with no dependent: $1,094/mo
- Aid and attendance with one dependent: $1,306/mo
Free Consultation with a Lawyer
For a free initial consultation with the Law Offices of Steven M. Ratner, call 888-336-1645 toll free or send us an e-mail.
