Senior Scams

 For most of us, it's difficult to understand that there are people who purposely try to take advantage of others.  Unfortunately, it happens more often than we think.  Recently, our office has been working closely with local law enforcement to help unravel a nationwide scam that is affecting citizens in our local area.  Because of the ongoing investigation, we can't reveal the details at this time.  However, it's safe to say that the perpetrators work to build trust with the individual they are targeting, and then use that trust to obtain large sums of money.  In most cases, the victim is handing over their life savings. Because of the trust relationship, the victims struggle to see what is actually happening.  By the time an outside person convinces them that they are being taken advantage of, or they realize it themselves,  it's usually too late.

 If you have elderly friends or loved ones that you worry may become a victim of fraud, or suspect that it has occurred, get involved.  Inquire, but don't be demeaning.  Remember that they may have their own suspicions, but due to the trust relationship, find it embarrassing to consider or discuss.  Be gentle, but ask questions.  And if your suspicions are found to be factual, take action.  If you have any questions, feel free to call our office.  We’ll be glad to help get you connected with people that can assist.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Attention Veterans!

For Veterans that are considering applying for, or are currently receiving the Veterans Aid & Attendance benefit, there are several changes looming on the horizon which you should be aware of.  The good news is that for 2013, it appears that maximum reimbursement rates will be increasing slightly.  While not yet approved, the payment breakdown proposals are:

• Married Veteran – $2,054.00/mth
• Single Veteran – $1,732.00/mth
• Veteran’s Surviving Spouse – $1,113.00/mth
• Veteran with Ill Spouse – $1,360.00/mth

The bad news is that a new bill has been introduced that would require implementing a 3 year look-back for all applicants.  What this means is that a Vet that applies for the Aid & Attendance benefit would have to have met the financial qualifications outlined by the benefit for 3 years before qualifying.  This is a new requirement in that up until now, the VA looked at the applicant’s current financial situation with NO look-back.  Another notable change is the cessation of accelerated processing unless a vet is over the age of 90.  The full context of the proposal can be read by clicking here.
The context of the bill seems to be targeted at abuses within the benefits system, which is admirable.  Unfortunately, as currently written, the persons that will suffer the brunt of the changes will be the veteran who is seeking assistance.  Hopefully, the bill will be fully reviewed and consideration given for those that served our nation prior to passage.  If you have any questions about this topic, give us a call and we’ll be happy to assist in any way we can.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!