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+!