Non Service-Connected Benefits
The VA may pay you a “pension” if you are a wartime veteran and you are permanently and totally disabled, or are 65 or older. This "Pension Benefit" IS NOT dependent upon service-related injuries, meaning, you need not have been injured in while serving in the military to receive this “pension.” The “pension” is based upon financial need, and each "pension" has its own level of benefits and qualifications. There are THREE levels of "pension":
BASIC PENSION: To be eligible for Basic Pension, A veteran alone must have countable income LESS than $11,830 a year, and a veteran with a spouse must have countable income LESS than: $15,493 a year. It is “needs based”.
HOUSEBOUND PENSION: This benefit pays additional monthly compensation, over the “basic” pension, if the requirements are met. Simply stated, the criteria for Housebound requires that the claimant needs regular assistance, but is not as limited as those who would qualify for Aid and Attendance. Care can be provided by non-spouse family members or professional caregivers/agencies. Care may also be provided outside the home, such as in a care facility.
AID AND ATTENDANCE (“improved pension”). Aid and Attendance benefits can help pay for care in the home, Board and Care's (RCFE), Assisted Living facilities, and Skilled Nursing facilities. This "improved pension" pays the highest monetary award. The unreimbursed medical expenses and care costs must be substantial, and the strict eligibility requirements met. For additional information, please visit the “Aid and Attendance” page.
The VA may pay you a “pension” if you are a wartime veteran and you are permanently and totally disabled, or are 65 or older. This "Pension Benefit" IS NOT dependent upon service-related injuries, meaning, you need not have been injured in while serving in the military to receive this “pension.” The “pension” is based upon financial need, and each "pension" has its own level of benefits and qualifications. There are THREE levels of "pension":
BASIC PENSION: To be eligible for Basic Pension, A veteran alone must have countable income LESS than $11,830 a year, and a veteran with a spouse must have countable income LESS than: $15,493 a year. It is “needs based”.
HOUSEBOUND PENSION: This benefit pays additional monthly compensation, over the “basic” pension, if the requirements are met. Simply stated, the criteria for Housebound requires that the claimant needs regular assistance, but is not as limited as those who would qualify for Aid and Attendance. Care can be provided by non-spouse family members or professional caregivers/agencies. Care may also be provided outside the home, such as in a care facility.
AID AND ATTENDANCE (“improved pension”). Aid and Attendance benefits can help pay for care in the home, Board and Care's (RCFE), Assisted Living facilities, and Skilled Nursing facilities. This "improved pension" pays the highest monetary award. The unreimbursed medical expenses and care costs must be substantial, and the strict eligibility requirements met. For additional information, please visit the “Aid and Attendance” page.
Southern California VA Benefits Attorney Jane M. McNamara - Law Office of Jane M. McNamara - (661) 287-3260
28212 Kelly Johnson Parkway, Suite 110 Valencia, California 91355 - Serving all of Southern California,
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Nothing on this website is intended to create an attorney/client relationship. Information on this site is subject to change, and you should always discuss your matter with a qualified professional.
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