Are you eligible for
Aid & Attendance?
Aid & Attendance Eligibility
If you're unsure if you qualify for the VA Aid & Attendance (A&A) pension, review the requirements below. Or, you can answer this questionnaire to see if you're qualified.
Eligibility Requirements for the Veterans Pension:
Are you eligible? Veterans aged 65 or older who served during wartime, as well as their surviving spouses, may qualify for this tax-free benefit provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
To determine your eligibility for the VA Pension with Aid & Attendance, start by reviewing the three key qualifications - a veteran, or their surviving spouse, must meet these requirements.
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Military Service: Veterans must be 65 years or older, have served a minimum of 90 days of active duty, with at least one of those days during a wartime period. Additionally, the veteran must have received an honorable or general discharge.
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Medical History: Veterans must have a non-military-related medical condition that requires help with daily living activities.
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Finances: Veterans net worth* $159,290 or less (the VA net worth limit set by Congress)? This calculation excludes your primary residence and vehicle.
*To determine your household net worth, add the total value of your personal property (excluding your home, vehicle, and most household furnishings), then subtract any outstanding debts.
Eligible Periods of War
Next, confirm that the veteran served during a VA-defined active duty wartime period.
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World War II: December 7, 1941 – December 31, 1946 (inclusive). For veterans in service on December 31, 1946, continuous service extending to July 26, 1947, is also considered World War II service.
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Korean Conflict: June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955 (inclusive).
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Vietnam Era: August 5, 1964 – May 7, 1975. For veterans with "boots on the ground" service in the Republic of Vietnam, the eligibility period is extended to November 1, 1955 – May 7, 1975.
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Persian Gulf War: August 2, 1990 – a date to be determined by Presidential proclamation or law.
Connecting Veterans to their Earned Benefits
Many veterans discharged without service-connected injuries or illnesses may not realize they could qualify for a pension through the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA).
For veterans who need help with daily living activities, their Pension or Compensation payments may include an additional "Aid & Attendance" benefit to provide further financial support.
What are Activities of Daily Living?
Activities of daily living are routine self-care activities that people tend to do every day without needing assistance. If a veteran requires assistance with these ADLs, then you could be qualified for the A&A pension.
There are eight basic activities of daily living (ADLs):
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Bathing
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Dressing
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Grooming
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Continence (using the toilet)
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Mobility
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Eating
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Medication Management
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Walking
Home care agencies offer aides to support individuals needing assistance with activities of daily living. Aid & Attendance supports wartime veterans and their spouses in covering costs for such assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to apply for Aid & Attendance benefits?
Our team will assist you in gathering all necessary documents required by the VA, including:
- Your DD-214 Military Discharge papers
- A copy of your current Social Security Award letter
- Proof of all income and assets
- Documentation of unreimbursed medical expenses
- A medical assessment confirming Homebound Status or Permanent Need for Aid & Attendance
How long does it take to be approved for benefits?
The time frame for approval depends on the workload of your region's pension center. Our firm will ensure your application is completed thoroughly and submitted under the VA’s Fully Developed Claim (FDC) process, which minimizes delays. Most applications are processed within 4–6 months.
What happens if my application is denied?
If your application is denied for unjustifiable reasons, you can file an appeal with the VA. Although we do not handle VA appeals, you will not be charged any fees for our life care planning services.
I already receive VA disability compensation. Am I still eligible?
You cannot receive both VA disability compensation and the Aid & Attendance pension. However, you can qualify for and receive the higher of the two benefits.
Why is life care planning important?
Life care planning helps preserve the value of your assets, minimize unnecessary taxes, and ensure your loved ones receive what you intended. It also protects your privacy and gives you control over healthcare and financial decisions in case of disability.
What constitutes my "estate"?
Your estate includes all your assets, such as real estate, business interests, personal property, cash, retirement accounts, and life insurance benefits.
What documents are included in my estate plan?
Our comprehensive estate plan includes:
- A Will
- Financial Powers of Attorney
- Healthcare Powers of Attorney
- An Advance Directive for end-of-life care
- A family estate report that offering a clear summary of your current plan
How does a life care plan benefit my loved ones?
A life care plan reduces the burden on your family by clearly outlining your wishes regarding finances, healthcare, and end-of-life decisions, preventing difficult choices during challenging times.
How do I start conversations with my family about my wishes?
My Veteran Solutions can can guide you in discussing your plans with your loved ones. We provide tools like document explanations, conversation starters, and scripts to help you navigate family dynamics.
I have no spouse or children. Do I still need life care planning?
Yes, life care planning ensures your assets go to the person or organization of your choice rather than being distributed by a court. Beneficiaries can include relatives, friends, or charitable organizations—anyone except the attorney drafting your will.