Veteran's Guide To Benefits for Service Related Disabilities

The word veteran holds special meaning for many. Derived from the Latin word vetus, which signifies that something is old, a veteran is someone who has experience in a certain field or area. Veterans that have served in the U.S. military are worthy of our respect as they have placed their lives on the line to defend the freedoms our country holds dear. When veterans return from service and face disabilities, they need community support and help more than ever. From government programs to the appreciation of those they encounter during their daily routine, veterans must know and feel in a tangible way, that they are appreciated, respected, and important.

House bound Pension

A pension consists of a monetary benefit that is paid to veterans that served during wartime, who are disabled, those that have little income, and those who are aged 65-years and over. Those who have extreme or severe disabilities may qualify for what is known as a house bound pension. A house bound pension is money that is paid in addition to the regularly monthly pension. Another benefit often paid to veterans with disabilities is the Aid and Attendance or A&A pension. It is important to understand that a veteran may not receive both an A&A and house bound pension simultaneously.

Aid and Attendance Benefit

Aid and Attendance benefits are distributed in addition to a regular monthly pension to those that qualify.  Some conditions that render a veteran eligible for Aid and Attendance benefits include when a disability requires a veteran obtain assistance to perform daily living chores, if the veteran is bedridden or requires the services of a convalescence home, if the veteran lives in or is a patient at a nursing home, and if the veteran is blind. Check with your local veteran’s administration office to determine whether you qualify.

Benefits for Spouses and Dependents of Veterans

Benefits for spouses and dependents of veterans vary and there are multiple benefits available. Those who have lost a spouse may qualify for a death pension, survivor’s and dependents’ educational assistance, medical, home loans, dependency indemnity compensation, bereavement counseling, life insurance, financial counseling, burial flags and burial benefits a spouse should consider upon the death of the veteran. Additionally, there is the TRICARE dental program, the GI Bill, a death gratuity and more. Spouses and dependents will need to fill out the necessary forms in order to determine eligibility. 

Long Term Care

Those who have severe disabilities may find that it is difficult to take care of their daily needs. If this occurs, the veteran may need to arrange for their long-term care. Long-term care programs may include a nursing home, hospice, and more. There are different requirements that must be met in order to qualify for long-term care benefits. Current income level combined with the degree of disability will determine approval.

State Veterans Homes

State Veterans homes are designed to ensure that veterans have a place to live when they can no longer take care of themselves. There are admission requirements that must be met, and the homes are only open to veterans that have been honorably discharged. Additionally, veterans will need to have established residency in the state where the home is locate in order to be eligible. 

For More Assistance

Those in need of further assistance will find that the United States Department of Veterans Affairs is a great place to begin looking for help. You may look up each Veterans Affairs office by state or territory in the links below. Those with questions regarding VA Benefits may contact their local office or call the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at 1-800-827-1000. Beneficiaries in receipt of Pension Benefits with questions may call 1-800-294-6380 for assistance.