How to Get Aid and Attendance Approval: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re a veteran or the surviving spouse of a veteran who needs help with the cost of long-term care, you may qualify for Aid and Attendance (A&A). A&A is a benefit that can provide you with a monthly payment to cover the cost of care in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or even in your own home.
Getting Started
The first step to getting A&A approval is to file a claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). You can do this online, by mail, or in person at your local VA office.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for A&A, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a veteran who served on active duty for at least 90 days, or you must be the surviving spouse of a veteran who met this requirement.
- You must have a discharge from the military that is not dishonorable.
- You must be 65 years old or older, or you must be under 65 and have a disability that makes you unable to work.
- You must need help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, or transferring.
- Your income and assets must be within certain limits.
How to File a Claim
To file a claim for A&A, you will need to complete the following forms:
- VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits
- VA Form 21-22-1021, Statement in Support of Claim for Aid and Attendance
You can download these forms from the VA website or you can get them from your local VA office.
Once you have completed the forms, you will need to submit them to the VA. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at your local VA office.
The Review Process
Once you have submitted your claim, the VA will review it to determine if you are eligible for A&A. The VA will consider the following factors:
- Your military service record
- Your medical records
- Your financial information
The VA will also interview you to assess your need for help with ADLs.
If Your Claim is Approved
If your claim is approved, the VA will send you a letter that explains your benefits. You will also receive a monthly payment that you can use to cover the cost of your long-term care.
If Your Claim is Denied
If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. You will have one year from the date of the denial to file an appeal.
Conclusion
If you are a veteran who needs help with the cost of long-term care, you may qualify for A&A. To learn more about A&A and how to file a claim, please visit the VA website or contact your local VA office.
FAQ about Aid and Attendance Approval
What is Aid and Attendance (A&A)?
- A&A is a monthly pension benefit paid to eligible veterans and their surviving spouses who need help with activities of daily living (ADLs) or have a disability that prevents them from working.
Who is eligible for A&A?
- Veterans who served during wartime, and their surviving spouses are eligible if they meet certain age, income, and asset limits. They must also require assistance with ADLs or have a disability that prevents them from working.
What are the ADLs?
- The ADLs are eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring (getting in and out of bed or chairs), and continence.
What is the P-A-S guidelines?
- The P-A-S guidelines are the criteria the VA uses to determine if a veteran or surviving spouse needs assistance with ADLs.
How do I apply for A&A?
- You can apply for A&A by submitting an Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits (VA Form 21-526EZ) to the VA.
What documentation is required for A&A?
- You will need to provide documentation of your veteran status, income, assets, and a medical report that verifies your need for assistance with ADLs.
How long does it take to get approved for A&A?
- The VA typically takes 60-90 days to process an A&A application.
What is the average A&A benefit amount?
- The average A&A benefit amount is $1,881 per month.
Can I receive A&A if I am receiving other benefits?
- Yes, you can receive A&A in addition to other benefits such as Social Security retirement benefits or disability compensation.
How do I appeal an A&A denial?
- You can appeal an A&A denial by submitting a Statement of Disagreement (VA Form 21-0995) to the VA.
