Veterans: Don't Miss Out On Benefits
Published: Fri, 01/16/15
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Veterans: Don't Miss Out On BenefitsIf you cannot view the image below, please read the article on our blog.
 Q. My 72-year old father, Phil, served during the Vietnam War, and suffers from Parkinson's Disease and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). My mother, Ruth, is his caregiver. They live on Social Security checks and his pension. In my opinion, there have to be more benefits that they can take advantage of, especially for an honorably-discharged retired veteran and his spouse. If I am correct, can you help me lead them in the right direction about benefits they may be missing out on? Thank you for your help!
A. Yes, you are correct. Currently, there are more than 25 million veterans, like your father, who served our country during wartime and may be eligible for some form of veteran's benefits. However, many veterans aren't aware of, or taking advantage of, the benefits available to them and their spouses.
In fact, NPR (along with seven public radio stations around the country) recently chronicled the lives of America's retired military and released a three-part series about veterans benefits. The project, "Back at Base," examines how many veterans and their families are missing out on the benefits for which they are entitled because they don't know about them or do not understand them. The story offers ways to navigate the complex processes involved in applying for benefits.
As in the NPR story, at the Farr Law Firm, our goal is to provide information about programs that veterans and their families may be entitled to. Below are some examples:
Medical Benefits
The VA operates the nation's largest healthcare system, with more than 1700 hospitals and clinics, caring for more than 6.3 million veterans annually. Those who qualify based on household income and assets receive free care. Others use their VA benefits to supplement private health insurance and cover co-payments required with private policies.
In recent years, mental health benefits for veterans have been expanded. While the system is not perfect, the VA does provide a significant healthcare benefit that should not be overlooked.
Veteran's Aid and Attendance
One particular benefit, called a Special Pension benefit (also called Veterans Aid and Attendance), can provide more than $25,000 annually for an eligible married veteran, more than $21,000 annually for a single veteran, and over $13,000 annually for the surviving spouse of a qualified veteran. (Please visit our website to see the newly released 2015 figures.)Eligibility criteria includes:
Burial and Memorial Benefits
The Veterans Administration offers a number of burial and memorial benefits to veterans who were honorably discharged, as follows:
Applying for veteran's benefits, such as Veteran's Aid and Attendance, can be confusing and arduous. Here at the Farr Law Firm, we work with veterans and their spouses to evaluate whether they qualify for the Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefit and/or Medicaid, and we deal with all the paperwork. As an Accredited Attorney with the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, I understand both the Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefit and the Medicaid program and the interaction between both benefit programs. Please call us in Fairfax at 703-691-1888, in Fredericksburg at 540-479-1435, in Rockville, MD at 301-519-8041, or in Washington, DC at 202-587-2797 to make an appointment for a no-cost consultation.
P.S. Another benefit of being a veteran is a 15% discount off all services at the Farr Law Firm. We hope to see your family soon!
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Critter Corner: Is Tai Chi for Me? Dear Ernie and Jannette,
My neighbor, Harry, is 80 years old and has gotten really into Tai Chi. He says it helps him stay fit, maintain balance, and avoid falls. I am 77, have arthritis and high blood pressure, and am not sure if Tai Chi is for me. Before I sign up, do you have an opinion on whether Tai Chi is worthwhile for someone like me?
Thanks,
Nasure Tychee
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Dear Nasure,
Developed in China more than 2,000 years ago, Tai Chi, as it is practiced in the west today, is similar to yoga (but done with more continual motion) and meditation combined. It is a gentle form of meditative exercise that features slow and focused movements along with deep breathing. Researchers have found that Tai Chi provides a great physical and mental workout and can benefit seniors in a number of ways including:
If you want to see a bit of what Tai Chi is like, watch this video. But like most things, seeing is very different from doing. So if you're interested, give it a try. Your body and mind may thank you.
Ribbit up!
Ernie and Jannette
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