Phoenix
The Aid and Attendance (A&A) program is a benefit offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that provides financial assistance to eligible veterans and their spouses or surviving spouses who require the aid and attendance of another person or are housebound due to a disability. This program is not specific to Arizona; it is a federal program available to eligible veterans and their families across the United States.
To qualify for the Aid and Attendance program, veterans or their surviving spouses must meet certain eligibility criteria, including:
Military Service: The veteran must have served at least 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during a period of wartime. The specific wartime periods are defined by the VA.
Disability: The veteran or surviving spouse must have a medical condition that requires the regular assistance of another person with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, feeding, or mobility. Additionally, those who are housebound due to a disability may also qualify.
Income and Asset Limits: There are income and asset limits that applicants must meet to be eligible for A&A benefits. These limits may change annually and vary depending on the applicant’s marital status and other factors.
Medical Documentation: Applicants must provide medical documentation from a healthcare provider that confirms the need for aid and attendance or being housebound.
Application Process: To apply for the Aid and Attendance program, veterans or their surviving spouses should contact their local VA regional office or VA healthcare facility. The application process can involve submitting various forms and supporting documentation.
Benefit Amount: The A&A program provides additional financial assistance on top of the basic VA pension. The exact benefit amount depends on the veteran’s or surviving spouse’s income and medical needs.
It’s important to note that eligibility criteria and benefit amounts may change over time, so it’s advisable to check with the VA or a Veterans Service Officer for the most up-to-date information and assistance with the application process. Additionally, there are accredited veterans service organizations that can help veterans and their families navigate the VA benefits system and provide assistance in applying for programs like Aid and Attendance.