Many veterans and surviving spouses can receive assistance to pay for in-home care through a little known pension through the Veterans Adminstration called Aid & Attendance.  The Aid and Attendance (A&A) Pension provides benefits for veterans and surviving spouses who require the regular attendance of another person to assist in eating, bathing, dressing and toileting.  It also includes individuals who are blind or are a patient in a nursing home because of mental or physical incapacity. Assisted care in an assisting living facility also qualifies.

The A&A Pension can provide up to $1,632 per month to a veteran, $1,055 per month to a surviving spouse, or $1,949 per month to a couple depending on eligibilty.

Eligibility must be proven by filing the proper Veterans Application for Pension or Compensation. (Form 21-534 surviving spouse) (Form 21-526 Veteran). This application will require a copy of DD-214 or separation papers, a Medical Evaluation from a physician, current medical issues, net worth limitations, and net income, along with out-of-pocket Medical Expenses.

For more information on this benefit, please visit http://veteranaid.org/.  Here you will find a step by step guide on how to apply for this pension.