Many New Jersey families do not realize that a parent who served in the military may be eligible for a benefit that helps cover the cost of care at home. The VA Aid and Attendance benefit is one of the most overlooked sources of help, and understanding it early can make a real difference in how long a family can sustain care.
Key Takeaways
- Aid and Attendance is an added monthly amount paid on top of a VA pension for people who need help with daily activities.
- You must already receive a VA pension to qualify, plus meet at least one need based condition.
- Surviving spouses of eligible veterans may also qualify.
- The application requires a medical examiner to complete part of the paperwork, so start gathering documents early.
What Is Aid and Attendance?
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Aid and Attendance is an additional benefit added to a VA pension for people who need help with everyday tasks. It is meant to offset the cost of that help, whether it is provided at home, in assisted living, or in a nursing home. The money can be used toward in-home care, including the kind of support described on our personal care and companion care pages.
Who May Qualify
The VA states that you must already receive a VA pension and also meet at least one of these conditions:
- You need another person to help with daily activities such as bathing, feeding, or dressing.
- You must stay in bed, or spend much of the day in bed, because of illness.
- You are in a nursing home because of a loss of mental or physical abilities.
- Your eyesight is severely limited.
The VA pension itself has service and financial requirements, which is why many families work with a VA accredited representative or a local veterans service office to review eligibility before applying. Aid and Attendance cannot be received at the same time as the separate Housebound allowance.
How to Apply
You can apply online through the VA website, by mail using VA Form 21-2680, or in person at a VA regional office. A medical examiner must complete the examination section, so it helps to talk with your parent’s doctor early. If your loved one lives in a nursing home, an additional form is required.
The VA processes claims in the order received, so plan for the possibility that approval takes time. Many families begin care privately while the claim is pending rather than waiting.
Using the Benefit Alongside Private Pay Home Care
Aid and Attendance is generally paid to the veteran or surviving spouse, who can use it to help pay for the care they choose. It usually does not cover every hour a family needs, so it is best viewed as one part of a broader plan. Our guide to paying for home care in New Jersey compares VA benefits with long term care insurance and Medicaid, and our article on in-home care costs can help you estimate how many hours the benefit might support.
It also helps to know what Medicare will and will not cover. We explain that in Does Medicare Cover Home Care in New Jersey?
Where to Get Free Help in New Jersey
New Jersey veterans can get no cost help with benefit claims from county veterans service officers and accredited veterans service organizations. The NJ Division of Aging Services also lists programs that support older adults and caregivers statewide. Be cautious of anyone who charges a large fee to file a VA claim, since free accredited help is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a surviving spouse get Aid and Attendance?
In many cases, yes. Surviving spouses of eligible veterans may qualify for survivor benefits that include an Aid and Attendance amount. Check current requirements with the VA or an accredited representative.
Does Elm Home Care accept VA payments directly?
Elm Home Care is a private pay agency. Families can use Aid and Attendance funds they receive to help pay for care, and we are happy to provide the documentation you may need.
What if my parent is not sure they qualify?
Start by asking their doctor about the level of daily help they need, then contact a county veterans service office. They can review eligibility at no cost.
Let Us Help You Plan
If a veteran or surviving spouse in your family needs help at home, we would be glad to talk through care options with you. Request a free consultation or call (201) 374-6434, Monday through Sunday, 8am to 6pm.