Yes. A married wartime Veteran like your father may qualify for what is called “pension plus aid and attendance”. This benefit is up to $2,124 per month, tax free for life. The benefit is available if certain health and financial conditions are met, although the rules are complicated. You should know that this benefit is available to help your father whether he is at home or in an assisted living community (or similar housing that provides care). This is a wonderful benefit to allow a wartime Veteran to stay at home a little longer, or to help pay for assisted living care. This benefit is also available to single Veterans and spouses of deceased Veterans. I have a short “preliminary worksheet” that you can complete and I would be glad to give you a free analysis as to whether he will qualify for benefits. If you would like our preliminary worksheet, please email me at [email protected] or call me at (517) 548-7400. I would be glad to prepare and send you an analysis of your situation. Our firm does this as a free service to all Veterans.
Glenn Matecun is a partner with the law firm of Matecun, Thomas & Olson, PLC in Howell. He is an attorney focusing on estate planning, elder law and senior Veterans’ benefits, and answers readers’ questions on legal matters affecting individuals, their families and their businesses. Listen to Glenn on Senior Law Radio, WMUZ 103.5 FM, every Saturday from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Email questions to [email protected], or if your question is urgent, call (517) 548-7400. Visit us at www.MichiganEstatePlans.com. The information in this column is not intended as legal advice.