Frequently Asked Questions
Finding out if you’re eligible for the VA pension, the application process, and meeting deadlines can all be a confusing and overwhelming process—especially when you’re dealing with medical costs and financial instability.
Veterans Ally helps veterans like you begin the application process. We keep you up to date on the status of your application, answer questions, and help you set up your funds to protect your financial future.
Discover more below.
Meet Billy
Billy bravely served our country during the Vietnam War.
Watch Billy’s story below to learn more about his journey to accessing the benefits he earned during his service.
Billy, a 74-year-old Vietnam veteran, was able to cover medical costs with his VA pension.
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What documents do I need to apply for Aid & Attendance Benefits?
Our firm will work with you to collect all documents and information required by the VA.
Some documents include:- Your DD-214 Military Discharge papers
- A copy of your current Social Security Award letter
- Proof of all income and assets
- Proof of any medical expenses not reimbursed by insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid
- Examination of Homebound Status or Permanent Need for Aid & Attendance
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How long will it take to be approved for benefits?
The workload at your region’s pension center will determine how quickly your application is processed. Our firm will send a carefully completed application with no missing forms or documents to speed up the process. This is called the VA’s Fully Developed Claim [FDC] process. The application approval process is different for everyone but in most cases, you can expect it to take between 4-6 months from the submitted date to approval.
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What happens if I am turned down for Aid & Attendance Benefits?
If you’re turned down for Aid & Attendance benefits for an unjustifiable reason, you can file an appeal with the VA. Our firm does not handle VA appeals; however, you will not owe us any fees for life care planning services.
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I already receive VA disability compensation; am I still eligible?
Veterans cannot receive both VA Disability compensation and VA Aid and Attendance Pension. However, they can receive the higher benefit of the two programs.
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Why do I need life care planning?
By planning for the transfer of your assets you can preserve their value, reduce unnecessary taxes and expenses, and ensure your loved ones receive what you intended them to receive. A life care plan can also protect your privacy and gives you control over your assets and healthcare decisions if you were to become disabled.
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What makes up my “estate”?
Your estate consists of all the assets you possess such as real estate, interest in a business, personal property, cash, retirement plans and IRA, and life insurance benefits.
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What documents will I receive in my estate plan?
Our estate plan includes all the documents you will need to handle your affairs both now and in the future. Regular review of your plan helps ensure it reflects your current wishes.
These documents include:- A Will
- Financial Powers of Attorney
- Healthcare Powers of Attorney
- Advance Directive for end-of-life care
- A family estate report that provides a visual snapshot of your current estate plan for you and your family to review.
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What can a life care plan do for my loved ones?
A life care plan can help alleviate the burden of your family members having to make difficult decisions regarding your finances, health, and end of life care.
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How do I talk to my family about my wishes?
Vet Ally Law can help you start talking to your loved ones about your plan by explaining the documents common in estate planning and providing scripts and conversation-starters to help navigate family dynamics.
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I have no spouse or children; do I still need life care planning?
Rather than let a court decide, people without a spouse or descendants may designate a beneficiary to inherit their assets. It can be a relative, friend, or charitable organization anyone except the attorney who drafted your will.
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About Us
77 Sugar Creek Center Blvd. Suite 600 Sugar Land, TX 77478
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