If you have served in the United States military and want to move into an assisted living community, your VA benefits can help mitigate the costs. The VA offers long-term care services for retired military personnel, allowing them to receive what they need. Learn more about eligibility factors here, as well as how to apply. 

How to Use VA Benefits to Pay for Assisted Living

Increased Allowance Options

The Department of Veterans Affairs offers assisted living benefits that are added to monthly pensions for qualifying individuals. The Aid & Attendance benefit provides up to $8,796 annually for veterans without dependents who require assistance with daily living tasks, such as getting dressed, preparing meals, bathing, and cleaning their homes. Veterans with physical or mental disabilities are eligible for this benefit, including those with limited vision, as are their surviving spouses. 

Housebound is the other VA benefit applicable to senior living costs. Those who qualify for this benefit cannot receive the Aid & Attendance benefit or vice-versa. The Housebound benefit provides up to $2,923 annually on top of the regular pension and is available to veterans with permanent disabilities who live at home most of the time. Surviving spouses are also eligible. 

Applying for Your Benefits 

To apply for either benefit, complete and mail VA Form 21-2680 or the Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance. Send the form to your state’s VA pension management center, which you can search for on the official website. 

Include applicable information with your form, such as a doctor’s letter stating your need for aid. You can also add details about the challenges you face that call for assistance, like problems preparing meals because of limited mobility. 

To see how much you will receive from your selected benefit, check the latest VA pension rates. Should you have more questions about your benefits, you can always visit your local Aging and Disability Resource Center. 

If you are still looking for a vibrant assisted living community, consider Great Lakes Senior Living. Featuring locations in Milford, Waterford, and Beloit, WI, these centers offer group fitness classes, game nights, and live musical entertainment. Call (608) 868-3000 for Milton, (608) 312-2370 for Beloit, or (262) 534-4800 for Waterford, or send a message online today. Like the Facebook page for the latest updates.