The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has an entitlement program to help qualified veterans pay for the costs of long term care. Monthly benefits up to

• $1,949 for veteran with spouse
• $1,644 for a single veteran
• $1,291 for a veteran’s spouse
• $1,056 for a surviving spouse

This is a tax-free benefit paid directly to the qualified veteran. The benefit amount paid is available in addition to any other existing resources the applicant uses to pay for their care.

This special entitlement program is designed to help veterans and/or their spouses or surviving spouses receive financial support necessary to ensure their continuing care in their own home or in assisted living or in nursing home setting. Benefits may also be available for house- bound individuals that require daily assistance to maintain their health, dignity, and safety.

Eligibility Requirements

1. Veteran must have served at least 90 days of active duty, with at least one day served during a time of war.

2. Assets – Many variables require each case to be evaluated on an individual basis regarding the level of assets applicant may have.

3. Financial need – In general, there must be less income each year than the cost of care provided, including the monthly charges by an in-home care provider, assisted living or nursing facility.

4. Medical diagnosis – There must be a medical reason why you cannot live independently and need regular assistance and care with ADL’s (Activities of Daily Living) such as bathing, dressing, toileting or mental incapacitation such as dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease.