Just Beginning the process - Advice needed

[JGK]

Thanks in advance for the help and the forum.  A couple of quick questions:  I have what I think is a complete package:  DD214, Social Security Benefit Ltr, Bank Statements for 120 days (there are no other resources),  VA Form 21-2680, Statement from the Assisted Living Facility, Dr Records, Cover letter describing the situation and asking it to be expedited - My dad is 82 and very few resources. We filed the Informal Claim, The local VA office provided a VA Pension Worksheet that documents his income (Only SSN for 950 a month), VA Form 21-0845 3rd Party Disclosure.  Do we need any other documents - the local office provided a checklist but I don't see where I can document his other medical expenses.  the ALF shows $2425 a month - Do we need the VA Form 21-8416? 

Anything else that we should provide?  Also they recommended we meet woth a local VA Service Officer but the first appt is almost a month away.  My dad will exhaust every dollar in his savings to cover the gap between the ALF costs and SSN in 7 months.  SHould we wait for appt - We asked to get in with any cancellation. 

Any help with things we should know to get it right the first time would be greatly appreciated.  THANKS !!!! 

[AnnieN]

Hi JGK.  When I started this process I consulted first with a clueless Veteran Service Officer who insisted my parent, the Vet, would not qualify for A&A.  He called his contact in Seattle, was put straight, then told us, "Oh, I feel terrible.  I turned away three veterans last week".  Following this website's advice, I did the complete application and my parent received benefits in four months.  Here's a link to an interesting discussion on VSO's and Aid and Attendance: http://veteranaid.org/forums/index.php/topic,1081.msg4008.html#msg4008.

I can't help with the forms question, but there is a useful search function in the upper right hand corner that might help.  Good luck to you.  Annie