Eligibility of Spouse -- Veteran is in Good Health

[paulbdari]

My parents are planning to move into a community that provides independant, as well as assisted living.  My father is a veteran of WW II and is in good health. 

My mother, however, does need some assistance.

Are my parent's eligible for the Aid & Attendance benefit for my mother (even though my father is in very good health)?

[vetadmin]

Paul,

The veteran has to qualify for this pension in order for the spouse to qualify.

A veteran who is 100% a OK can apply if his wife’s medicals make them qualify financial – $1,291 is the max monthly award. 

Until your dad requires assistance, you cannot file on mom's needs alone.

[paulbdari]

Thank you so much for your very quick response.

[vetadmin]

You're welcome.

[Pheonix1111]

Dad is a WWII vet in good health and a decent income.  Mom has dementia and has just entered a nursing home.  We will apply Mom for Medicaid and will begin the spend down.  So technically Dad can afford the nursing home until Mom qualifies for Medicaid.  Is there any benefit to applying for GA&A if Dad can afford the bills through savings?  He could not afford the bills with his income since he also needs to support himself.

[vetadmin]

No.  The veteran has to qualify for this pension in order for the spouse to qualify.

A veteran who is 100% a OK can apply if his wife’s medicals make them qualify financial – $1,291 is the max monthly award. 

Until your dad requires assistance, you cannot file on mom's needs alone.