Next step, please

[Gerri]

I found this forum 2 years ago, when starting the application for A&A Pension for my mom.  The members of this forum were so helpful and knowledgeable at that time and I'm turning to you again with new questions.  The application finally made it to St. Paul and after several communications back and forth, I received notification that my mother is not eligible, at this time, because of her cash assets.  I don't have any argument with their reason for denial, and was expecting that response.  Now I need to know, as her cash declines (her live-in care runs $4,000/month), at what point would you suggest I re-submit a claim for her?  She'll hit around $80,000 sometime next spring.  I received Forms 21-0158-1 (Eligibility Verification Report) and 21-8049 (Request for Details of Expenses) with the letter.  Do I submit both of these forms, with a cover letter asking for a review, and would I use the term "appeal" in the request?  Should I include an updated verification of her health from her physician or anything else?  I plan to re-submit next April or May, and want to be sure I do this correctly.   Finally, Mom is adamant about staying in her home (she's 91 now) and I'm wondering if getting her a reverse mortgage (an equity line to draw from) will further affect her eligibility for the A&A pension.  Looking forward to any guidance in these matters.  Thank you in advance

[Fit2009]

Reverse mortgage is no problem as withdrawals are not seen as income - however, if she has too many assets for A&A, why would she need to withdrawl from the House equity?  I would recommend informing the VA everytime her assets decline by $5-10K so you get the award as soon as she is eligible.