Veterans' Benefits Attorney in Grand Rapids, MI
Expert Assistance With Aid and Attendance
What Is Aid And Attendance?
Aid and Attendance (A&A) is a VA pension benefit that provides monthly financial assistance to veterans and surviving spouses who need help with routine daily care. This program is designed to help cover the cost of care, whether provided at home or in a facility. The maximum monthly benefits as of 2025 are:
Married Couple: $3,740
(Two Veterans Receiving A&A)
Veteran and Spouse or Dependent: $2,795
Single Veteran: $2,538
Surviving Spouse of Veteran: $1,515
The Law Offices of David E. Waterstradt assists veterans in Grand Rapids, MI, with determining eligibility and completing applications for A&A benefits.
Determining Eligibility for A&A
To qualify for VA benefits, applicants must meet specific criteria related to service history, medical needs, income, and assets. Each application should clearly demonstrate eligibility in all areas.
Disability Requirement
Veterans who are 65 or older and require assistance with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, eating, or toileting, may be eligible. Those who are bedridden or have severe vision loss may also qualify.
Aid and Attendance benefits can be used to help pay for care in a facility or at home. Care may be provided by a professional caregiver or a qualifying family member or housemate, excluding a spouse. This care must be recommended by a healthcare provider.
A formal care contract is also required. This agreement outlines the care services provided and the compensation, which must align with fair local rates. Our office helps ensure this documentation is properly prepared to avoid delays in processing.
Service Requirements
Veterans do not need combat experience, overseas experience, or a service-related disability to qualify. However, the VA requires a minimum of 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during a designated wartime period, and an honorable discharge. Surviving spouses of qualifying veterans may also be eligible for benefits.
Official Declared Wartime Periods as Determined by Congress
World War II:
December 7, 1941 - December 31, 1946
Vietnam War:
August 5, 1964 - May 7, 1975
Begin February 28 1961 if you served in Vietnam
Korean War:
June 27, 1950 - January 31, 1955
Persian Gulf War:
August 2, 1990 - Date not yet determined
Frequently Asked Questions About Aid & Attendance
What Expenses Does A&A Help With?
A&A benefits help cover the cost of assistance with daily activities such as bathing, eating, medication management, and toileting. Care may be provided at home or in a facility.
Is a Care Contract Required to Apply?
Yes, the VA requires a written agreement that defines the services to be provided, as well as the agreed-upon compensation, which must align with local rates. This applies to both family members and professional caretakers.
Are Surviving Spouses Eligible for Aid and Attendance?
Yes; however, the VA evaluates spouses separately. They consider care needs, the veteran’s service record, and financial qualifications.
Is Overseas or Combat Service Required for Eligibility?
Veterans must meet active-duty, discharge, and wartime requirements, but combat and overseas experience are not required.
Do I Need an Attorney to Apply for VA Benefits?
While an attorney is not required, legal assistance can help ensure proper asset structuring and accurate application preparation.
What Types of Care Qualify for Assistance?
Any medically necessary care provided by a caregiver, household member, or family member other than a spouse qualifies for financial assistance. This applies to both home care and care in a facility.
Income & Asset Eligibility
Aid and Attendance is need-based, so the VA assesses whether an applicant could reasonably pay for care using their income and assets. As of 2018, total countable assets must be less than $130,773, including current-year income. Primary residences and vehicles are excluded from this total.
When Assets Exceed the Limit for Qualification
If your assets are slightly above the limit, certain adjustments can help you qualify in the near future. However, the VA enforces a three-year look-back period that may penalize recent asset transfers.
For applicants with asset levels significantly higher than the limit, proactive planning is often necessary. Gifting assets outright is generally discouraged, as it may expose those assets to creditors and create complications if recovery becomes necessary.
An irrevocable trust may provide a more effective solution when properly structured under VA guidelines. The Law Offices of David E. Waterstradt helps veterans in Grand Rapids, MI, develop trust strategies that support Aid and Attendance eligibility while preserving Medicaid planning options.
Veterans Benefits Application Assistance in Grand Rapids
Veterans and surviving spouses in Grand Rapids, MI, may qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits, but the process can feel stressful. The Law Offices of David E. Waterstradt provides experienced assistance to help minimize delays and avoid denials. We assist with eligibility evaluation, asset planning, and documentation preparation to support a successful application.
If you need help applying for veterans benefits in Grand Rapids, MI, contact the Law Offices of David E. Waterstradt today.