Veterans' Benefits Attorney in Norton Shores, MI
Over 30 Years of Elder Law Experience Assisting Veterans with A&A
What Is Aid and Attendance?
The Aid and Attendance program provides monthly financial assistance to veterans and surviving spouses who need help with everyday care. This benefit is designed to offset the cost of long-term care services, whether at home or in a facility. As of 2025, the maximum monthly benefit amounts include:
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
At the Law Offices of David E. Waterstradt, we help individuals in Norton Shores, MI, understand whether they qualify and assist with each step of the application process.
Who Qualifies for Aid and Attendance?
Eligibility for VA benefits is based on several factors, including service history, need for aid, income, and assets. Each application must clearly show that these requirements are met.
Disability Requirement
Veterans who are 65 or older and require assistance with daily living, such as bathing, dressing, eating, or mobility, may qualify. Veterans who are bedridden or have significant visual impairment may also be eligible.
These benefits help cover care provided in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, or at home. Care may be delivered by a professional caregiver or a qualifying family member or housemate (excluding a spouse). However, care services must be recommended by a healthcare professional.
A written care contract is also required as part of the application. This document outlines the services being provided and the agreed-upon compensation, which must align with fair local rates. Properly preparing this agreement is important to avoid delays in your application, and our team can assist with that process.
Service Requirements
Combat or overseas service is not required to qualify for Aid and Attendance. However, the VA does require at least 90 days of active duty, including at least one day falling within a recognized wartime period, and an honorable discharge. If a veteran meets these requirements, their surviving spouse may also be eligible to apply.
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
Common Questions About Veterans Benefits
What Expenses Does A&A Assist With?
Aid and Attendance helps pay for assistance with daily activities such as bathing, eating, and medication management, whether provided in a home setting or a care facility. This applies to both professional care and care from a family member or housemate.
Is a Care Contract Required by the VA?
Yes, the VA requires a care contract that clearly defines services and compensation at fair local rates. This applies regardless of whether the caregiver is a healthcare worker or a family member.
Can a Surviving Spouse Receive A&A?
Surviving spouses can receive A&A, but their applications are evaluated separately. Eligibility is based on care needs, the veteran’s service record, and financial factors.
Does Aid and Attendance Require Overseas or Combat Service?
No, veterans who did not serve overseas or in combat can still qualify for Aid and Attendance as long as they meet the VA’s requirements.
Is Legal Assistance Necessary to Apply for Veterans Benefits?
You are not required to have an attorney to apply for veterans benefits, but legal assistance can help you avoid delays in processing your application due to errors or missing information.
What Types of Care Qualify for Aid and Attendance?
Any medically necessary care provided by a professional caregiver, household member, or family member (excluding a spouse), either at home or in a facility, qualifies for benefits.
Income and Asset Requirements for A&A in Norton Shores
Aid and Attendance is a needs-based benefit, which means the VA considers a veteran’s ability to finance care needs independently. As of 2018, veterans must have less than $130,773 in countable assets, including current income, to qualify for A&A. Certain assets, such as your home and car, do not count toward this total. If your assets are slightly above the limit, adjustments may help you qualify in the near future.
What if your assets exceed the requirement?
Strategic planning is important to support eligibility for Aid and Attendance. Direct gifting is not generally recommended, as it can expose assets to creditors and create complications if funds need to be recovered later. The VA also has a three-year look-back rule, which means you could be penalized for any gifts made within the last three years before applying.
An irrevocable trust may be a more effective option when structured properly. Our firm helps veterans in Norton Shores, MI, create trusts that support Aid and Attendance eligibility while also preserving Medicaid planning options.
Assistance with A&A Application for Norton Shores Veterans
Veterans and surviving spouses in Norton Shores, MI, may be eligible for Aid and Attendance benefits, but the application process can be complicated and stressful. The Law Offices of David E. Waterstradt provides assistance to help avoid delays, reduce the risk of denial, and ensure all requirements are properly addressed. We can evaluate your eligibility, help structure your assets, and prepare documentation so you can feel confident in your application.
If you need help applying for veterans benefits in Norton Shores, MI, contact the Law Offices of David E. Waterstradt today.