Updates to Veterans' Benefit Programs - HELP4TN Blog

In October 2018, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced a new rule that changes how veterans qualify for different need-based programs. The new rule changes requirements for a few programs that help veterans including the VA Pensions, the Aid and Attendance benefit, and other income-based help.

What programs are need-based?

The VA runs many programs for veterans, but these rules only impact those determined by your income and assets. In order to qualify, your total income and assets need to be under a certain amount. For these programs, the amount of financial help you receive is based on your current financial situation.

• VA Pensions benefit veterans and surviving spouses that are either disabled or 65 and older and also show financial need
• Aid & Attendance gives extra help to people who qualify for VA Pension and also suffer from serious physical health issues, live in certain types of nursing homes, or can’t get around on their own in daily life

What does this mean for veterans applying for these programs?

The VA changed the way your income and assets are added up to see if you qualify.  You can only have a certain amount of money to qualify for any of these income-based programs. This new rule affects how much money you can have to qualify for the programs.

It also affects what money or property is included when adding up your money. If you have had a lot of assets in the last three years, the rule changes how you can qualify for these programs as well. If you are applying for need-based help through the VA, a lawyer can help you look at your assets to see if you are eligible.

How can a lawyer help?

If you have questions about how these new rules change your eligibility, you can contact a lawyer. A lawyer can help determine how your personal situation fits into these new rules and see if you qualify. Sometimes, there are legal aid lawyers that can help for free. Visit www.help4tn.org to learn more about finding a lawyer in your area.

HELP4TN Blog posts are written by TALS staff attorneys. This blog is not legal advice, but it is legal information to help you learn about your rights. If you have questions about this blog or about your legal situation, you can talk to a lawyer for free at 1-844-HELP4TN (1-844-435-7486).