Tomlin Benefit Planning Home Page

Who Pays For Long Term Care? #3, the VA

Posted by Jeff on August 17, 2011

The Veteran’s Administration has two branches which pay for care. VHA is very limited. VBA offers a supplemental pension benefit for those who qualify. VBA offer aid to a much broader demographic, compared to VHA. Eligibility has similarities to Medicaid (5 requirements):
1) war time era service
2) non-residence assets (typically must be below $80,000)
3) family income
4) medical need of claimant
5) family medical expenses
I think this is better than Medicaid because it’s an earned pension benefit: if you receive benefits, it’s up to you to decide how to use the funds. Supplemental pension benefits range about $1000-$2000 per month.
This is a complex program and my knowledge is limited. In addition to contacting the VA, check with your state or county. The state or county government may have created positions so that their employees can help explain these benefits & provide answers & assistance.