Dusty, I'm familiar with the area in which you live. You have 2 good options:
1. Make an appointment with the Oakland County VA office. It's located in the Oakland County Courthouse complex, a bit of a hike, but it's staffed by people who know how to start a Veteran's application for benefits.
If you're not familiar with it, post back and I'll provide enough info to get you there.
2. Make an appointment at the Ann Arbor VA; also a hike, but there are more resources there to get you started, including VFW (and I believe the American Legion) on either the 5th or 6th floor. They can also help you get started.
Both options are free. You shouldn't have to pay, and last time I checked the appropriate statute, charging for assistance was illegal.
You'll need the deceased's husbands DD-214; if you don't have it though, the service officers can help you obtain it. The information to complete will include financial info, so you'll also have to obtain that for your mother.
Once she's enrolled and assuming she's eligible, ask her team's caseworker to help guide you through the benefits available to caregivers.
Because you are in MI you should really contact a certified elder law attorney in your area. www.nelf.org can help you find one. MI is so different than any other state it really is worth the money to make sure that she is getting everything she qualifies for.
Aid is available for her. I know someone who just got it for her MIL, widow of Vietnam vet. Best to get an attorney who specializes in VA benefits. Paperwork is a pain and the process is daunting.
Ask to speak to a VSO (Veteran's Service Officer) at a Vet Center, NOT a VA. If the deceased husband was signed up and received VA services, family can contact a social worker at the CLC (nursing home) who is most likely to know details.
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1. Make an appointment with the Oakland County VA office. It's located in the Oakland County Courthouse complex, a bit of a hike, but it's staffed by people who know how to start a Veteran's application for benefits.
If you're not familiar with it, post back and I'll provide enough info to get you there.
2. Make an appointment at the Ann Arbor VA; also a hike, but there are more resources there to get you started, including VFW (and I believe the American Legion) on either the 5th or 6th floor. They can also help you get started.
Both options are free. You shouldn't have to pay, and last time I checked the appropriate statute, charging for assistance was illegal.
You'll need the deceased's husbands DD-214; if you don't have it though, the service officers can help you obtain it. The information to complete will include financial info, so you'll also have to obtain that for your mother.
Once she's enrolled and assuming she's eligible, ask her team's caseworker to help guide you through the benefits available to caregivers.
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