Also, what if I can't find Dad's service records? I've just begun learning about Aid and Attendance benefits. Things I've read mention long term care, in home care, etc., but no mention of adult day health care, which is what we need the most right now. Are there restrictions on its use? Mom's house is falling apart around us and has termites, and could use some safety revamps, all things we can't begin to afford right now. Can this benefit be used for home repair/maintenance?
Regarding paperwork, my parents were terrible at keeping records. I suspect I won't be able to find any of Dad's service and discharge records. Will that keep us from being eligible for these benefits?
There are actually three levels of Pension a veteran or surviving spouse may be eligible for: Basic, Housebound, and Aid and Attendance (the highest award). Whereas receiving Housebound and Aid and Attendance is predicated on the claimant having "unreimbursed medical expenses" only the amount that is received as "Basic" pension ($1,037 per month in 2013 for a single veteran) can be used for other than medical expenses such as home repair that is necessary for the health, maintenance, or welfare of the claimant.
Military separation documents are obtained from the National Archives. Here is the web address to download the requisite form:
http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/standard-form-180.html
Before you take the advice of hiring an expensive elder law attorney or private firm to assist you, contact a County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO) who will look at your case for no charge. You can find a CVSO here:
http://nacvso.org/
Your initial goal is to make sure that your father qualifies from both a health and financial perspective. Do not let an application be filed until you are sure it will be approved. A good CVSO will help you make that determination. If over-resourced from an asset perspective you may wish to consult a professional on the best way to cure this problem.
Your second goal is to make sure you have all of the documentation required on the front end. What most often causes delays is an incomplete application or improper or insufficient evidence to substantiate the claim (income and expense documentation in particular).
The VA now has an expedited program for applications that are thorough and COMPLETE. Contacting a congressmen or senator before you have even filed an application will just make everyone angry.
Make sure that your initial application is complete. Don't leave anything out. The VA looks for missing info & anything they can question & thus delay the process.
My mom's application was submitted on November 2011 & we just got the approval last week. 2011 is not a typo it took 1 year 4 months to get the approval & only then because I personally met with staff of my congressman's office & they intervened with the VA.
Yes, the benefit can be used for adult day care & any other expenses that provide care for your mother. Be sure to keep receipts & detailed records of everything as the VA will want to review your records annually.
You will need your dad's service records, but you can call VA & get that info.