If you have served the United States in one of the four branches of the military, you (and your family) may be entitled to veterans benefits that you don’t even know about. 

While there’s lots of paperwork, hoops to jump through, and conditions to be met, you may be able to supplement your monthly income with veterans aid and attendance.  There are survivorship benefits for your family as well.

The pension. 

For veterans who served during wartime, a monthly pension may be available.  Veterans need only have served during the US was at war.  There is no requirement to have actually served in the war.

Additional compensation.

For veterans who are disabled due to a service-related injury, you may be entitled to monthly compensation which is in addition to the pension mentioned immediately above.

Additional assistance.

Should the veteran need assistance with the activities of daily living, the pension may be increased assist in paying for care. 

Activities of daily living include:  transferring, toileting, eating, dressing, personal hygiene and grooming, dressing and undressing, and walking.

If the veteran’s spouse needs any assistance with the activities of daily living, the pension may be increased.

Death pension.

If the veteran’s surviving spouse and minor children have a very low income after you die, they may be entitled to a monthly pension.

Dependency and indemnity compensation benefits.

If the veteran dies of a service-related injury or while still serving, the family may be entitled to dependency and indemnity compensation benefits.

Burial benefits.

If certain conditions are met, your family may be entitled to funeral and burial benefits from the veterans administration.

Legacy APC, A Trusts & Estates Law Firm is a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys.