Applying For Aid And Attendance: Do’s And Don’ts

Applying for Aid and Attendance benefits can be a confusing and time consuming process. The VA is actually improving their turn-around time on new claims but the red-tape still exists. This article should help you properly complete a claim for VA Aid and Attendance pension benefits. However, I first recommend making sure you qualify for […]

VA Form 21-686c — Status of Dependents

VA Form 21-686c is the Declaration of Status of Dependents Form.  Unlike many of the forms I write about, VA Form 21-686c is used for aid and attendance pension benefits and compensation benefits. The 686c is an important form.  Veterans receive more money from the Department of Veterans Affairs if they have dependents.  The more […]

Pennsylvania Irrevocable Trust

A Pennsylvania Irrevocable Trust can come in many different shapes and sizes.  Depending on the creator’s goals and specific situation, a Pennsylvania Irrevocable Trust can be drafted in a variety of ways.  The specific language of the trust will depend on a variety of circumstances that are unique to the person creating the trust. This […]

The VA’s New Definition Of Custodial Care

As some of my loyal readers know, I regularly peruse the VA’s Web Automated Reference Material System. WARMS, as I affectionately call it, houses VA employee manuals. These manuals direct VA employees on how to properly adjudicate claims. WARMS is updated regularly and provides valuable insight into how the VA should be operating on any given […]

BVA OR DRO APPEAL?

The Department of Veterans Affairs makes many mistakes when deciding benefits claims.  The numbers are staggering.  And while the VA asserts that errors are in decline, a claimant should always be prepared to receive a denial letter.  Denial letters are, unfortunately, part and parcel of dealing with the VA. Given that a claimant stands a […]

Special Monthly Pension With Aid And Attendance

Detailed and well researched studies show that one reason people don’t like bureaucrats, doctors, and lawyers is because these professionals use jargon and complicated industry speak.  While maybe a surprise to these well educated professionals, most people prefer clear explanations that use everyday language to explain a concept.  If you can’t explain something to a […]