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Are VA Benefits for Assisted Living Retroactive?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
With over a decade of dedicated experience, Andrea Miller boasts an extensive background in healthcare writing and editing. Her expertise spans various facets of the healthcare industry, with a particular focus on nursing, senior care, Alzheimer’s disease, and public health. Andrea has also contributed her editorial talents to reputable publishers in the Philadelphia region, complementing her extensive freelance work.
Reviewed by:
Gene Altaffer has a Masters in Gerontology from the University of Southern California and has worked in many avenues along the continuum of long-term care, assisting thousands of clients and their families since 1995. He also sold long-term care insurance from numerous carriers while also assisting families with retirement planning. Gene helps seniors navigate their Medicare plans, ensuring they understand their benefits and options.
How does the VA assign an effective date for your claim?
The VA uses the date it receives your disability claim as the effective date. However, to receive retroactive pay, you must file your claim within a year of discharge for a service-related illness or injury.
Some service-related disabilities arise more than a year after you leave the military. In this case, the VA approves claims for eligible injuries and conditions, as long as you have a disability rating of at least 10%. The effective date for retroactive pay is still the claim receipt date.
What does the VA cover for assisted living services?
The VA covers assisted living services such as help with daily activities through its health care plan. Your physician must attest to your medical need for this type of assistance when you file a claim.
Additional assisted living help is available through Aid and Attendance. This program increases your monthly pension if you require assistance for grooming, bathing, dressing and other regular tasks. Disability benefits through the VA go toward your living expenses, including the cost of assisted living if needed.