The new Aid and Attendance enhanced pension rates for 2023 are:
Surviving Spouse | $1,432 Monthly / $17,184 per year |
Single Veteran | $2,229 Monthly / $26,748 per year |
Married Veteran | $2,642 Monthly / $31,704 per year |
Two Vets Married | $3,536 Monthly / $42,432 per year |
If you qualify for these benefits, the VA will base your payment amount on the difference between your countable income and a limit that Congress sets (called the Maximum Annual Pension Rate, or MAPR).
Example: You’re a qualified Veteran with a dependent, non-Veteran spouse and no children. You also qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits based on your disabilities. You and your spouse have a combined yearly income of $10,000.
Your MAPR amount = $31,714
Your yearly income = $10,000
Your VA pension = $21,714 for the year (or $1,809 paid each month)
The VA also considers your countable resources. Countable resources typically include anything of value that is not exempt. The primary exemptions are your home plus up to 2 contiguous acres, one vehicle and your personal items. From December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023, the net worth limit to be eligible for Veterans Pension benefits is $150,538.
Since 2018, there is a 3 year look-back period from the time you apply for VA benefits. If you transfer assets for less than fair market value during the look-back period, and those assets would have pushed your net worth above the limit for a VA pension, you may be subject to a penalty period of up to 5 years. You won’t be eligible for pension benefits during this time.
Note, to be eligible, the Veteran must have served at least one day during a wartime period with sufficient contiguous service.
In Georgia, the Department of Veterans Services will assist you without cost when you file an application for Veterans Benefits.
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