VA News
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05/10/2012 VA Ambulance Coverage: Veterans suffering heart attacks or other perilous emergencies could be risking their lives to avoid ambulance bills. About twice a day, an ambulance is sent to Florida’s Viera VA Outpatient Clinic, many times to pick up someone who went there instead of calling 9-1-1 or going straight to a hospital emergency room. More often than not, fire-rescue department records show the patients report chest pains, trouble breathing or other emergency symptoms that the VA clinic is not equipped to deal with. “You don’t want to come to the VA clinic and risk your life, passing emergency rooms along the way,” said Tiy Sanchez, a VA administrator in Orlando. According to veterans’ advocates and medical professionals working with patients daily, some are going to veterans’ clinics first because they say they can’t afford an ambulance bill as high as $600 and they believe that cost won’t be covered by their veterans’ benefits or private insurance unless they go to the clinic first. “I think if it’s anything serious, they should call 9-1-1, then worry about the details later,” said Ron Butt, a Vietnam vet who now works with local disabled veterans. “With the economy, it’s intimidating to dial that 9-1-1.” Some are worried because the decisions patients are making threaten their own safety and unnecessarily tie up county ambulances in a densely populated area. Last year, public records show ambulances in Brevard County FL took 293 patients — who county responders determined needed emergency care — from the clinic to hospitals, most to Viera Hospital about 2½ miles away. Stations in neighboring areas are affected too, because they are called in to cover when the Viera station responds to the clinic. “Our primary goal is to have the 9-1-1 system available for those who truly need it,” said Orlando Dominguez, Brevard County Fire-Rescue’s Emergency Medical Services Division chief. He said that agency is working with the VA to reduce the number of calls. But, he stressed that the department shifts rescue units around to cover the Viera area as needed. “Yes, obviously you have a unit committed to the VA, but it’s not any different than going to a home,” Dominguez said. According to Brevard County Fire-Rescue records, county ambulances responded to 550 calls from the clinic last year. Of those, 293 people needed emergency transport. That averages at least two calls per day — and about one transport per day — for the Monday-to-Friday work week that the clinic is open. The clinic sees an average of 1,100 patients per day. “Some veterans choose not to follow what is in their best health interest in a way to save money, just as other people in the community do when it comes to making medical decisions or following medical advice,” said Tony Ingram, social work supervisor at the VA clinic. Ambulance bills can be pricey. For emergencies, the average is $600. For non-emergency cases, such as delivering a patient to a nursing home, the average ambulance fee is about $350. If the ambulance picks them up at the clinic, the Department of Veterans Affairs picks up 100 percent of the bill. If not, the veteran may have to file extra paperwork and negotiate to get the bill paid, depending on their personal circumstances. They know they might end up paying part or all of the bill themselves. “I think the economy plays a part in that,” said Dr. Thomas Howard, chief medical officer at the VA clinic. Butt, who volunteers with the Disabled Veterans of America chapter in Melbourne, and medical professionals noted that while the economy is a factor, in some cases, veterans are probably in denial, too, about the seriousness of their symptoms, not realizing their chest pains are a heart attack. The VA is trying to educate patients on two fronts. First, in many emergency cases, a veteran’s health benefits will cover ambulance services — for instance, if the patient was seen by VA within the past two years and has no other private insurance. It doesn’t matter about the location as much. Each case is different, Sanchez said. “It’s not a simple yes or no,” she said. Second, they’re reminding patients that delaying treatment can lead to serious, permanent damage or even death. The Viera clinic has hung “Save Your Life” signs warning veterans to call 9-1-1 in emergencies rather than waiting. “I do educate them that their well-being is the most important thing, and they should not drive past a hospital in a medical emergency to come to the VA,” Ingram said. Ingram said the majority of people transported via ambulance don’t have urgent symptoms. “Most veterans come to the clinic because they are sick, and then after being evaluated by the medical provider are determined they need hospitalization or more care than can be provided by our outpatient clinic,” Ingram said. The county fire-rescue records show 550 calls in 2011, 502 in 2010 and 451 in 2009. The VA reimburses the county for each emergency run. The bill was $179,380 in 2011. So far, the county has collected $73,321, with the balance still being processed by the VA. [Source: Florida Today Norman Moody article 22 Apr 2012 ++] *************************** VA Special Monthly Compensation: It is possible to be compensated at a level above 100 percent for service-connected disabilities through VA’s special monthly compensation (SMC) program. Conditions that rate SMC are identified by letters ranging from (k) to (s). Refer to rate tables at http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Rates/comp02.htm. For example, a SMC(k) rating provides an additional $99 per month above whatever your disability payment is already. Some SMC ratings provide $8,000+ support beyond the amount awarded for a 100 percent disability rating. Medical conditions for which SMC applies include the specific loss or loss of use of organs or extremities — either an amputation or having no effective remaining function in an extremity or organ. VA lists these disabilities as eligible for SMC: Loss, or loss of use, of a hand or foot. Immobility of a joint or paralysis. Loss of sight of an eye (having only light perception). Loss, or loss of use, of a reproductive organ. Complete loss, or loss of use, of both buttocks. Deafness of both ears (having absence of air and bone conduction). Inability to communicate by speech (complete organic aphonia). Loss of a percentage of tissue from a single breast, or both breasts, from mastectomy or radiation treatment. VA will pay more for combinations of these disabilities such as loss or loss of use of the feet, legs, hands and arms. The distinction between “loss of a limb” and “loss of use of a limb” is important — you don’t have to undergo 36 an amputation to qualify for SMC. For example, if a veteran cannot balance or push off his foot, he may be considered to have lost the use of that foot, and so would qualify for SMC. Similarly, if a veteran cannot pick up objects with his hand, he may qualify for SMC for loss of use of that hand. In addition, veterans rated 100 percent disabled by VA who are housebound, bedridden or need the aid and attendance of another person also may be eligible for SMC. The amount of payment in these instances varies depending on the level of aid required. SMC payments aren’t meant to compensate for potential loss of earnings from a disability but rather for noneconomic factors such as personal inconvenience, social inadaptability or the profound nature of a disability. In determining qualifications for SMC, the VA must review the medical evidence regarding the loss or loss of use and then make a decision regarding the level of SMC to be paid. Contact your nearest VA regional office for more details on SMC or you can call VA’s main benefits information hotline toll free at 800-827-1000. VA also has a SMC fact sheet listed at http://www.vba.va.gov/VBA/benefits/factsheets/. [Source: Command Master Chief Alex Keenan, USCG (Ret) article 23 Apr 2012 ++] ********************************* 3/7/2012 VA Vet Centers Update10: Congress established the Vet Center Program in 1979 out of recognition that a significant number of veterans were still experiencing readjustment problems. Vet Centers are community based and part of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In April 1991, in response to the Persian Gulf War, Congress extended the eligibility to veterans who served during other periods of armed hostilities. These periods include: World War II Korea Vietnam Lebanon (25 Aug 82—26 Feb 84) Grenada (23 Oct 83—21 Nov 83) Panama (20 Dec 89—31 Jan 90) Persian Gulf (2 Aug 90—To Date of Presidential Proclamation Ending Operation Desert Storm) Somalia (17 Sep 92—To Date of Presidential Proclamation Ending Operation Restore Hope) Yugoslavia Bosnia Iraq Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) To locate the Vet Center nearest to you refer to http://www.veteranprograms.com/id234.html. The goal of the Vet Center program is to provide a broad range of counseling, outreach and referral services FREE of charge to eligible veterans in order to help them make a satisfying post-war readjustment to civilian life. The Women Veterans Health Program Act of 1992 {Public Law 103-452} authorizes counseling for women veterans who have experienced acts of sexual violence or harassment while on active duty and the Women’s Health Extension Act of 1994 authorizes sexual trauma counseling for all veterans who experienced acts of sexual violence or harassment while serving in the military. In addition, he following are available upon request: Individual Counseling Group Counseling Marriage and Family Counseling Alcohol/Drug Counseling & Referral Community Education Liaison With VA Facilities Referral To Community Agencies Bereavement Counseling [Source: http://www.veteranprograms.com/id234.html Feb 2011 +]
************************************************* VA Hospice Care Update 02: Hospice is a specialized type of healthcare that is designed to provide supportive care and services to persons in the final phase of a life-limiting illness. The focus is on the patients’ comfort and quality of life, and relief for the entire family from the burdens typically associated with this journey. Turning to hospice can be a tough choice, but finding appropriate care can be even more challenging for the families of veterans. “As veterans age, they face a distinct set of needs and challenges, including medical issues related to where they served, memories that might trigger anxiety and stoicism that makes asking for help difficult,” said the founder and president of LightBridge Hospice & Palliative Care Jill Mendlen. Their facility was recently certified to take part in the “We Honor Veterans” program headed by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Department of Veterans Affairs. One of only 12 hospice facilities in the U.S. to meet the criteria, LightBridge offers specialized training to its staff to help meet the needs of ailing veterans. “After all they’ve done for us, it’s a privilege to thank those who served with the superior end-of-life care that they deserve,” Mendlen said. The facility’s individualized program of care is tailored to meet he entire family’s needs, with a variety of services that provide comfort and support. A patient’s Individualized program of care may include: Regular visits by each member of the hospice team to place of residence. Medications related to the hospice diagnosis. Medical supplies and equipment. Personal care and grooming. Emotional support and guidance. Bereavement care and counseling. Financial consultation. Education and support for caregivers. Physical and speech therapies. Aromatherapy, Healing Touch or other integrative therapies Last week, that care was demonstrated as they hosted a ceremony to honor residents at Poway’s Solaris Senior Living Community. Led by Ralph Moran, 27, a volunteer and former Marine sergeant, four retired military personnel were presented with a plaque, pin and pillow sewn from uniforms by spouses of active duty military. Hospice patients John Fain, 91, and Wayne Howard, 86, were joined by Flowers Hogan, 83, and Henry Miller, 88 for the event. Serving veterans in Poway and throughout the county is something LightBridge’s senior vice president, Pamela Hough, says hits close to home. “This level of expertise is very personal to the staff at LightBridge because many of us have a military background or family in the military,” she said. For more information about the veteran program at LightBridge, or to volunteer, contact 858-458-2992/3655F , 6155 Cornerstone Court East, Ste. 220, San Diego, CA 92121or Email: contact@LightBridgeHospice.com or web 26 http://www.lightbridgehospice.com. For additional info on VA’s Hospice and Palliative care programs refer to http://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/Hospice_Palliative_Care2.asp[Source: Poway Patch | Town Pulse Annie Lane article 16 Feb 2012 ++]
************************************************* Ensuring Correct Surgery:The VA National Center for Patient Safety offers a free, downloadable brochure designed to educate patients on what will happen before their surgery and how caregivers will ensure safe and correct surgery. The “Ensuring Correct Surgery” pamphlet includes space for patients to write down medication information and answers to various questions, including the name of the surgery that will be performed and what body part will be operated on. The pamphlet also explains the “time out” process surgeons and nurses take to ensure correct surgery and tips for how patients can facilitate this process, such as ensuring “X” or “yes” marks on the site of surgery is not rubbed off. Potential surgery patients can review or download the brochure to take with them to their pre-op appointment at http://www.patientsafety.gov/SafetyTopics/CorrectSurg/CorrSurgPt.pdf
************************************************* Aid & Attendance Update 08: Aid and Attendance (A&A) is financial assistance from the Veterans Administration that helps with daily activities like bathing, dressing and taking medications. As a general rule, a veteran or the spouse of a veteran who is receiving care at home or in a long-term care facility who owns a home, a car and limited cash assets may be eligible for A&A. So-called “advocates” are targeting veterans and their spouses with a scam. They are telling veterans to shelter assets in order to qualify for Aid and Attendance from the Veterans Administration. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The Washington State Attorney General is investigating complaints about people who conduct seminars at senior centers and long-term care facilities telling veterans and their families that they can help with A&A eligibility by putting assets into a trust or giving them to their children, who are then advised to buy an annuity. These “advocates” make large commissions from selling the trusts and annuities. They promise help with applying for A&A, but they usually don’t submit your application until a trust or annuity is bought. There are three major problems with this scheme. First, even though there is currently no penalty for veterans to give away assets in order to meet the financial criteria to qualify for A&A, there is a five-year look-back period for gifts when applying for Medicaid (a government program that helps people pay for long-term care when they cannot otherwise afford it). This means putting assets into a trust or gifting them to children can result in denial of Medicaid benefits. In that case, a trust and/or gift may have to be undone in order to qualify. Second, the problem gets even worse because undoing a trust or annuity usually results in less than 100 percent of the initial investment being returned. An attorney may need to assist in destroying the trust and there are large surrender fees paid to get your money back out of the annuity. Also, your children may face a civil fine or need to pay for your care while you are ineligible for Medicaid. Third, you do not need the assistance of an advocate to apply for A&A. Free help is available. The V.A., the American Legion, the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs, and the VFW can all be directly contacted for help. Older adults are often prime targets for dishonest firms which deliberately prey on the goodness, loneliness, greed, or gullibility of people who have reached their golden years. Many of these scams are played out over the telephone, door to door or through various advertisements. An extensive list of such scams and how they are presented is available at http://www.atg.wa.gov/searchresults.aspx?qs=Scams. In Washington complaints against these and the A&A scams can and should be made to the Washington State Attorney General’s Office at: Tel: M-F 1000 to 1500 (360) 753-6200; 1-800-551-4636 (in-state only); 1-206-464-6684 (out-of-state callers); 1-800-833-6384 (for the hearing impaired) Mail: 1125 Washington Street SE, PO Box 40100, Olympia, WA 98504-0100 On Line: https://fortress.wa.gov/atg/formhandler/ago/ContactForm.aspx [Source: The Enumclaw Courier-Herald article 17 Feb 2012 ++] ************************************************* VA Vet Centers Update 09: Early this year, the Department of Veterans Affairs deployed 20 additional Mobile Vet Centers. The mobile Vet centers will increase access to readjustment counseling services for Veterans and their families in rural and underserved communities across the country. The 20 new vehicles will be used in destinations across the continental United States, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. “In fiscal year 2011, Mobile Vet Centers participated in more than 3,600 federal, state and locally sponsored Veteran-related events.” These customized vehicles – which are equipped with confidential counseling space and a state of the art communication package—travel to communities to extend VA’s reach to Veterans, servicemembers and their families, especially those living in rural or remote communities. The vehicles also serve as part of the VA emergency response program. The 20 new, American-made vehicles will expand the existing fleet of 50 Mobile Vet Centers already in service providing outreach and counseling services. Mobile Vet units are equipped as “offices on wheels,” with the capacity to provide emergency support for natural disasters. Each motor coach houses a satellite dish that connects to communications and audio-visual equipment, six phone lines, a fax line, notebook computers, four encrypted computer lines and a wireless network. In fiscal year 2011, Mobile Vet Centers participated in more than 3,600 federal, state and locally sponsored Veteran-related events. The 20 new mobile Vet Centers will be based at: Birmingham, Ala.; San Diego, Calif.; Atlanta, Ga. ; Western Oahu, Hawaii; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Evanston, Ill. ; Indianapolis, Ind. ; Baltimore, Md. ; Pontiac, Mich. ; Kansas City, Mo.; Jackson, Miss.; Greensboro, N.C.; Lakewood, N.J.; Reno, Nev.; Stark County, Ohio; Lawton, Okla.; Ponce, Puerto Rico; Nashville, Tenn.; Washington County, Utah; and Green Bay, Wis. VA has 300 permanent Vet Centers serving communities across the country. To locate one in your area refer to http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/vetcenter_flsh.asp for its address and telephone number. To speak confidentially with a Vet Center Counselor at any time around the clock call:877-WAR-VETS(927-8387). Each Vet Center offers: Individual and group counseling for Veterans and their families Family counseling for military related issues Bereavement counseling for families who experience an active duty death Military sexual trauma counseling and referral Outreach and education Substance abuse assessment and referral Employment assessment and referral VA benefits explanation and referral Screening and referral for medical issues including traumatic brain injury and depression. VA will also add 230 emergency shuttle vehicles over the next five years. The shuttles will provide routine transportation for Veteran patients in and around various metropolitan areas during normal operations. During disasters and emergencies, these shuttles can double as mobile clinics to evacuate patients and their care teams. More than 190,000 Veterans and families made over 1.3 million visits to VA Vet Centers in fiscal year 2011. To find out more about Vet Center services or find a Vet Center in your area, go to the Vet Centers web site http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/ [Source: http://w11.zetaboards.com/CFLNewsChat/topic/7631002/1/ Feb 2011 ++] *************************************************
2/15/2012 VA Dependent Care: Unfortunately, family members are mostly excluded from care at a VA health care facility unless the family member is a veteran. There are a few exceptions to this exclusion. VHA Directive 2012-006, stipulates that non-Veteran family members may receive health care services at VA facilities under certain circumstances. Most notable are family members of a DOD Servicemember. When a Servicemember is referred to a VA health care facility, the director of the VA facility is responsible for ensuring appropriate care and services are provided to the family member. In order for a family member to be eligible for care, the Servicemember had to be referred to the VA for their care. Emergent or urgent care will be provided if, the family member who is accompanying the Servicemember, is need of humanitarian emergency care. If the family member is in need of routine care, if the VA has space available, the VA must have approval from the Servicemember‘s military treatment facility, the TRICARE Regional Managed Care Support Contractors, TRICARE Service Centers, or Military Medical Support Office. If these offices do not approve the request, or authorization, the VA is basically prohibited from providing the family member routine care. There are other situations when family members may receive care at a VA facility. The best example are family members who are entitled to CHAMPVA. Some VA facilities take part in CHAMPVA In-house Treatment Initiative (CITI). This is a voluntary program for VA medical facilities. Under the CITI program, family members receive care at the same copay cost under the TRICARE program. For more information on the CTTI program refer to http://www.va.gov/hac/forbeneficiaries/champva/champva.asp . To cover copay cost there are supplemental insurance polices that can be purchased through some fraternal military organizations such as MOAA or other commercial companies such as http://www.champvaus.com/. In addition to VA health care the spouse or surviving spouse of an eligible veteran is eligible for interment in a national cemetery of her choice even if that veteran is not buried or memorialized in a national cemetery. In addition, the spouse or surviving spouse of a member of the Armed Forces of the United States whose remains are unavailable for burial is also eligible for burial. The surviving spouse of an eligible veteran who had a subsequent remarriage to a non-veteran and whose death occurred on or after 1 JAN 2000, is also eligible for burial in a national cemetery, based on his or her marriage to the eligible veteran. However, a former spouse of an eligible individual whose marriage to that individual has been terminated by annulment or divorce, if not otherwise eligible, is not eligible for interment in a national cemetery. Minor children of eligible veterans are eligible. For additional information on burials refer to http://www.cem.va.gov/cem/bbene/eligible.asp. [Source: VeteransAdvise David Peters blog 3 Feb 2012 ++] ********************************* VA Caregiver Program Update 12: Family members of veterans would be entitled to the same leave afforded to family members of current military service members under an amendment to The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) announced 30 JAN. Labor Secretary Hilda L. Solis, along with first lady Michelle Obama, said the Labor Department is proposing statutory amendments to FMLA that would allow a related caregiver up to five years of leave after the service member leaves the military. The current law, passed in 1993, affords this only to family members of those currently serving in the military. The proposal also extends “qualifying exigency leave” to employees whose family members serve in the regular armed forces. Currently, this applies only to families of National Guard members and reservists. “Keeping the basic promise of America alive means ensuring that workers, from our servicemen and servicewomen who keep us safe at home to the flight crews who keep us safe in the skies, have the resources, support and opportunities they need and have rightfully earned,” Solis said. “The proposed revisions announced today are an important step toward keeping that promise.” Military caregivers, including those of veterans, will be allowed 26 workweeks of leave during a single 12-month period to care for a covered service member with illness or injury if the caregiver is an eligible employee and is the service member’s spouse, son, daughter, parent or next of kin. Under the proposed amendment, the leave allowance can apply to conditions that may not arise until after the veteran’s service. The proposal also extends the amount of time an employee can take off work to spend with a service member who is on medical leave from five days to 15 days. To review the Family and Medical Leave Act refer to http://www.dol.gov/whd/fmla/NPRM/FMLA_NPRM_2012.pdf. [Source: GovExec.com Amanda Palleschi 30 Jan 2011 ++] ********************************* VA Caregiver Program Update 13: There is no doubt that caregiving can be a challenging job, but you can get the help you need. Below are 50 supportive tips – from emotional reassurance to suggestions for getting help. If you need additional assistance, call VA‘s Caregiver Support Line (1-855-260-3274) or go online at http://www.caregiver.va.gov: 1) A Caregiver is someone who cares for an aging, ill, injured or disabled Veteran. 2) Caregiving duties range from occasional errand-running and other supportive care to 24-hour, live-in support. 3) You don‘t have to live with the Veteran to be a Caregiver. 4) About one fourth of adults are Caregivers. 5) There is no one way to care for a Veteran. Each situation is different. 6) You can provide care yourself or bring in other family members. You can also hire a professional Caregiver. 7) The Veteran being cared for may live at home or in your home. Or he or she may live in an assisted living or shared housing situation. 9) When possible, you and the Veteran being cared for should make decisions together. 10) The wishes of the Veteran being cared for are very important. 11) Your needs and wishes are important, too. 12) Taking care of yourself is as important as caring for your loved one. 13) Be sure to eat well, get enough rest and exercise regularly. 14) The healthier you are, the better care you will provide! 15) Don‘t be afraid to say you need a break – no one can do it all by themselves. 16) Help and support can come from community organizations, religious organizations, family members, friends or neighbors. 17) When people offer to help, say yes! 18) Keep a list of the things you can use help with, such as bringing dinner or giving you a break. When someone offers to help, have them choose from the list. 19) Find out about meal delivery, transportation services, adult day care and respite care. 20) If you are balancing work and caregiving, talk to your employer about flexibility in your job. 21) You may be able to take time off from work under the Family and Medical Leave Act. This federal law allows qualified employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid time off to care for a family member. 22) A VA social worker or nurse who assists people in finding care for an aging, ill, injured or disabled adult is called a care or case manager. 23) A VA care manager helps find services – whether you live close by or in another city or state. 24) Contact the Veteran‘s primary care provider or VA social worker, county social services, local area agency on aging or senior center to find out about respite care and other services in your area. 25) If the Veteran you are caring for has a low or moderate income, you may be able to get financial assistance for care through your county or state. 26) Caregiving duties often change over time. A Veteran may need occasional help now and more care later on. 27) Planning ahead can make caregiving easier in the future. 28) As a Caregiver, you will need to learn about medical, financial and legal issues. 29) Talk with the Veteran you are caring for about money, medical care and legal issues. This may not be easy, but it is critical in planning for the future. 30) Keep the Veteran‘s social security number, doctors‘ names and phone numbers, prescriptions and insurance information where you can find them in an emergency. 31) Find out about a Durable Power of Attorney for health care and finances. These give you the legal right to make decisions if your loved one cannot. 32) You may need to know about income, bank accounts, wills and insurance policies. 33) Talk with a lawyer about legal issues and financing care. Legal aid is available to people who cannot afford to pay for a lawyer. 34) Learn as much as you can about the Veteran‘s illness, disease or condition. 35) Get information about the condition by talking to a health care provider, reading books or searching the Internet. 36) Learning to care for a Veteran can take practice and special skills. 37) Learning how to care for a Veteran can also help you feel more confident. 38) You can learn how to provide care from health care professionals, videos or books. 39) All Caregivers feel overwhelmed at times. If you often feel overwhelmed, you may need to get help. 40) If you feel angry or often lose patience with the Veteran you are caring for, get help. 41) If you use alcohol, drugs or medication in order to cope, get help. 42) If you are depressed, talk to a doctor, counselor or therapist. Depression can be treated. 43) It is critical for Caregivers to develop a support system. 44) You can get support from a support group, therapist, family members or friends. 45) Other Caregivers can be a great resource. Talk to you Caregiver Support Coordinator to see about starting or joining a Caregiver support network near your VA Medical Center. 46) Caregiver support groups can help you connect with others who are going through similar experiences. 47) A sense of humor can help you deal with the emotional ups and downs. 48) Caregivers who get help are less likely to burn out. 49) Caregivers who get help are better able to provide care for the long term. 50) Caregiving is not an easy job – but it can be very rewarding [Source: http://www.caregiver.va.gov/pdfs/50_Things_Every_Caregiver_Should_Know.pdf Feb 2012 ++] ********************************* VA Burial Benefit Update 12: The parents of certain deceased veterans will soon be allowed to be buried in national cemeteries. The Department of Veterans Affairs will allow “biological or legally adoptive parents” to be interred “if the deceased veteran is a hostile casualty or dies from a training-related injury,” states the Federal Register’s final rule, published 31 JAN. “Recognizing the unique burden on the surviving parents of fallen service members, the act provides burial eligibility to those parents whose unmarried veteran son or daughter dies due to combat or training-related injuries,” the pre-published final rule says. The action implements part of the Veterans Benefits Act of 2010 that was “enacted” on Oct. 13, 2010. The department also clarifies that “by limiting the circumstances under which a parent is eligible for burial,” the act will ensure that “gravesites [will] not be taken from those who have earned the right to burial in a national cemetery by serving their country.” Parents would also be eligible if the veteran “is interred in a VA national cemetery in a gravesite with available space, and has no spouse or child who is buried, or surviving spouse or child who, upon death, may be eligible for burial, in a national cemetery.” Family members must be parents “of veterans who die on or after Oct. 7, 2001,” and must have passed away “on or after Oct. 13, 2010″ to be eligible, according to the final rule. [Source: The Hill Rachel Leven article 30 Jan 2012 ++] *********************************
2/12/2012 To Find, Select and Contact your county Veterans Service Officer in order to get help with VA benefits: For all states except California www.nacvso.org<http://www.nacvso.org/ For California residents use www.cacvso.org<http://www.cacvso.org/
2/12/2012 VA Disability Rating Criteria: A former 30 year employee of the Veterans Administration wrote the following after his retirement. He is also a disabled vet. It addresses the lack of knowledge 4. If the veteran has more than one disability, each of which is considered at least 10% disabling, they will be applied to a combined rating schedule to yield a combined evaluation. The individual disabilities are not added to give a final percentage. For example. Assume our hypothetical veteran has 3 disabilities: knee, heart, and psychological. Each disability is considered 50% disabling. The veteran is not considered 150% disabled. What happens is Each % is applied to the From the website: http://www.vfvc.net/pages/va_disability_rating_criteria.htm
2/05/12 Make the Connection: Many of our nation’s veterans return not only with physical wounds but also mental health issues they may not recognize. Whether you left the military decades ago or just recently transitioned to civilian life, all veterans share a common bond of duty, honor, and service. Some served in combat overseas, others did not. Some responded to events or disasters within or outside the United States. No matter when, where, or how you served, and what you’ve experienced in civilian life, you may be dealing with issues that affect your well-being or get in the way of your relationships, work, or daily activities. Make the Connection is a public awareness campaign by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that provides personal testimonials from other veterans and resources to help veterans discover ways to improve their lives. The campaign encourages veterans and their families to “make the connection” with information and resources, with the strength and resilience of veterans like themselves, with other people, and with available sources of support including mental health treatments. Central to this campaign is http://maketheconnection.net/, a one-stop online resource where veterans, their families, and friends can privately explore information about physical and mental health symptoms, challenging life events, and mental health conditions. This site provides:
A wide variety of information about available resources and support, both inside the VA and out. Powerful personal stories and testimonials illustrating how our fellow veterans face and overcome mental health issues and life’s challenges. These stories and testimonials come from veterans of all service eras, genders, and backgrounds and each of them provides a resounding and compelling example of the positive outcomes for treatment, recovery, and the many paths that lead to more fulfilling lives. Warning signs and symptoms. These are discussed in detail, offering some basic self-help options and referral information for those who need professional assistance. Some of the issues deal with veterans who feel constantly on edge (hypervigilance) or those who suffer from stress or anxiety on a regular basis. These are also great tools for friends and family members who are dealing with the veteran as he or she faces these issues, and might not otherwise know where to turn. Resources for clinicians who are working with veterans, regardless of whether they are affiliated with the VA or not. This information is provided in order to ensure that the VA’s knowledge base in behavioral health can reach the broadest possible audience. VA encourages all behavioral healthcare providers who work with veterans to utilize those resources. Topical information for veterans of all walks of life. It provides insight into many life experiences, such as transitioning from the military into civilian life, concerns about employment, dealing with the death of a friend or family member, financial problems, relationship issues, and more. [Source: Stacey R. Hopwood, Marine veteran and Montgomery County Veterans Service officer article 14 Nov 2011 ++]
********************************* [Source: Military.com | Money Matters USAA article 26 Jan 2012 ++] Military Handbooks: Military Handbooks offers FREE handbooks for active and retired U.S. military personnel which are written specifically for the Military community. To download PDF copies, go to http://www.militaryhandbooks.com. If, for whatever reason, you cannot download them send an email request to raoemo@sbcglobal.com indicating the Handbook desired and one will be forwarded to you as an attachment to your email. The following handbooks are available for 2011: 1) 2011 UNITED STATES MILITARY HANDBOOK 2) 2011 U.S. MILITARY RETIRED HANDBOOK 3) 2011 GETTING UNCLE SAM TO PAY FOR YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE 4) 2011 AFTER THE MILITARY HANDBOOK 5) 2011 BENEFITS FOR VETERANS AND DEPENDENTS HANDBOOK 6) 2011 VETERANS HEALTHCARE BENEFITS HANDBOOK 7) 2011 MILITARY CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP HANDBOOK 9) 2011 BASE INSTALLATION DIRECTORY 10) 2011 GULF CRISES AND RESOURCE HANDBOOK 2011 UNITED STATES MILITARY HANDBOOK The United States Military Handbook is designed to help all active duty U.S. Military personnel by giving them the most accurate and complete information available anywhere on pay, allowances, taxes, health care and TRICARE benefits, Veterans and Social Security Benefits, travel, transportation, SBP, retirement, Space-A, installation listings, statistical data, and much more! 2011 U.S. MILITARY RETIRED HANDBOOK The United States Military Retired Handbook is designed to help all U.S. Military personnel who have retired – or who are planning to retire. This guide covers everything from the nuts and bolts of computing your Retirement Pay to the detailed explanations of retired military Healthcare, TRICARE, Social Security, VA, SBP, taxes, insurance, travel, survivor benefits and more! 2011 GETTING UNCLE SAM TO PAY FOR YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE This guide, written for active military personnel, covers everything you need to know about: the G.I. Bill, tuition assistance, scholarships, veteran benefits, student aid, selecting the right degree for you – why some degrees might be better for you than others, finding the right military-friendly school, AND tips on staying ahead of the curve. 26 2011AFTER THE MILITARY HANDBOOK This handbook, written for military veterans, covers: transitioning to the private sector, supporting your family, finding a job that pays “top dollar”, choosing between jobs with large or small companies, deciding to start your own company, maximizing the benefits of a military career, medical benefits and life insurance in the private sector, how to pay for college after you leave the military service, D ANhow to retire successfully. 2011 BENEFITS FOR VETERANS AND DEPENDENTS HANDBOOK This complete benefits handbook, written for veterans and their dependents, covers: health care benefits, disability compensation, pension, vocational rehabilitation and employment, education and training, home loan guarantees, life insurance, burial benefits, survivor benefits, women veterans, homeless veterans, overseas benefits, small and disadvantaged businesses, appeals, workplace benefits, miscellaneous programs, and much more! 2011VETERANS HEALTHCARE BENEFITS HANDBOOK This handbook, written for veterans, gives you everything you need to know about: how to apply, veterans service centers, choosing a facility, changing a facility, second opinions, prescriptions, dental care, chiropractic care, non-VA care, travel, POW benefits, appeals, grievances, confidentiality, financial issues, means testing, hardship determinations, waivers, medication co-payments, health insurance, and a complete listing of VA facilities. 2011 MILITARY CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP HANDBOOK A college degree has become the essential tool to unlock doors for future success. This handbook contains all the latest information about getting a college degree, including: types of higher education, resources for finding the right college, entrance exams, financial aid resources, paying for college, applying for federal student aid, Pell Grants, Direct and Federal Family Education Loans, PLUS loans, Consolidated loans, Federal Work-Study Progrm, U.S. Armed Forces and ROTC, and much more. 2011 GUARD AND RESERVE HANDBOOK This handbook, written specifically for the National Guard and Reserves, gives you everything you need to know about serving in the Reserve Component, including: drill pay and enlistment bonuses; allowances like BAS and BAH; re-employment rights; education and training benefits specific to the Guard and Reserve; health care; and retirement. 2011 BASE INSTALLATION DIRECTORY The Base Installation Directory provides contact information for every military installation in the United States. From information about military housing to the commissary to the base dental clinic, you’ll find the contact number and addresses you need in one easy to access guide. 2011 GULF CRISES AND RESOURCE HANDBOOK April 20, 2010 changed the lives of many people, especially residents of the Gulf Coast after the BP Deepwater Horizon offshore drilling rig exploded, making it the worst environmental disaster in our nation’s history. Lives were ruined, jobs were lost and many people were looking for answers while rebuilding their lives. this handbook provides the essential information to get your life back on track during this crisis. iT CONTAINS the latest on local, state and Federal resources as well as direct links to all BP claims offices. [Source: http://www.militaryhandbooks.com Jan 2012 ++] ********************************* Retirement Planning Update 05: Financial planners just love promoting 401(k) retirement plans. They have quite a few benefits, notably a tax deduction for contributions as well as a tax deferral for contributions and earnings. They’re also one of the most popular vehicles for introducing the working middle class to the stock market, something that might not have been accessible to this group in the decades before the 401(k) plan was established. In addition to financial planners, fund management firms and plan administrators love 401(k) plans, and their love knows no bounds. Companies pay significant fees to other companies that operate and manage 401(k) plans. More fees are embedded in the funds within the plans, benefiting each fund’s management team. The tax advantages, as well as a potential matching contribution if an employer offers one, offset some of the drawbacks of 401(k) plans. 29 Overall, 401(k) plans can help the working middle class retire somewhat comfortably. And there is the possibility for investors to succeed financially significantly more than they might have with a comparable pension. The burden for performance has shifted from the employer to the employee, and that requires a little bit of financial education that might not have been as necessary (though still beneficial) in the heyday of pensions. Five things to concsider when investing in are selecting a 401(k) retirement plan are: 1. Fees. As already mentioned, most 401(k) plans are subject to fees, many of which are not immediately apparent to the investor. If you bother to read the prospectus associated with each fund you choose to invest in, you may find an expense ratio listed. If you do, there’s a good chance it’s higher than a comparable index fund. Some employers include investment choices that are annuity products disguised as mutual funds with no expense ratios listed. It such situations it is nearly impossible to determine how much of your investment you are losing to funds each year. While fees are on the investment choices and the associated markets. Pensions, when they are fully funded, tend to be more stable. 2. Employers are hands-off. As the popularity of 401(k) plans grew, pension plans disappeared. A 401(k) is considered a ―defined contribution‖ plan, while pensions are considered a ―defined benefit‖ plan. That comes from the idea that the 401(k) balance is affected each payroll period by a contribution from the employee, while the pension balance increases at regular intervals by a contribution from the employer — a benefit of working at the company. The value of a pension also tends to increase as the length of service at one company increases. As the popularity of pensions and other loyalty benefits decreased over the last couple of decades, employees had a decreasing incentive to stay at one company for their entire career. With pensions being a smaller part of most employers’ benefits, they do not need to worry as much about the solvency of these accounts. At the same time, it is up to the employee to make the right investment choices in a 401(k). 3. Automatic enrollment. The advent of 401(k) programs brought on an increase of the nation’s wealth tied up in the stock market. That’s more income for money managers. It also creates a higher demand for investments, raising prices somewhat artificially. But there has also been a more recent increasing trend of employers automatically enrolling new employees into 401(k) plans once they are eligible. It’s a great idea to stimulate a better possible retirement outcome, considering many employees might not bother to elect to invest in a 401(k) immediately, even if they intend to. Usually, any mechanism that automates your finances is a good thing. But too much automation can create complacency. It’s important to be aware and know what’s going on with your finances rather than blindly accepting what someone creates for you. You might be better off with an increased deferral rate than the default, or you may need to cancel your 401(k) contribution before it begins to improve your cash flow for necessary expenses. 4. Automatic allocation. Like automatic investment, automatic allocation can be a trap. Some plans will, if the employee doesn’t elect specific investments, direct all contributions to a money market fund. Any investor could probably be better off in a high-yield savings account than a money market fund managed by a large investment house, even taking into the tax benefit of a 401(k) plan. Furthermore, some plans will automatically invest your funds in a mix of stocks and bonds, with the percentages based on your age or your expected retirement date. This may or may not be appropriate for your situation, and importantly, it doesn’t take your outside investments into account. For example, if you plan on retiring 35 years from now, your 401(k) plan might recommend an investment of 90 percent stock funds and 10 percent bond funds, but if you already have a significant investment in stocks, your overall portfolio may be closer to 95 percent stocks and 5 percent bonds. 5. Loans. With a 401(k) plan, you can loan yourself money. This sounds like it should be a benefit. In some cases it is, but often 401(k) loans end up being detrimental to someone’s finances. If there is an emergency and you cannot pay back the loan either on time or at all, you can face fees and penalties. If you lose your job with a loan outstanding, the entire remaining loan balance could become due immediately. [Source: Flexo Consumerism Commentary article via MoneyTalks 20 Jan 2012 ++] 30 ********************************* Retirement Planning Update 06: Many people find it easier to avoid reality when it comes to planning for retirement. “That can lead to big mistakes in their retirement income planning,” says Kevin O’Fee, assistant vice president of retirement strategy at USAA. Here’s a look at five common myths that could derail your expectations for income when you retire. Myth 1: You won’t be around long enough to go through your money. The Reality: Life expectancies are at record highs in the United States, so it’s important to acknowledge that you or a family member may spend as many years in retirement as you did working. According to a 2010 report by the National Academy of Social Insurance, for a 65-year-old married couple, there’s a 48% chance that one spouse will live to age 90. To help stretch your money, you can consider incorporating immediate and deferred annuities into your portfolio. These products are designed to provide income in retirement while also offering guaranteed growth when saving for retirement, explains Rob Schaffer, assistant vice president of annuity products at USAA. In addition, you will want to consider investing the rest of your portfolio to try to cover costs and outpace inflation well into the future. For further advice on creating sources of retirement income, check out this Ask June column http://askjune.military.com/2011/03/options-for-creating-retirement-income-some-goodsome-not-so-much.html. Myth 2: You should get out of stocks when you retire. The Reality: Stocks can help provide the long-term growth you need to make your assets last longer since your retirement could span several decades. You’ve probably heard you should reduce your investment risk as you age. But with traditional pensions being replaced by 401(k) plans, you’re wholly responsible for making smart asset allocation decisions. As O’Fee puts it, “Everyone now has to be a pension fund manager with their own money, and most people just aren’t equipped to do that.” O’Fee agrees your portfolio risk should decline, but that doesn’t mean getting rid of stocks entirely. Rather, regularly reviewing, and if necessary, rebalancing your portfolio based on your risk tolerance can lock in gains from strong-performing asset classes and allow you to buy those that underperform at cheaper prices. Note that rebalancing does not protect against losses or guarantee that an investor’s goal will be met. Investment and insurance products are not deposits, not insured by FDIC or any government agency, not guaranteed by the Bank. Investment and certain insurance products may lose value. Investing in securities products involves risk, including possible loss of principal. The fixed annuity guarantee is against principal loss and depends on the claims-paying ability of the issuer. There are costs associated with annuities, including surrender fees, early withdrawal penalties and mortality risk expenses. Annuities do not provide any tax-deferral advantage over other types of investments within a qualified plan. Asset allocation does not protect against a loss or guarantee that an investor’s goal will be met. Conversions from a Traditional IRA to a Roth are subject to ordinary income taxes. Please consult with a tax advisor regarding your particular situation 31 Myth 3: You can just keep working. The Reality: Counting on being able to work as long as you want is dangerous, says O’Fee. Employers are feeling pressure to cut costs, and with high unemployment, finding work is always a challenge. A disability also could force you to stop working prematurely. Many people think they can simply work longer if they don’t have enough money to retire. According to a recent survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute, 74% of workers plan to work at least part-time during their retirement years, and Schaffer notes working in retirement has become a necessity for many. Good planning doesn’t rely on good fortune. Rather, your plan should both keep you from having to work the rest of your life, and deal with the consequences of unexpected surprises that prevent you from earning a paycheck. Myth 4: An inheritance will bail you out. The Reality: You may be hoping for an inheritance as a potential retirement boost. But hope is not a strategy, and counting on an inheritance can create big problems if it doesn’t come through. In reality, many people who expect to inherit money never do so, says O’Fee. And even for those who do inherit money, it’s often too small or comes too late to make a difference in their retirement planning, he adds. The safer thing to do is to treat an inheritance as an unexpected bonus rather than relying on it. Myth 5: Your taxes will be lower in retirement. The Reality: Big government deficits make future tax increases much more likely. Also, taking money out of retirement accounts, such as traditional IRAs and 401(k)s, creates taxable income that can push you into higher tax brackets. One suggestion O’Fee offers is to consider converting part of your eligible retirement assets to a Roth IRA. By doing so, you’ll pay taxes now, but you’ll create a tax-free pool of money to tap in retirement. Diversifying with both Roth and traditional IRAs is a possible way to handle future tax uncertainty, adds Schaffer. Maxed out your Roth? Check out some other IRA options at http://askjune.military.com/2011/03/maxed-roth-heres-where-to-invest-next.html.
Checklist of Benefits for Disabled Veterans and Survivors Note: Many of the listed benefits also have other eligibility requirements. Mention of a particular benefit is to establish the basic threshold level of disability required for eligibility (or possible eligibility) to that benefit. Each higher level of disability also includes those benefits listed for previous levels. 2. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 5 (no co-payment for healthcare; pharmacy co-payments required for NSC medications), or Priority Group 7 or 8 (co-payments required for both healthcare and pharmacy), depending on veteran’s income andnet worth. 3. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—for Purple Heart recipients and former POWs, without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 4. Eligibility for VA Nursing Home care for any (NSC) condition, provided incomeand assets are within specified limits. 5. Eligibility for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (RH). 6. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of a creative organ. 7. Possible eligibility for payment of annual clothing allowance for specified SC disorders resulting in need for prosthetic appliance or use of a wheelchair, or for certain skin conditions. 8. Possible eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. (Noncompensable (0%) disability must have been incurred in combat or have ascertainable residuals, 38 CFR § 3.357.) 9. Eligibility for 10-point preference for State of California employment. 10. Possible eligibility for Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) home modification grant. 11. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B). Rated SC — 10% overall 1. VA fee basis outpatient medical card for SC condition(s) requiring treatment. 2. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 3 or Priority Group 6 (veterans with multiple 0% conditions receiving compensation at the 10% rate, 38 CFR § 3.324). No healthcare co-payments required for either group; both groups pay pharmacy co-payments for NSC medications, except for former POWs. 3. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 4. Eligibility for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (RH). 5. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of a creative organ. 6. Possible eligibility for payment of annual clothing allowance for specified SC disorders resulting in need for prosthetic appliance or use of a wheelchair, or for certain skin conditions. 7. Possible eligibility for education or training under VA Vocational Rehabilitation (showing of marked employment handicap required). 8. Golden Access Passport for U.S. National Parks. 9. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. 10. Eligibility for 15-point preference for State of California employment. 11. Home loan guaranty funding fee exemption. 12. Possible eligibility for Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) home modification grant. 13. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B). 14. Possible eligibility for DMV Disabled Person Parking Placard. Rated SC — 20% overall 1. VA fee basis outpatient medical card for SC condition(s) requiring treatment. 2. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 3 (no healthcare co-payments required; pharmacy co-payments required for NSC medications, except for former POWs). 3. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 4. Eligibility for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (RH). 5. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of a creative organ. 6. Possible eligibility for payment of annual clothing allowance for specified SC disorders resulting in need for prosthetic appliance or use of a wheelchair, or for certain skin conditions. 7. Eligibility for education or training under VA Vocational Rehabilitation. 8. Golden Access Passport for U.S. National Parks. 9. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. 10. Eligibility for 15-point preference for State of California employment. 11. Home loan guaranty funding fee exemption. 12. Possible eligibility for Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) home modification grant. 13. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B). 14. Possible eligibility for DMV Disabled Person Parking Placard. Rated SC — 30% overall 1. Eligibility for additional allowance for dependents—spouse, children, dependent parent(s). 2. Eligibility for additional aid and attendance allowance for disabled spouse. 3. VA fee basis outpatient medical card for SC condition(s) requiring treatment. 4. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 2 (no healthcare co-payment required; pharmacy co-payments required for NSC medications, except for former POWs). 5. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 6. Eligibility for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (RH). 7. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of a creative organ; loss of a female breast; or, loss of use of one eye (blindness). 8. Possible eligibility for payment of annual clothing allowance for specified SC disorders resulting in need for prosthetic appliance or use of a wheelchair, or for certain skin conditions. 9. Eligibility for education or training under VA Vocational Rehabilitation. 10. Golden Access Passport for U.S. National Parks. 11. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. Under certain circumstances, may be employed on a noncompetitive basis. 12. Eligibility for 15-point preference for State of California employment. 13. Home loan guaranty funding fee exemption. 14. Possible eligibility for Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) home modification grant. 15. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B). 16. Possible eligibility for DMV Disabled Person Parking Placard. Rated SC — 40% overall 1. Eligibility for additional allowance for dependents—spouse, children, dependent parent(s). 2. Eligibility for additional aid and attendance allowance for disabled spouse. 3. VA fee basis outpatient medical card for SC condition(s) requiring treatment. 4. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 2 (no healthcare co-payment required; pharmacy co-payments required for NSC medications, except for former POWs). 5. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 6. Eligibility for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (RH). 7. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of a creative organ; loss of a female breast; or, loss or loss of use of one foot or one eye. 8. Possible eligibility for payment of annual clothing allowance for specified SC disorders resulting in need for prosthetic appliance or use of a wheelchair, or for certain skin conditions. 9. Possible eligibility for one-time assistance in purchase of specially-adapted automobile. 10. Possible eligibility for Automobile Adaptive Equipment Allowance. 11. Eligibility for education or training under VA Vocational Rehabilitation. 12. Golden Access Passport for U.S. National Parks. 13. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. Under certain circumstances, may be employed on a noncompetitive basis. 14. Eligibility for 15-point preference for State of California employment. 15. Home loan guaranty funding fee exemption. 16. Possible eligibility for Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) home modification grant. 17. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B). 18. Possible eligibility for DMV Disabled Person Parking Placard. Rated SC — 50% overall 1. Eligibility for additional allowance for dependents—spouse, children, dependent parent(s). 2. Eligibility for additional aid and attendance allowance for disabled spouse. 3. VA fee basis outpatient medical card (all conditions requiring treatment, whether SC or not, except dental). 4. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 1 (no co-payments required). 5. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 6. Eligibility for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (RH). 7. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of a creative organ; loss of a female breast; or, loss or loss of use of one foot or one eye. 8. Possible eligibility for payment of annual clothing allowance for specified SC disorders resulting in need for prosthetic appliance or use of a wheelchair, or for certain skin conditions. 9. Possible eligibility for one-time assistance in purchase of specially-adapted automobile. 10. Possible eligibility for Automobile Adaptive Equipment Allowance. 11. Eligibility for education or training under VA Vocational Rehabilitation. 12. Golden Access Passport for U.S. National Parks. 13. California State Park pass (requires SC wartime-incurred disability) ($3.50 one-time fee). 14. Reduced fee for hunting license. 15. Reduced fee for basic sport fishing license. 16. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. Under certain circumstances, may be employed on a noncompetitive basis. 17. Eligibility for 15-point preference for State of California employment. 18. Home loan guaranty funding fee exemption. 19. Possible eligibility for Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) home modification grant. 20. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B). 21. Possible eligibility for DMV Disabled Person Parking Placard. Rated SC — 60% overall 1. Eligibility for a rating of total disability because of individual unemployability. 2. Eligibility for additional allowance for dependents—spouse, children, dependent parent(s). 3. Eligibility for additional aid and attendance allowance for disabled spouse. 4. VA fee basis outpatient medical card (all conditions requiring treatment, whether SC or not, except dental). 5. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 1 (no co-payments required). 6. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 7. Eligibility for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (RH). 8. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of a creative organ; loss of a female breast; or, loss or loss of use of one hand, one foot, or one eye. 9. Possible eligibility for payment of annual clothing allowance for specified SC disorders resulting in need for prosthetic appliance or use of a wheelchair, or for certain skin conditions. 10. Possible eligibility for one-time assistance in purchase of specially-adapted automobile. 11. Possible eligibility for Automobile Adaptive Equipment Allowance. 12. Eligibility for education or training under VA Vocational Rehabilitation. 13. Golden Access Passport for U.S. National Parks. 14. California State Park pass (requires SC wartime-incurred disability) ($3.50 one-time fee). 15. Reduced fee for hunting license. 16. Reduced fee for basic sport fishing license. 17. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. Under certain circumstances, may be employed on a noncompetitive basis. 18. Eligibility for 15-point preference for State of California employment. 19. Home loan guaranty funding fee exemption. 20. Possible eligibility for Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) home modification grant. 21. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B) Rated SC — 70%, 80%, or 90% overall 1. Eligibility for a rating of total disability because of individual unemployability. 2. Eligibility for additional allowance for dependents—spouse, children, dependent parent(s). 3. Eligibility for additional aid and attendance allowance for disabled spouse. 4. VA fee basis outpatient medical card (all conditions requiring treatment, whether SC or not, except dental). 5. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 1 (no co-payments required). 6. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 7. Eligibility for long-term VA Nursing Home care for any condition. 8. Eligibility for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (RH). 9. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of a creative organ; loss of a female breast; loss or loss of use of one hand, one foot, or one eye; or, loss of use of both buttocks (80%). 10. Possible eligibility for payment of annual clothing allowance for specified SC disorders resulting in need for prosthetic appliance or use of a wheelchair, or for certain skin conditions. 11. Possible eligibility for one-time assistance in purchase of specially-adapted automobile. 12. Possible eligibility for Automobile Adaptive Equipment Allowance. 13. Eligibility for education or training under VA Vocational Rehabilitation. 14. Golden Access Passport for U.S. National Parks. 15. California State Park pass (requires SC wartime-incurred disability) ($3.50 one-time fee). 16. Reduced fee for hunting license. 17. Reduced fee for basic sport fishing license. 18. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. Under certain circumstances, may be employed on a noncompetitive basis. 19. Eligibility for 15-point preference for State of California employment. 20. Home loan guaranty funding fee exemption. 21. Possible eligibility for Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) home modification grant. 22. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B). 23. Possible eligibility for DMV Disabled Person Parking Placard. Rated SC — Totally Disabled because of Individual Unemployability 1. Eligibility for additional allowance for dependents—spouse, children, dependent parent(s). 2. Eligibility for additional aid and attendance allowance for disabled spouse. 3. VA fee basis outpatient medical card (all conditions requiring treatment, whether SC or not). 4. Eligibility for any necessary dental care. 5. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 1 (no co-payments required). 6. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 7. Eligibility for long-term VA Nursing Home care for any condition. 8. Eligibility for health care coverage under CHAMPVA for spouse and children (unless they are also eligible for TRICARE). 9. Eligibility for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (RH), including up to $20,000 supplemental insurance beyond regular amount. 10. Waiver of VA life insurance premiums, if under age 65 (but not on additional amounts). 11. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of a creative organ; loss of a female breast; loss or loss of use of one hand, one foot, or one eye; or, loss of use of both buttocks. 12. Possible eligibility for payment of annual clothing allowance for specified SC disorders resulting in need for prosthetic appliance or use of a wheelchair, or for certain skin conditions. 13. Possible eligibility for one-time assistance in purchase of specially-adapted automobile. 14. Possible eligibility for Automobile Adaptive Equipment Allowance. 15. Eligibility for education or training under VA Vocational Rehabilitation. 16. Golden Access Passport for U.S. National Parks. 17. California State Park pass (requires SC wartime-incurred disability) ($3.50 one-time fee). 18. Reduced fee for hunting license. 19. Reduced fee for basic sport fishing license. 20. Home loan guaranty funding fee exemption. 21. Possible eligibility for one-time Special Adapted Housing Assistance. 23. Possible eligibility for Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI). 24. CAL-VET Home Loan Disability Insurance. 25. Eligibility for property tax exemption on principle residence. 26. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. Under certain circumstances, may be employed on a noncompetitive basis. The 10-point preference is also applicable for the spouse and/or natural mother of a permanently totally service disabled veteran. 27. Eligibility for 15-point preference for State of California employment. 28. Eligibility for Dependents’ Education Assistance for spouse and children under 38 U.S.C., Chapter 35. 29. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for spouse and children (Plan A). Requires wartime service. May not be authorized concurrently with VA education assistance under Chapter 35. 30. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B). May be authorized concurrently with VA education assistance under Chapter 35. 31. Eligibility for son(s) and/or daughter(s) to compete for admission to military academies. 32. Possible eligibility for DMV Disabled Person Parking Placard. 33. Withdrawal from SBP program participation (military retirees) after having been rated SC, totally disabled for 10 continuous years, or, if out of service less than 10 years, having been rated SC, totally disabled for at least 5 continuous years from date of last active duty. 2. Eligibility for additional aid and attendance allowance for disabled spouse. 3. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 1 (no co-payments required). 4. VA fee basis outpatient medical card (all conditions requiring treatment, whether SC or not). 5. Eligibility for necessary dental care. 6. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 7. Eligibility for long-term VA Nursing Home care for any condition. 8. Eligibility for health care coverage under CHAMPVA for spouse and children (unless they are also eligible for TRICARE). 9. Eligibility for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (RH), including up to $20,000 supplemental insurance beyond regular amount. 10. Waiver of VA life insurance premiums, if under age 65 (but not on additional amounts). 11. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of a creative organ; loss of a female breast; loss or loss of use of one hand, one foot, or one eye; loss of use of both buttocks; complete deafness in both ears; or, complete organic aphonia (loss of ability to communicate by speech). 12. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss or loss of use of both eyes, both hands, or both feet, or one hand and one foot. Includes paired extremities or organs (one SC, the other NSC, 38 CFR § 3.383) and combinations of losses. 13. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation because of being permanently housebound or having one disability rated 100% plus other conditions independently ratable at 60% or more. 14. Possible eligibility for special monthly compensation because of being so helpless as to require the regular aid and attendance of another person. 15. Possible eligibility for payment of annual clothing allowance for specified SC disorders resulting in need for prosthetic appliance or use of a wheelchair, or for certain skin conditions. 16. Possible eligibility for one-time assistance in purchase of specially-adapted automobile. 17. Possible eligibility for Automobile Adaptive Equipment Allowance. 18. Eligibility for education or training under VA Vocational Rehabilitation. 19. Possible eligibility for one-time Special Adapted Housing Assistance. 20. Possible eligibility for one-time Special Home Adaptation Grant. 21. Possible eligibility for Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI). 22. CAL-VET Home Loan Disability Insurance. 23. Eligibility for property tax exemption on principle residence. 24. Home loan guaranty funding fee exemption. 25. Possible eligibility for Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) home modification grant. 26. Golden Access Passport for U.S. National Parks. 27. California State Park pass (requires SC wartime-incurred disability) ($3.50 one-time fee). 28. Reduced fee for hunting license. 29. Reduced fee for basic sport fishing license. 30. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. Under certain circumstances, may be employed on a noncompetitive basis. The 10-point preference is also applicable for the spouse and/or natural mother of a permanently totally service disabled veteran. 31. Eligibility for 15-point preference for State of California employment. The spouse of a 100% disabled veteran is eligible for 10-point preference. 32. Eligibility for Dependents’ Education Assistance for spouse and children under 38 U.S.C., Chapter 35. 33. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for spouse and children (Plan A). Requires wartime service. May not be authorized concurrently with VA education assistance under Chapter 35. 34. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B). May be authorized concurrently with VA education assistance under Chapter 35. Eligibility for son(s) and/or daughter(s) to compete for admission to military academies. 36. Eligibility for military identification card. 37. Possible eligibility for DMV Disabled Veteran license plates. 38. Eligibility for exemption from vehicle license fees. 39. Withdrawal from SBP program participation (military retirees) after having been rated SC, totally disabled for 10 continuous years, or, if out of service less than 10 years, having been rated SC, totally disabled for at least 5 continuous years from date of last active duty. 1. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 3 (no healthcare co-payments required), unless disability rating warrants assignment to higher Priority Group 1 or 2. 2. Exemption from all pharmacy co-payments, including for NSC medications. 3. VA fee basis outpatient medical card (all conditions requiring treatment, whether SC or not). 4. Eligibility for any and all necessary dental treatment. 5. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—without regard to whether the condition producing need for such is service-connected. 6. Eligibility for exemption from vehicle license fees. 7. California State Parks pass ($3.50 one-time fee). Medal of Honor holders: 1. Entitlement to payment of special Medal of Honor pension (currently $1,027 per month, as of December 2004) in addition to any compensation for SC or other disability, or in addition to NSC disability pension. 2. Eligibility for exemption from vehicle license fees. 3. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for veteran and children (Plan D), but not for spouse or surviving spouse. May be authorized concurrently with VA education assistance under Chapter 35. Nonservice-connected Disability Pension Checklist 1. Minimum of 90 consecutive days of active service or was discharged because of SC disability. If veteran entered service after 1980, the service requirement is 24 continuous months or the full period for which called to active duty, whichever is less, unless discharged sooner because of hardship, reduction-in-force, or SC disability. In any event, at least one day of service must have been during a wartime period. 2. If veteran is under age 65, evidence that veteran is in receipt of any disability benefit administered by the Social Security Administration (either SSA or SSI); or, is a long-term patient in a nursing home because of disability; or, medical evidence showing the veteran is unable to work because of disability. 3. Medical evidence to show that veteran is in need of regular aid and attendance or is housebound (if applicable). 4. Report projected family income—include income from all sources, including farm and/or business. Also list deductions/exclusions—unreimbursed medical expenses, children’s wages, etc. 5. Report net worth. 6. Dependency documents—marriage certificate, birth certificate(s), death certificate(s), divorce decree(s), VA Form(s) 21-674(as applicable). If an adult child is claimed as disabled (helpless), submit appropriate medical evidence in support. B. Benefits: 2. Additional pension payable if veteran served during World War I. 3. VA outpatient medical card if entitled to aid and attendance or housebound benefits, or if a World War I veteran. 4. Enrollment in VA Healthcare Priority Group 4 (no co-payments required) if entitled to aid and attendance or housebound benefits. Enrollment in Priority Group 5 (no co-payments required) if entitled to basic pension. Enrollment in Priority Group 6 (no co-payments required) if a World War I veteran. 5. Eligibility for sensorineural aids—hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses—if housebound or in need of regular aid and attendance. 6. Waiver of VA insurance premiums, if under age 65 (but not on any supplemental RH insurance). Disability Pension (continued) 8. Golden Access Passport for U.S. National Parks. 9. Possible eligibility for DMV Disabled Person Parking Placard. 10. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment. Service-connected Death Checklist 1. Disposition of veteran’s VA check (if any). 2. If veteran was a military retiree, notify service department. 3. VA Form 21-534, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, Death Pension, or Accrued Benefits by a Spouse or Child, for surviving spouse and/or children. VA Form 21-535, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation by Parent(s), for dependent parent(s). 4. VA Form 21-530, Application for Burial Allowance. 5. Veteran’s death certificate or other appropriate proof of death. 6. Medical evidence as needed to relate veteran’s death to service or to SC disability. 7. Dependency documents, if not previously submitted (marriage certificate, birth certificate(s), death certificate(s), divorce decree(s), VA Form(s) 21-674, as applicable). If an adult child is claimed as disabled (helpless), submit appropriate medical evidence in support. 8. Medical evidence to show need for aid and attendance (surviving spouse or dependent parent) or that surviving spouse is housebound, if applicable. 9. Is surviving spouse or either dependent parent also a veteran? B. Benefits: 1. Social Security death payment. 2. Possible VA accrued benefits (if there was an unresolved claim or if there were unnegotiated checks at the time of the veteran’s death). 3. Eligibility for SC burial allowance, headstone or grave marker; U.S. flag; Presidential Memorial Certificate. 4. Life insurance payments (VA, other Government, or commercial). 5. Possible eligibility for additional allowance for surviving spouse or dependent parent on account of being so helpless as to be in need of the regular aid and attendance of another person (includes nursing home patients), or for surviving spouse on account of being housebound. 6. Certificate of Eligibility for home loan guaranty. 7. Eligibility for CAL-VET Home Loan. Service-connected death (continued) 9. Eligibility for property tax exemption on principle residence. 10. Eligibility for Dependents’ Education Assistance benefits under 38 U.S.C., Chapter 35, for surviving spouse and children. 11. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for surviving spouse and children (Plan A). Requires wartime service. May not be authorized concurrently with VA education assistance under Chapter 35. 12. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B). May be authorized concurrently with education assistance under Chapter 35. 13. Eligibility for son(s) and/or daughter(s) to compete for admission to military academies. 14. Eligibility for 10-point preference for Federal Civil Service employment (surviving spouse and/or natural mother). 15. Eligibility for 10-point preference for State of California employment (surviving spouse). 16. If veteran was a military retiree, possible payments under SBP/RSFPP. 17. Eligibility for a military identification card if the veteran was a military retiree or was rated SC, 100% at time of death. 18. Eligibility for health care coverage under CHAMPVA unless there is also eligibility under TRICARE (if the veteran was a military retiree). Nonservice-connected Death Checklist 2. If veteran was a military retiree, notify service department. 3. If veteran was SC and rated totally disabled (100% or IU) at time of death, review for possible DIC. (Generally, requires veteran to have been rated totally disabled for 10 continuous years immediately preceding death. If out of service less than 10 years at time of death, rated totally disabled for at least 5 continuous years, from date of discharge from service to date of death. If a former POW, rated totally disabled for one year immediately preceding death.) 4. VA Form 21-534, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, Death Pension, or Accrued Benefits by a Spouse or Child, for surviving spouse and/or children. 5. VA Form 21-530, Application for Burial Allowance. 6. There is no minimum length of service requirement for DIC. For death pension, veteran must have had a minimum of 90 consecutive days of active service or was discharged because of SC disability. If veteran entered service after 1980, the service requirement is 24 continuous months or the full period for which called to active duty, whichever is less, unless discharged sooner because of hardship, reduction-in-force, or SC disability. In any event, at least one day of service must have been during a wartime period. Note—if veteran died while on active duty under circumstances precluding payment of DIC (i.e., willful misconduct), veteran must have served honorably for at least two years, at least one day of which was during a wartime period. 7. Veteran’s death certificate or other appropriate proof of death. 8. Dependency documents, if not previously submitted (marriage certificate, birth certificate(s), death certificate(s), divorce decree(s), VA Form(s) 21-674, as applicable). If an adult child is claimed as disabled (helpless), submit appropriate medical evidence in support. 9. Report projected family income—include income from all sources, including farm and/or business. Also list deductions/exclusions—veteran’s final expenses, unreimbursed medical expenses, children’s wages, etc. 10. Report net worth. 11. Medical evidence to show that surviving spouse is housebound or in need of regular aid and attendance, if applicable. 12. Is surviving spouse also a veteran? Nonservice-connected death (continued) B. Benefits: 2. Possible VA accrued benefits (if there was an unresolved claim or if there were unnegotiated checks at the time of the veteran’s death). 3. Possible eligibility for burial and/or interment allowance; headstone or grave marker; U.S. flag; Presidential Memorial Certificate. 4. Life insurance payments (VA, other Government, or commercial). 5. Possible additional pension or DIC for surviving spouse on account of being so helpless as to be in need of the regular aid and attendance of another person (includes nursing home patients) or being housebound. 6. Eligibility for CAL–VET Home Mortgage Insurance. 7. Eligibility for property tax exemption on principle residence (if veteran was entitled to such exemption prior to death). 8. If veteran was a military retiree, possible payments under SBP/RSFPP. 9. Eligibility for a military identification card if the veteran was a military retiree or was rated SC, 100% at time of NSC death. 10. Eligibility for Dependents’ Education Assistance benefits under 38 U.S.C., Chapter 35, for surviving spouse and/or children (if veteran was rated SC, permanently totally disabled at time of NSC death). 11. Eligibility for CAL-VET College Tuition and Fee Waiver for children (Plan B) if veteran had a (rated) SC disability at time of death. 12. Eligibility for health care coverage under CHAMPVA unless there is also eligibility under TRICARE (if the veteran was a military retiree) (if veteran was rated SC, permanently totally disabled at time of NSC death). 13. Eligibility for 10-point preference for State of California employment (surviving spouse). |
Each Veteran being cared for has different needs.