How Veterans Benefits Can Work Together with Medicaid Coverage

Elder care costs thousands of dollars a month and is an expense that can exceed the financial resources of many individuals and families. The cost can be even more concerning for veterans, who often face special health challenges in addition to the usual effects of aging. Fortunately, there are government assistance programs available to offset these costs. The VA and Medicaid are two common sources of assistance and the two plans can sometimes be used together. However, there are strict eligibility requirements that must be considered in advance of applying.

The Veterans Administration provides several different types of compensation for veterans and their surviving spouses and dependents. In addition to pensions, the VA offers Aid & Attendance benefits and Housebound benefits to qualifying veterans. Currently, the maximum Aid & Attendance benefit amount is approximately $2,000 a month while the maximum Housebound benefit is about $1,500 a month.

Connecticut’s Medicaid program, known as HUSKY Health, covers the cost of nursing home care for elderly and disabled residents of limited financial means. It also covers in-home personal care, but only under limited circumstances. Eligibility for HUSKY health depends on many factors, including income, assets, family size and age

If you are eligible for both the VA and Medicaid programs, you may need to make a choice between the two. This is because HUSKY Health counts income from any source, including VA benefits, as income, and if your income rises above a certain level you lose Medicaid eligibility.

Medicaid is the better option for those who require nursing home care, while VA benefits are better for home care or assisted living. In some situations, however, it may be beneficial to pursue both programs. For example, with married couples, one spouse could receive VA benefits while the other receives Medicaid. There are also situations where a person might receive both types of benefits but at different times in their lives.

The VA and HUSKY Health have intricate eligibility rules and application procedures, so it is wise to seek assistance from a qualified elder law attorney who can help you navigate both programs.

The lawyers of Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, L.L.C. help veterans and their families understand these programs and obtain much needed benefits. To arrange a consultation with one of our attorneys in Hamden or East Haven, please call 203-745-0942 or contact us online.