Veterans Spotlight: Benefits You Might Not Know About

As we honor those who have served this Veterans Day, it’s important to recognize not only their sacrifices but also the benefits available to veterans and their families. Many veterans in Pennsylvania may not be fully aware of the programs that exist to assist with healthcare, long-term care, and financial well-being. Some of these benefits can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses and improve quality of life.

At Anderson Elder Law, we help veterans, and their families navigate these complex programs, ensuring they receive the full veterans benefits and protections they’ve earned.

1. Aid and Attendance (A&A) Pension

The Aid and Attendance (A&A) pension is one of the most valuable yet underutilized VA benefits for veterans and their spouses. It provides additional financial assistance to veterans who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or eating, and can be used to cover in-home care, assisted living, or nursing home expenses.

Who Qualifies:

• Veterans with at least 90 days of active duty, including one day during a wartime period.

• Those who require assistance with daily living or are bedridden due to disability.

• Surviving spouses of eligible veterans may also qualify.

Given the rising cost of long-term care in Pennsylvania, this benefit can ease financial strain and ensure veterans receive quality care.

2. Pennsylvania Veterans Temporary Assistance (VTA) Program

The VTA Program offers up to $1,600 per year to veterans and their families experiencing short-term financial hardship. It can be used for essentials like rent, food, utilities, and medical expenses.

Eligibility:

• Must have served in the military and reside in Pennsylvania.

• Must demonstrate a temporary financial hardship, such as illness, job loss, or unexpected expenses.

This program provides vital relief during difficult times and can help veterans regain financial stability.

3. Real Estate Tax Exemption

Pennsylvania offers a property tax exemption for honorably discharged veterans who are 100% disabled due to military service.

Eligibility:

• 100% permanent and total disability rating from the VA.

• Must reside in Pennsylvania and demonstrate financial need.

• Applies only to the veteran’s primary residence.

This exemption can result in significant annual savings and help veterans remain in their homes.

4. Veterans’ Trust Fund (VTF)

The Veterans’ Trust Fund provides grants to organizations that serve veterans funding programs for housing, employment, and mental health. While not paid directly to individuals, these grants strengthen community resources that veterans can access through local VA offices.

5. Long-Term Care at Pennsylvania State Veterans Homes

Pennsylvania operates several State Veterans Homes that offer affordable long-term care, personal care, and skilled nursing services for veterans and their spouses:

• Southeastern Veterans' Center (Spring City)

• Southwestern Veterans' Center (Pittsburgh)

• Delaware Valley Veterans' Home (Philadelphia)
  

These homes provide compassionate, veteran-focused care often at a lower cost than private facilities supported by state and VA funding.

6. Veterans Burial Benefits

Eligible veterans in Pennsylvania are entitled to free burial in a state or national veterans cemetery, a government-issued headstone, and military honors. The VA also provides a burial allowance to help cover funeral costs.

Spouses and dependents may be buried alongside the veteran at cemeteries such as Indiantown Gap National Cemetery (Annville) or Washington Crossing National Cemetery (Bucks County).

7. Educational and Career Benefits

Veterans and their families may be eligible for education and job training assistance through PA CareerLink® Veterans Services, the Pennsylvania State Grant Program, and the Military Family Education Program (MFEP), which offers tuition assistance for families of National Guard members.

We’re Here to Help

At Anderson Elder Law, our accredited VA attorneys and experienced team understand how to coordinate veterans’ benefits with long-term care, Medicaid, and estate planning. Whether you’re exploring eligibility, need guidance with an application, or want to create a plan that integrates VA and Medicaid benefits, we’re here to help you make the most of what’s available.

Take the time to review your benefits or encourage a loved one to do so. We can help ensure you receive the support and recognition you’ve earned through service.