We applied for benefits for my mom since she is a widow of a WWII veteran. We read that if a widow receives only Social Security benefits that she is eligible for a good amount of monthly benefits that would help with here care. We waited a year and, finally got a letter stating that she is only eligible for around $200.00 a month. There were some glaring discrepencies in their explanation of the figures...We have a certain ammount of time to reapply, but I want to make sure we are doing everything correctly. I want my mom to have the benefit that my dad earned as a veteran.
If anyone knows about how to do this or who we should contact to help us, please let us know. I was wondering if I should get a lawyer, a paralegal, or contact a VFW. I already went to the veteran's office. They, apparently, didn't give me all of the forms and all of the information that we needed. We really need the financial help to cover expenses of paying for caregivers,etc.
Thank you!!!
Sometimes you have to pick up their fight because the bureaucracy can strip the strength right out of you. That's why I say go to the top of the food chain. They're the ones who have the contacts, while also being the ones who have the most to lose if they don't do their best to assist you.
With my dad, I called the only senator in his state whose name I could remember. I'd forgotten that that particular senator was the chairman of the Armed Services Committee at the time. Within a matter of a few hours, what we needed was set in motion.
And when it was all said and done and my old soldier father had gone home to the Lord, Sam Nunn walked on water as far as I was concerned. He and his staffers went above and beyond to assist us. It's been over twenty years and I still remember their names and sing their praises.
Even better I found out that because I am a widow of a VN vet who died because of a cancer now associated with Agent Orange I qualify for assistance too!!! Now how great is that! I have been living on SS survivor benefits with no insurance. I was not happy to find out that I could have gotten this many years ago....such is life. Now it has been a long wait, I am still waiting, but they do go back to the date of application. Keep all expense records!! OTC medication Rx , doctor or other medical expenses....even equipment purchased for the patient. Think mileage to/from dr etc can be claimed as well...better too much rather than not enough. If you can't get help locally at the VA then call a senator or congressman for help...if I don't get an answer soon I will be calling Adam West for help!! Good luck and let us know what works for you!~
.we have funds to take care of care of our heroes yet we rather spend it on taking care of the zeroes.where are our priorities and do the right thing attitude ,make them take care of our hereo's and their families.
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