Frequently Asked Questions

After a claim for VA Aid and Attendance benefits are approved

The VA will send the retroactive payment with the first benefit payment into the bank account that is on file with the VA. The only exception to this rule is if the VA finds the claimant (Veteran and/or spouse) incompetent and can’t handle the finances, the VA will keep the retro payment until the Fiduciary process is complete, however the VA will pay monthly benefits.

Fiduciary Process

If the VA finds the claimant (Veteran and/or spouse) incompetent and can’t handle the finances, the VA will keep the retro payment until the Fiduciary process is complete. This process can take several months to complete. After a claim for benefits is approved if the VA determines the claimant (Veteran and/or spouse) is incompetent they will propose to rate the claimant incompetent. If you agree with the VA’s findings there is a 60-day waiting period. If you disagree with the VA you can submit evidence from the primary care physician stating the claimant can handle their finances.  Once the 60 days has passed and the VA has not received information disagreeing with the decision, they will then rate the claimant incompetent and send documents to appoint a fiduciary to the case (this would be a family member or a friend).

After the VA receives the fiduciary paperwork and the appointment with a Field Examiner is complete the VA will release the retroactive benefits.

What happens if a single claimant passes away before the claim is rated

If a claimant dies during a pending claim or appeal, someone eligible to receive accrued benefits can act as substitute to complete the claim. This is called a substitutionary claimant; someone can stand in for the claimant until the process is complete. If the file is approved the VA will pay benefits for the months eligible prior to the claimants passing. If the file is denied, no benefits will be paid.

After you are approved for benefits

If the claimant(s) has an address change or if your income increases you are required to update the VA as soon as possible.

*All information contained on this page is subject to change without notice*