While many people know military veterans may receive benefits, defining what those benefits are and how one can qualify to receive them is more complex. So, lets break it down, and cover some of the basics you should know about veteran care and housing benefits, and how you can apply to receive them.
First Things First: How Does the Federal Government Define a Veteran?
According to Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations, a veteran is:
a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.
This means individuals who served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or the Coast Guard and received an honorable discharge are rightly veterans. It's not limited to those who were activated or served in a war zone. All members of the military who served and ultimately left the military under honorable circumstances are veterans. Understanding this definition provides the foundation for getting benefits.
The Different Types of Military Service
The type of service most people think of is full-time or active duty. Military members in this category may be called to serve any time. The only exceptions are active-duty military who are on an authorized leave or who have received a pass (authorized time off.) Serving as active duty for certain amounts of time does impact the ability to receive certain veteran benefits.
Part-time military typically serve a minimum of one weekend per month, plus two full weeks of training per calendar year in the Reserves or as members of the National Guard. Part-time status is usually not enough to qualify for many types of benefits. However, part-time military can be called into active duty for extended periods of time. Should the amount of time spent as ADT reach a certain level, a broader range of benefits may be available. There are different provisions that would apply for National Guard members versus Reserve members.
What Sorts of Benefits are Available to Veterans?
These benefits generally apply to those who served as active duty for a minimum number of years. In some cases, part-time veterans might accrue enough full-time duty to qualify for some of these benefits:
Counseling: Veterans who need counseling as the result of performing their duties or undergoing some sort of life trauma may see a qualified therapist or counselor for free or minimal charges.
Housing and home loan benefits: Because all veterans deserve a safe place to live, these benefits may focus on helping to cover home purchase costs or financing for buying a residential property. There may also be supported to help a veteran lease an apartment or house.
Job Training: Along with skills and education obtained while in the service, veterans may qualify for ongoing education for a particular trade or career path. The training may take place at a training facility, a community college, a technical school, or a university. In some cases, the benefits may also apply for an apprenticeship.
Small Business Financing: A veteran who starts or buys a small business may qualify for benefits that help the operation to get established or expand through start-up loans or capital for expansion. These types of financing are overseen by the Small Business Administration.
Access to Medical Care: General medical care may be offered through facilities that operate especially for military personnel, either active duty or those who are honorably discharged. That includes clinics, doctors' offices, dental services, and other forms of basic medical care. There are also benefits for treating ongoing ailments or severe injuries that typically involve visits to a hospital or medical center operated by the Veterans Administration.
Disability Compensation: A veteran may receive ongoing compensation if they are disabled to provide them a measure of financial stability. When bundled with other sources of disability support, this compensation ensures a veteran has enough income to enjoy a decent standard of living.
Pensions: Veterans who qualify based on the type and duration of service may receive pensions. As with other forms of compensation, the military pension provides a necessary measure of financial security.
Do All Veterans Get Benefits?
Not all veterans are eligible for various benefits. Those most likely to qualify for the most benefits are those who served full-time and successfully fulfilled their military commitment, which includes an honorable discharge.
Part-time veterans, on the other hand, are not likely to qualify for some or all benefits. This would include those who served in the National Guard or the Reserves. While it's true that they do have short periods of active-duty time, those are typical during training and are not sufficient to qualify. An exception would be if those part-time members were activated by the federal government and served full-time for the minimum required.
Veterans who are dishonorably discharged typically lose access to all or most types of benefits. This would be true for full-time or active-duty military, as well as part-time military who would have otherwise served enough full time to qualify.
How to Apply for Veterans Benefits?
There are multiple ways to apply for veteran benefits. In general, it's possible to submit applications in-person at most VA locations, but any benefits applications can be submitted online. There is always an option to fill out applications and submit them by post.
For example, say you want to receive the veterans aid and attendance benefit. This benefit is for full-time veterans who served a minimum of 90 consecutive days of active duty, with at least one full day of that duty taking place during wartime. The applicant must also qualify for a basic pension and meet other financial and clinical requirements. Complete the VA Form 21-2680 and mail it to the nearest pension management center. You can also apply in-person at the nearest Veterans Regional Office. It can be confusing to navigate the forms and documentation needed to apply for benefits. To simplify the process, work through a partner who can help you qualify and apply for the benefits you deserve. For example, Talem Home Care partners with the Vet Assist Program to help veteran at no cost. This assistance saves you a lot of time and helps you identify benefits you may have otherwise overlooked.
Benefits for the Children of Veterans
Children of veterans may be eligible to receive several types of benefits related to education, healthcare, housing expenses, and job training. If the vet is deceased, the offspring may be able to claim benefits to help with burial expenses, as well as a survivor pension.
Do veteran's widows get benefits?
Surviving spouses of deceased vets qualify for the same benefits as the children. This includes access to a monthly pension; help with burial expenses; job training costs; and help to offset the cost of affordable housing.
Whether you're a veteran curious about your available benefits or the surviving spouse or child of a vet, it pays to find out what benefits you're entitled to receive. Rather than wading through all the red tape to find the information that you need, contact Talem Home Care Broomfield at(720) 797-8548. You may be pleasantly surprised at how many benefits are yours once you take the time to apply.
This Veterans Day, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation with unwavering dedication. Your military service demonstrated a profound commitment to protecting America's future and now it's time to protect your family's future through thoughtful estate planning I call Life & Legacy Planning. Just as you approached missions with precision and care during your service, attending to your Life & Legacy Planning with the same attention to detail can ensure your loved ones are well-cared for and your legacy is preserved. In this article, I will help you understand the unique estate planning opportunities available to veterans and the steps you can take to secure your family's tomorrow. Lets start with veterans' benefits.Understanding Your Veterans BenefitsYour military service has earned you and your family special benefits that extend beyond your lifetime. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several programs that can provide for your loved ones after you're gone. Your spouse may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), if you pass away due to a service-connected condition. Additionally, your family might qualify for burial benefits, including a free burial plot in a national cemetery, a headstone or marker, and a burial flag. To ensure your family can access these benefits, keep your discharge papers (DD Form 214) with your estate planning documents and inform your executor of their location. You should also maintain a current list of all VA benefits you receive, as this information will be crucial for your family to continue receiving eligible benefits. When you work with me to create your Life & Legacy Plan, I will help you organize the information your family will need so theyll know for sure theyll receive all the benefits they are entitled to. No guessing, no extra work, and no lost benefits simply because they didnt know what was available to them.Creating Your Estate Planning StrategyLife & Legacy Planning for veterans requires careful consideration of both military and civilian assets. I recommend you create a comprehensive list of your assets, including:Military pension and retirement accountsLife insurance policies (both military and private)Property and real estateInvestment accountsPersonal possessions with monetary or sentimental valueWhen you meet with me for a Life & Legacy Planning Session, I will support you to create this inventory before we create your plan, because this inventory is incredibly important. Without an inventory, your family will not know how to find your assets and assets you care about could easily get lost or be difficult to find. Once you have created your inventory, well meet for up to 2 hours and review your assets, your benefits, your family dynamics and your desires, values, and wishes for what you want to happen with everything you own and everyone you love, in the event of your incapacity, or eventual death. Well go through your asset inventory, and Ill tell you what will happen to each under your current estate plan. Ill also tell you what will happen to your loved ones, including your minor children. Armed with this knowledge, youll then decide on the right plan for you, based on whats important to you and in alignment with your budget. Note that service members can create basic estate planning documents through the military legal assistance office at no cost. This may or may not be an adequate option for you, depending on your needs. For example, if you have minor children, you need a comprehensive plan that will keep your children from being taken into the care of strangers or raised by people youd never want to raise them, if something happens to you. Or, if you have a blended family, no children, a business, a child with special needs, or significant assets, you need a comprehensive plan that will keep your family out of court and conflict, which a free, documents-only plan will not do. Finally, for your plan to work when you need it to, your plan needs regular reviews and updates as your life changes, your family dynamics change, and your assets change. A free, documents-only plan is just that - documents. You wont have a trusted advisor who has your back and will ensure your plan stays updated over time. But you get all these benefits (regular reviews, a comprehensive plan that keeps your family out of court and conflict, etc.) when you work with me and create a Life & Legacy Plan. So I encourage you to educate yourself before creating a plan based only on documents. I have many free resources for you on my website to help, or you can book a complimentary consult call with me using the booking link below.Working with a Trusted AdvisorWhile the military legal assistance office provides valuable services, you may benefit from working with an attorney who understands both veterans' benefits and estate planning, especially if you have a potentially complex situation, like a blended family, a family member with special needs, a debilitating illness, no children (yes, this is often a complex matter, not a simple one!), or many varied assets. A competent attorney can help you:Structure your estate to maximize benefits for your survivorsCreate trusts to protect assets if you need long-term careNavigate complex VA regulationsEnsure your estate plan complies with state and federal lawsUpdate your plan as laws and regulations changePlease book a complimentary call with us below for more information and guidance about whats right for you and your loved ones.Your service to our nation demonstrates your commitment to protecting what matters most. Now, it's time to protect your own legacy through careful estate planning. By taking these steps, you're continuing your tradition of service by ensuring your family's security and well-being. Remember that Life & Legacy Planning isn't a one-time task. Its imperative to review your plan regularly, especially after major life changes like marriage, divorce, a birth, or significant changes in your financial situation. When you work with me, we include regular reviews to ensure your plan works when you and your loved ones need it. You deserve the peace of mind that comes from creating a comprehensive Life & Legacy Plan. Its one of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones, and it's a fitting way to honor the sacrifices you've made in service to our country.How We Help You Honor and Protect Your LegacyVeterans have already given so much in service to our country you shouldn't have to worry about your family facing legal challenges or missing out on earned benefits. As an Estate Planning Law Firm, we help you create a Life & Legacy Plan that honors your military service by ensuring your loved ones stay out of court and conflict, while maximizing the benefits you've earned through your service. Once you've created your plan, you can rest easy knowing your wishes will be honored and your family will be protected with the same dedication you showed to protecting our nation.Contact Entrusted Legacy Law at 412-347-1731 or click here to schedule a complimentary 15-Minute call.
Selling a home that has been lived in for many years can be a difficult process whether a loved one has passed or is just moving into a nursing home. Many memories have been made that hold a multitude of emotions and it is hard to let it all go. Here are a few steps to help ease the stress of preparing your loved ones home for sale.Be PatientIf time isnt of the essence put a 60-90 day freeze on all decision making. During that time leave everything in the home as-is except for expiring food, medicines, and anything else that could leave a bad odor. This hold-over time period will give friends and family time to grieve, time to process the options, and time to remember the home exactly how it was while your loved one still lived there.Get Expert HelpA lawyer should be one of your first calls as they can help get the necessary paperwork in order such as a power of attorney and will. They can also help you navigate through probate. Seeking legal advice about selling a home is always advised as it can greatly affect the title of the home.Next, a realtor will be able to talk about all of your options when it comes to selling. Since a realtor doesnt have any emotional attachment to the house, they will be able to be matter of fact and tell you the current market value of the home. A realtor will also let you know which items should be updated to get the most money out of the house.DeclutterIt can be difficult to let things go, but a house must be de-personalized in order to sell for top dollar. If the process is too difficult or daunting to do on your own, you might consider hiring an estate sale company to host an estate sale. If this is the route you go, it is best to step away from the process and let the professionals do their job.If you prefer to go through items yourself, consider hiring an appraiser or specialist to look at antiques to find out their true value. Less valuable items can be donated so you know they are going to a good home. Non-profit businesses that are usually seeking donations include Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity Restores.Update/RepairsA lived-in home will have signs of wear & tear. At a minimum fix cracked tiles, patch holes in walls, give the home a coat of fresh neutral paint, replace burned out lightbulbs, and remove curtains to let the most light in. You might also consider installing new carpet and flooring.To get the most money out of the home, consider doing a kitchen and bathroom remodel as those spaces tend to be the biggest selling points of a house. If you dont have time for a major renovation you can update simple items such as replacing light fixtures, faucets, and hinges. In the bathrooms add a few stacked washcloths tied with a ribbon, add lightly scented candles, and buy matching bathmats & towels in a light green, blue or white tone.Your realtor might also suggest hiring a professional stager, who will bring in contemporary furniture to enhance the homes attractiveness to potential buyers.Clean, Clean, CleanOne of the last steps inside the home is to give it a good cleaning. If you dont mind putting in the elbow grease, then begin with washing the windows, vacuuming, dusting, wiping down all surfaces, and polishing appliances. You can also consider hiring a cleaning company, who can come in and make the home sparkle in just a few hours.Curb AppealLastly, spruce up the landscaping and front entrance of the home which might have become neglected. Trim shrubs, add flowers, mow the lawn, give the front door a fresh coat of paint, and paint faded trim. In addition, certain buyers loan types such as FHA & VA will require rotted deck boards be replaced, that peeling paint is fixed, and any broken windows be repaired.If you are ready to take the next step in selling, call lMike Lies with Gold Compass Real Estate at 303-325-5690.
Caring for a loved one can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it also comes with its challenges. Family caregivers often wear multiple hats, juggling work, family, and caregiving responsibilities. Knowing where to turn for help can make all the difference in managing the stress and ensuring your loved one receives the best possible care. Here are some essential resources every family caregiver should be aware of:Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)AAAs provide a wealth of information and services tailored to seniors and their caregivers. From meal delivery and transportation to caregiver training and respite care programs, these agencies are a critical first step for many caregivers. You can find your local AAA through the Eldercare Locator.Support GroupsCaregiving can feel isolating, but youre not alone. Support groupsboth in-person and onlineconnect you with others who understand your journey. Platforms like Family Caregiver Alliance or local support groups can offer emotional support, practical tips, and a sense of community.Respite Care ServicesTaking care of yourself is vital to being an effective caregiver. Respite care offers short-term relief by providing professional caregiving services, either at home or in a care facility. Check with local senior care providers, such as our team at Elderlink Home Care, Inc., to learn more about these options.Financial Assistance ProgramsThe costs of caregiving can add up quickly. Programs like Medicaid Waivers, Veterans Aid and Attendance benefits, and local state assistance programs can provide financial relief. Additionally, many states offer stipends or tax credits for family caregivers.Technology Tools for CaregivingModern technology has made caregiving more manageable. Apps like CaringBridge and CareZone help you organize medical records, schedules, and communication with other family members. Medication reminder tools and wearable devices can also provide peace of mind.Caregiver Education and TrainingBecoming a caregiver often requires learning new skills. Organizations like the Alzheimers Association and AARP offer online courses, workshops, and guides to help you handle medical tasks, improve communication, and navigate the complexities of caregiving.Professional Home Care ServicesSometimes, partnering with a professional caregiver can provide the support you need. Home care services like those offered by Elderlink Home Care, Inc. allow your loved one to remain in the comfort of their home while receiving expert assistance with daily activities, personal care, and companionship.Legal and Financial Planning ResourcesHaving the proper legal and financial documents in place is crucial. Organizations like Legal Aid and National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can guide you in preparing essential documents, such as powers of attorney and advanced directives, ensuring your loved ones wishes are honored.Caregiver Counseling ServicesThe emotional toll of caregiving is real. Many mental health professionals specialize in helping caregivers navigate stress, grief, and burnout. Look for local therapists or online counseling services to prioritize your mental health.Meals on Wheels and Nutrition ServicesEnsuring your loved one eats well is a top priority. Programs like Meals on Wheels provide healthy, affordable meals delivered right to their door. Many community centers and churches also offer meal services for seniors.Final ThoughtsBeing a family caregiver is no small task, but you dont have to go it alone. By tapping into these resources, you can find the support you need to provide the best care possible for your loved one while maintaining your own well-being.At Elderlink Home Care, Inc., were here to help. Whether you need professional caregiving services or advice on navigating the complexities of senior care, feel free to contact us for guidance and support.Remember: Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved one. Dont hesitate to reach out for helpits a sign of strength, not weakness!Question, please call us at 303-734-0641.
Your Family is Our Family!At Talem Home Care, we are proud to be one of Colorado's premier senior care life enrichment companies, dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for aging individuals. Aging shouldn't be stressful or uncertain. Every family deserves access to the best information and support to make informed decisions for their loved ones.As a life enrichment company specializing in senior care, our mission is to provide holistic support through these key principles: - Comprehensive Senior Care - Wellness-Focused Services - Engagement and Social Interaction - Personalized Senior Care - Community Connection - Positive ImpactOur team of Certified Senior Advisors is dedicated to providing expert advice, professionalism, and compassion, reassuring families as they navigate the aging process.Our ServicesAt Talem Home Care, we offer a broad range of senior-focused services designed to support the well-being and independence of seniors: - Senior Placement Services - Home Care Services - Free Care Navigation & Advocation - Veterans Care - Alzheimers and Dementia Care - Hospice Support - Life Enrichment Program - Photo Reminiscence Therapy (PRT) Our VisionOur vision is to empower people to experience the full joy of living. This core belief drives everything we do at Talem Home Care. We aim to help our staff, clients, and community partners achieve their goals by providing every opportunity for success.At Talem, we recognize that our dedicated staff is key to our success. Thats why we prioritize creating a supportive, family-friendly work environment that is flexible, low-stress and focused on delivering the best customer care.For Our ClientsOur senior care services promote greater independence, self-confidence, and the freedom to live on their terms. For Our Community Talem Home Care - Broomfield takes pride in being a responsible community partner dedicated to improving the quality of life for the communities we serve. We also respect the importance of work-life balance and celebrate the diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds that make us who we are. Whether you need home care, care management, senior placement, veterans care, Alzheimers and dementia care, hospice support, medical equipment, or even someone to help with daily tasks like snow shoveling, Talem Home Care is here to help.
Your Family is Our Family!At Talem Home Care, we are proud to be one of Colorado's premier senior care life enrichment companies, dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for aging individuals.Aging shouldn't be stressful or uncertain. Every family deserves access to the best information and support to make informed decisions for their loved ones.As a life enrichment company specializing in senior care, our mission is to provide holistic support through these key principles: - Comprehensive Senior Care - Wellness-Focused Services - Engagement and Social Interaction - Personalized Senior Care - Community Connection - Positive ImpactOur team of Certified Senior Advisors is dedicated to providing expert advice, professionalism, and compassion, reassuring families as they navigate the aging process.Our ServicesAt Talem Home Care, we offer a broad range of senior-focused services designed to support the well-being and independence of seniors: - Home Care Services - Free Care Management - Senior Placement Services - Veterans Care - Alzheimers and Dementia Care - Hospice Support - Life Enrichment Program - Photo Reminiscence Therapy (PRT)Our VisionOur vision is to empower people to experience the full joy of living. This core belief drives everything we do at Talem Home Care. We aim to help our staff, clients, and community partners achieve their goals by providing every opportunity for success.At Talem, we recognize that our dedicated staff is key to our success. Thats why we prioritize creating a supportive, family-friendly work environment that is flexible, low-stress and focused on delivering the best customer care.For Our ClientsOur senior care services promote greater independence, self-confidence, and the freedom to live on their terms.For Our CommunityTalem Home Care - Broomfield takes pride in being a responsible community partner dedicated to improving the quality of life for the communities we serve. We also respect the importance of work-life balance and celebrate the diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds that make us who we are.Whether you need home care, care management, senior placement, veterans care, Alzheimers and dementia care, hospice support, medical equipment, or even someone to help with daily tasks like snow shoveling, Talem Home Care is here to help.
Your Family is Our Family!At Talem Home Care, we are proud to be one of Colorado's premier senior care life enrichment companies, dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for aging individuals. Aging shouldn't be stressful or uncertain. Every family deserves access to the best information and support to make informed decisions for their loved ones.As a life enrichment company specializing in senior care, our mission is to provide holistic support through these key principles: - Comprehensive Senior Care - Wellness-Focused Services - Engagement and Social Interaction - Personalized Senior Care - Community Connection - Positive ImpactOur team of Certified Senior Advisors is dedicated to providing expert advice, professionalism, and compassion, reassuring families as they navigate the aging process.Let us help you find the appropriate senior living community!!Our ServicesAt Talem Home Care, we offer a broad range of senior-focused services designed to support the well-being and independence of seniors: - Senior Placement Services - Home Care Services - Free Care Navigation & Advocation - Veterans Care - Alzheimers and Dementia Care - Hospice Support - Life Enrichment Program - Photo Reminiscence Therapy (PRT) Our VisionOur vision is to empower people to experience the full joy of living. This core belief drives everything we do at Talem Home Care. We aim to help our staff, clients, and community partners achieve their goals by providing every opportunity for success.At Talem, we recognize that our dedicated staff is key to our success. Thats why we prioritize creating a supportive, family-friendly work environment that is flexible, low-stress and focused on delivering the best customer care.For Our ClientsOur senior care services promote greater independence, self-confidence, and the freedom to live on their terms. For Our Community Talem Home Care - Broomfield takes pride in being a responsible community partner dedicated to improving the quality of life for the communities we serve. We also respect the importance of work-life balance and celebrate the diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds that make us who we are. Whether you need home care, care management, senior placement, veterans care, Alzheimers and dementia care, hospice support, medical equipment, or even someone to help with daily tasks like snow shoveling, Talem Home Care is here to help.