VA benefits

Work with a VA benefit expert

Get started with the Aid and Attendance software or work with one of our VA benefit experts. Often, families with complex financial profiles may need to connect with a VA-accredited attorney to ensure they don’t delay their VA Aid and Attendance benefit. Our AidandAttendance.com VA experts will help you navigate the entire process. 

Contact a VA benefit expert  

Submit your intent to file

Once you speak with a VA benefit expert, we recommend you fill out the VA form 21-0966 as soon as possible. If your claim is approved by the VA, you may receive a lump sum retroactively from your intent-to-file date.

Apply for a bridge loan

It can take a while for the VA to review and approve your Aid and Attendance application. If you need funds immediately to move your loved one into care, learn more about our bridge loan, which you can receive in less than 24 hours.

Learn about bridge loans  

Submit your fully developed claim

You’ll need to gather information before you start the pension benefits application process. Make sure you have the following on hand:

• Social Security number or VA file number

• Military history

• Financial information—and your dependents’ financial information

• Bank account direct deposit information (optional)

• Medical information (optional)

If you want guidance through the application or to submit online instead of on paper, our easy online application software on AidandAttendance.com can help.

start your application  

VA review and decision

The VA will reach out to you if they require any additional information. Eventually they will reach their decision, and you may begin receiving monthly benefits. You may also receive the retroactive lump sum from your intent-to-file date, which can be used to pay back your ElderLife Bridge Loan.