A & A / Housebound
Question:
Hi Jim, I am currently 100% disabled veteran, I want to file for either Aid and Attendance or House Bound. I spend most of my time in bed due to my disabilities and requires some aid for my daily activities. Which of the two should I pursue? Thank you.
Jim's Reply:
It sounds as if the A & A benefit may fit your circumstances best. However, I can tell you that either benefit can be an uphill climb to get to.
The key to a smooth application process is attention to detail when completing the VA Form 21-2680 https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-21-2680-ARE.pdf
Attention must be paid to each and every activity of daily living (ADL) even when the VA doesn't emphasize the importance of a particular activity. If someone must remind you each day to floss and brush your teeth, that small detail should be mentioned. You'll see that the form asks that you use extra paper if necessary and I can only comment that you should have plenty of attachments documenting your daily challenges and struggles.
As a rule I like to open a claim with VA by providing them with overwhelming evidence right from the start. If we do that then our chances of prevailing in short order are a lot better than if we leave anything to doubt.
So...go for it but do your homework up front. Provide the rater who will make the decision with so much supporting documentation that he or she has no choice but to grant your application.
Good luck!