Find Help
Explore the Foundation

Cornerstone Veteran Benefits Access Checklist

This checklist will guide you through the process of accessing your VA benefits for home care and other services. Make sure you follow each step carefully to ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.

Verify Veteran Eligibility for VA Health Care

  1. Ensure enrollment in VA Health Care System (if not enrolled, visit VA Enrollment to complete the process)
  2. Confirm eligibility based on service history (Minimum of 90 days active duty, including one day during wartime)

Determine Eligibility for Home Care Services

  1. Complete the VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance) (Form helps determine the need for home care based on the inability to perform daily living activities)
  2. Obtain a doctor’s note or medical evaluation (Documenting need for assistance with daily activities like eating, bathing, dressing, or mobility)
  3. Confirm financial eligibility for Aid & Assistance (Verify income and net worth for eligibility—net worth should be at or below the limit, excluding primary residence and auto)

Submit VA Pension or Aid & Attendance Application

  1. Complete and submit the VA Form 21-534EZ (Application for DIC, Death Pension, and Accrued Benefits) (This form is for pension or Aid & Attendance benefits)
  2. Gather all required financial and medical documentation (Provide income and asset details, and supporting medical documentation for home care need)

Track the Claim Process

  1. Submit your claim via eBenefits or mail (Track status online at eBenefits or contact the VA for updates)
  2. Monitor claim progress and resolve issues (If your claim is denied or delayed, follow up or consider working with a Veterans Service Officer for assistance)

Identify Home Care Providers

  1. Check for VA-authorized home care providers (Ensure home care providers are enrolled in the VA Community Care Network (CCN) or approved by the VA)
  2. Discuss specific care needs with the provider (Ensure the provider offers services aligned with the VA’s guidelines for home care and Aid & Attendance)

Understand Rights and Responsibilities

  1. Review the Veteran’s Bill of Rights for Home Care Services (Understand the rights to quality care and services as guaranteed by the VA)
  2. Know the responsibilities of the veteran and the caregiver (Be clear on the roles and expectations for both the veteran and any caregiver involved)

Ongoing Support & Advocacy

  1. Establish contact with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) (A VSO can assist with applications, follow-up, and resolving issues)
  2. Advocate for the veteran during claims processing (If needed, work with a VSO to appeal any denials or delays in claims)
  3. Keep records of all communications and documents (Track all paperwork, phone calls, emails, and appointments for future reference)

Additional Services and Resources

  1. Inquire about other VA benefits (Explore other programs such as financial aid, housing assistance, and transportation services)
  2. Get support for caregivers (Look into support groups, training, or respite care for family caregivers)

Follow-Up and Review

  1. Review home care services regularly (Assess if the care being provided continues to meet the veteran’s needs)
  2. Update the VA if there are any changes in care needs or living situation (Notify the VA of any changes in health or living conditions to ensure continued eligibility)

Helpful VA Resources

We are grateful to Cornerstone Caregiving for their generous support of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and our nation’s military and veteran caregivers. Their partnership helps us continue our important work. To learn more about the services Cornerstone Caregiving offers, please visit: www.cornerstonecaregiving.com 
Learn more about the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and join our community of military and veteran caregivers at: elizabethdolefoundation.org
Secret Link