Effective Date: October 1, 2015 - May 31, 2025
MAGI-Based Eligibility Groups
Members whose eligibility is determined for a MAGI-based eligibility group are not required to apply for VA benefits. This is because the VA benefits do not count as income for the MAGI-based income determination.
Non-MAGI-Based Eligibility Groups
Members whose eligibility is determined for a non-MAGI-based eligibility group, and who are not already receiving VA income benefits such as a pension or compensation, must apply for them if they could possibly be eligible. They must apply for and elect to receive the highest payment to which they are entitled. If a member could receive a higher benefit than they are currently receiving, they must apply to receive the higher benefit.
Most single veterans or surviving spouses will only receive a $90 payment after they enter a nursing home. (See 415-2)
Members do not have to apply for VA benefits that do not count as income. Examples of exempt income include VA Unusual Medical Expenses and VA Aid and Attendance.
A veteran may receive an augmented benefit for dependents. Dependents include spouses (who are still married to the veteran) and children. (415-2)
If the dependent lives with the veteran, the augmented portion is income to the dependent.
If the dependent does not live with the veteran, the augmented portion is not counted as income. If the dependent is eligible for Medicaid, the dependent must apply with the VA to receive the payment directly. This is called apportionment.
If apportionment is approved, the apportioned income is countable income to the dependent. This income counts even if the veteran is the representative payee and still receives the payment on behalf of the dependent.
If the dependent has been denied apportionment since living apart from the designated beneficiary, do not require the dependent to apply again. The augmented portion will remain exempt.