My mom is getting Aide & Attendant but the bulk of it goes to the company that is keeping her 'in compliance'. If I could just get a clear idea of how to do that, I could use all of the money for her care instead of the few hours she gets from the healthcare company that is handling it.
To receive the maximum amount the claimant must have Net Income for VA Purposes (IVAP) of $0.
To calculate IVAP begin with GROSS income from all sources.
The claimant then deducts from gross income eligible Unreimbursed Medical Expenses (UME) which may include virtually any ongoing, regular medically related expense including the cost of Medicare insurance premiums (Part B, D, and supplements), life alert systems, physician and Rx co-pays, transportation expenses, durable medical equipment rentals, the cost of home care (provided by an agency or privately), and assisted living facility room and board.
Private household expenses are not deductible.
A deductible of $35.95 per month is then applied. If the net result is $0 or less, the full pension award will be granted. If the net result is below the maximum pension benefit of $1,149, then a partial award may be granted.
The benefit is paid directly to the claimant by monthly electronic transfer. The claimant then pays their expenses from these funds. The claimant is free to use any provider they choose and may change providers at will. The VA must be notified of any changes in income or expenses.
I am very interested to learn what you mean by "the bulk of it goes to the company that is keeping her in compliance". What does that mean? Is she receiving services from a home care company that applied for the benefit for her?