Roughly 2 million military veterans, their spouses or surviving partners leave unclaimed as much as $22 billion in pensions across the country, Doug Fritzie told a local group Tuesday.
Part of Fritzie’s task, with LT Care Solutions, is to assist those in need with improved pensions through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
More than 60 Iolans listened to Fritzie’s presentation at Tara Gardens.
Fritzie said the V.A.’s Aid and Attendance Pension program allows eligible veterans, their spouses or widows to receive up to $23,396 annually in benefits.
Recipients are rated partly on need, but they are not necessarily considered low-income, Fritzie said. Rather, a formula comparing assets minus expenses determines who receives the aid, and by how much.
Fritzie also spelled out who qualifies: those who served at least 90 days on active duty with at least one day served during a declared state of war; that they be honorably discharged; and that they be disabled or at least 65.
To put it more succinctly, “it’s dictated by a doctor’s referral,” Fritzie said. “You must need help of some sort in a long-term care facility or in your home.”
The designation is important, Fritzie said, because it is not restricted solely for those living in assisted care facilities.
Fritzie, in response to a question, said a healthy veteran with a spouse in need of care also qualifies.
He encouraged applicants to research their cases before applying for benefits. An unsuccessful application could result in a two-year delay in benefits.
He encouraged those to either contact him at LT Care Solutions, an organization that aids those engaged in long-term planning, or through other veterans groups before applying. LT Care Solutions can be reached at (316) 945-2011.
Unclaimed pensions addressed
