VeTALKX: Survivors & Caregivers Together - Memorial Day Q&A. Ask Your Questions Now!

2024-04-29 12:51:51 -0400

On May 23rd at 1pm EST the Department of Veterans Affairs and our community partners, to include Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), American Red Cross Military Veteran Caregiver Network, Blue Star Families, and Elizabeth Dole Foundation will be here to answer questions about survivor resources, caregiver support, memorial affairs, and mental wellness.

Ask your questions now! (Typed Q&A format. No audio/visual)

You can ask questions to the following people/organizations:
» Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support Program
» Sgt Jay Dalrymple - Director, National Cemetery Scheduling Office, VA
» Sgt Christopher Vidaurre - Senior Program Manager, George W. Bush Institute
» Melissa Comeau - Director, Military and Veteran Caregiver Network, American Red Cross
» SGT Rafiq Raza - National Director, Survivors Assistance & Memorial Support, VA
» RDML Ann Duff - Director, Office of Survivors Assistance, VA
» Marianne Delatorre - Community Engagement Manager, Elizabeth Dole Foundation
» AB Bonnie Carroll - President and Founder, TAPS

Elizabeth Dole Foundation:
The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 5.5 million military caregivers; the spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured veterans. Founded by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation adopts a comprehensive approach in its advocacy, working with leaders in the public, private, nonprofit and faith communities to recognize military caregivers’ service and promote their well-being.

Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS):
TAPS is the national nonprofit organization providing compassionate care and comprehensive resources to all those grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one.

Response by 1st Lt Padre Dave Poedel made May 2 at 2024 2:38 PM

2024-05-02 14:38:56 -0400

I was pleasantly surprised in my latest email from the VA that there is a whole set of programs to help veterans become farmers and bee-keepers. I like it when something good comes out of our bureacracy!

Response by CPT David Gowel made May 15 at 2024 6:42 PM

2024-05-15 18:42:16 -0400

Thanks for all the important work you do for our community. On this topic, how do we learn about our specific memorial benefits. Is it based on disability status, years served, retiree vs separated, other?

Response by Charlene Powers made May 15 at 2024 11:41 PM

2024-05-15 23:41:22 -0400

My husband was a disabled Vietnam veteran and I am not allowed medical care inside the VA, why?

Response by Thomas Duca made May 16 at 2024 10:14 AM

2024-05-16 10:14:38 -0400

My husband has been 100 percent VA disabled for 6 years now and I've still yet not received my medical benefits as his spouse. I know I'm entitled to them. A d yes I've seen advocates on more than one occasion

Response by SGT David Felten made May 22 at 2024 7:29 PM

2024-05-22 19:29:01 -0400

I filed appeals for my Caregiver Assistance Claim. My last requested a judicial review. It is going on 3 years and I have still not received a decision. My loving spouse of close to 55 years continues to be my loyal and dedicated caregiver even though she is burdened with her own disability. As I stated in my original appeal, the rejection of this claim is unjust.
David Felten
1012
[login to see]

Response by LCpl Harry Hallock Jr. made May 22 at 2024 9:18 PM

2024-05-22 21:18:00 -0400

IM A VET FROM VIET NAM AND WAS STATION IN N.C. AS WELL AS MY YOUNGER BROTHER WHO PASS BECAUSE OF THE GREAT DRINKING WATER THEY HAD BACK IN THE SIXTIES AND AS MUCH AS WE BOTH DRANK WHEN THERE IM STILL VERY LUCKY TO STILL BE HERE BUT AS FOR BY BROTHER GOD REST HIS SOLE HE GOT HIS PAY WHEN THEY SENT HIM HOME WITH STAGE 4 AFTER FIGHTING THE VA 14 YRS WELL I DIDN'T DO LIKE HE DID IF I DID I BEEN GONE LONG TIME AGO BUT STILL HAVING MEDICAL ISSUE FILED FOR WHATEVER COMPENSATION THEY HAVE TO OFFER BUT LIKE TO KNOW WHEN THAT WILL HAPPEN WHO WILL BE KIND ENOUGH TO ANSWER THAT QUESTION HOPE SOON BEFORE I PASS LIKE MY YOUNGER BROTHER DID.

THANK YOU
HARRY HALLOCK JR

Response by PO2 Stephen Griffin made May 22 at 2024 9:57 PM

2024-05-22 21:57:18 -0400

Hey, I am 60 with early cognitive issues and chronic fatigue... I have been receiving a veterans disability pension and just started receiving SSDI so I think the VA pension may/should stop... I really could use a caregiver... I had one before through the county/state but it was terminated a couple of months before I started receiving SSDI... I'm not sure what to do?

Response by PFC Robert Xavier Betancourt Junior made May 22 at 2024 10:51 PM

2024-05-22 22:51:28 -0400

Will there be assistance to go electric wheelchair van for disabled veterans?

Response by Jean Donnay made May 22 at 2024 11:01 PM

2024-05-22 23:01:07 -0400

I recently moved to a smaller home after my husband, 100 per cent SC died from complications of Agent Orange exposure. I was saddened to learn that my property tax relief would be given to the buyer, for the second half of 2034. And that I wouldn’t have that benefit on my new house as well as need to reapply for 2035. It just doesn’t seem right!

Response by Nancy Gable made May 23 at 2024 1:41 AM

2024-05-23 01:41:40 -0400

@ VACSP:
Suppose a veteran has a disability claim [Claim 1] on appeal for several years and finally receives a decision granting service connection for that disability with a rating of 100% permanent and total effective the date of the claim filing. And also suppose that after filing that claim and more than a year, let's say 2-3 years, before receiving that decision, the veteran suffers a sudden medical condition while hospitalized for that claimed-but-not-yet-rated service connected disability which now leaves him further disabled and in need of daily caregiver assistance.

After receipt of the 100% rating decision for Claim 1, a disability claim (Claim 2) is filed for service connection secondary to the Claim 1 disability for the medical condition that occurred while hospitalized for the Claim 1 disability, plus a claim is filed for SMC for aid and attendance due to the severity of the combined disabilities.

The decision for Claim 2 is then awarded a 100% rated service connected disability secondary to the Claim 1 disability, and also entitlement to SMC for aid and attendance is granted. The decision establishes the effective date of both as the date of the Claim 2 filing stating that the claim was not received within one year of the Claim 2 disability that caused the eligibility to the special monthly compensation and that when a claim of service connection is received more than one year after discharge from active duty, the effective date is the date VA received the claim. (38 CFR 3.350, 38 CFR 3.400)

Here are my questions:

1) Is the one-year rule misapplied in this case?

2) Since the decision granting the Claim 1 service connected disability at 100% is received more than a year AFTER the occurrence of the Claim 2 disability and established as effective date PRIOR to the Claim 2 disability, should both the veteran's Claim 2 disability established as secondary to the Claim 1 disability and SMC for aid and attendance be granted effective the date the Claim 2 disability occurred?

3) The veteran requires daily caregiver assistance since the occurrence of the Claim 2 disability, but the primary caregiver does not qualify to apply for the PCAFC until after the decision granting the Claim 1 service connected disability at 100% is received, which was more than a year AFTER the occurrence of the Claim 2 disability but effective PRIOR to that occurrence. The caregiver is then qualified to apply for and is granted the PCAFC benefits, including the monthly stipend. Should those benefits be granted effective the date the Claim 2 disability occurred, since that's when she would have been eligible to apply?

Response by Sharon Goodwin made May 23 at 2024 8:49 AM

2024-05-23 08:49:52 -0400

My husband was disabled for more than 10 years, he had a 0 percent but received all his medical from VA, I was his caregiver, he passed in 2020 in VA hospital. We filed for Aid and Attendance, Spousal Support, and I am disabled. Am I eligible for support of any kind? I am applying for survivor benefits, but I am getting conflicting information from the VA. I am unsure of what to do and need assistance. I have provided all documents requested. I am not sure what the next step is. I am seeking help to determine what type of benefits I am eligible for.

Response by Mattie Charles made May 23 at 2024 11:54 AM

2024-05-23 11:54:36 -0400

My husband served 23 years in the Air Force and was declared 100% disabled in December 2020, he passed January 2024. I haven’t received any payments from VA since he passed. I applied for DIC and was denied. I am at a loss; did I complete the wrong form? Is there something else I should complete as a SURVIVING SPOUSE?

Response by Melissa Comeau made May 23 at 2024 12:10 PM

2024-05-23 12:10:50 -0400

Greetings! Thank you for joining us today. My name is Melissa Comeau and I am the proud spouse and caregiver to a combat wounded Marine. I am also the Director of the Mlitary and Veteran Caregiver Network at the American Red Cross. We serve caregivers of all eras and Veterans that are also caregivers. We welcome you to join us. Please visit http://www.redcross.org/caregivers for more information.

Military and Veteran Caregiver Network

The Military Veteran Caregiver Network provides our nation’s pre- and post-9/11-era military and veteran caregivers with peer support.

Response by PO3 Matthew "DOC" Campbell made May 23 at 2024 12:21 PM

2024-05-23 12:21:31 -0400

Thank you everyone for joining us today! Reminder this is a Q&A style, no audio/visual. If you have questions on your VA services or benefits, survivor/caregiver support resources, please ask your questions to our amazing VA and Community partners. We thank you for your time and joining us today!

Response by AB Bonnie Carroll made May 23 at 2024 12:25 PM

2024-05-23 12:25:18 -0400

Thank you for joining us today. Memorial Day is a solemn occasion when Americans unite to honor those who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom. For 30 years, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) has been a pillar of support for the families of our nation’s fallen heroes, providing unwavering comfort, care, and resources to those grieving the loss of their loved ones who selflessly served our nation. Whether a service member or veteran dies in combat, by suicide, from illness, or in an accident, TAPS stands ready to support their families and honor their lives, ensuring they are forever remembered by a grateful nation. TAPS is a family. A family of care, compassion and hope. We are here for you, whether you need someone to listen, a shoulder to cry on, a connection to resources, or an opportunity to remember and honor your loved one. If you are in need of support or are looking for way to support surviving military families, please visit https://www.taps.org/ and join the TAPS family.

Tragedy Assistance Program For Survivors (TAPS) Is Here For You!

TAPS provides comfort, care and resources to all those grieving the death of a military loved one.

Response by SFC David Ralph made May 23 at 2024 12:59 PM

2024-05-23 12:59:32 -0400

What is the process to get care giver status through the VA?

Response by Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support Program made May 23 at 2024 12:59 PM

2024-05-23 12:59:34 -0400

Good Afternoon. Thank you for joining us today. The Office Caregiver Support is here to answer any questions and/or provide resources and guidance to help you get the assistance you need. Thank you for your service.

Response by SGT Randell Roberts made May 23 at 2024 1:00 PM

2024-05-23 13:00:13 -0400

I am disabled and have someone (wife) could be my caregiver when I'm now longer to take care of myself. What would be her salary she would have to quit her job and need to know if it would be feasible? Thank you Randell Roberts 2749

Response by Brenda Cadem made May 23 at 2024 1:02 PM

2024-05-23 13:02:27 -0400

What support & financial benefits are available to the spouse with Alzheimer's Disease (and their caregiver) of a deceased 100% Disabled Veteran.

Response by Sgt Christopher Vidaurre made May 23 at 2024 1:08 PM

2024-05-23 13:08:24 -0400

Hello All,

My name is Christopher Vidaurre, I am the Senior Program Manager at the George W. Bush Institute, and I am here on behalf of the Veterans Wellness Alliance to share "Check-In". Check-In is a first-of-its-kind network that unites peer-led organizations and mental and brain health service providers to connect veterans, caregivers, survivors and their families with high-quality care for mental and brain health services at no cost.

Please go to veterancheckin.org and fill out our short form to get connected to care. Once you fill out the form within in 72 business hours our Care Coordinator will reach out to you and find the most appropriate care and get you connected. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.

http://www.veterancheckin.org

Check In

Connecting veterans with the support and services they need to live happier, healthier, more successful lives-and to make sure veterans are treated like people, not case numbers, every step of the care journey.

Response by Marianne Delatorre made May 23 at 2024 1:11 PM

2024-05-23 13:11:54 -0400

Hello! Happy Month of the Military Caregiver! My name is Marianne Delatorre and I am the Community Engagement Manager at the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. We the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 5.5 million military caregivers; the spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured veterans. Founded by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation adopts a comprehensive approach in its advocacy, working with leaders in the public, private, nonprofit and faith communities to recognize military caregivers’ service and promote their well-being.

We have various programs for caregivers:
-Hope Fund for Financial Wellness
-Mental Wellness Workshops
-Campaign for Inclusive Care
-Hidden Heroes Online Caregiver Community (Virtual Peer Support)
-Dole Caregiver Fellowship

Learn more about us here: https://www.elizabethdolefoundation.org/
Sign up for Hidden Heroes here: https://hiddenheroes.org/

The Elizabeth Dole Foundation

Caring for Military Families: Our Vision is an America where military caregivers are empowered, appreciated, and recognized for their service to our nation.

Response by Jacqueline Rosello made May 23 at 2024 1:24 PM

2024-05-23 13:24:32 -0400

What other benefits can I get, being a widow of a service related ALS Vet besides the VACP VA Benefit? I'm thinking of things such as the National Park Passes and other benefits we would have if my husband were still living. If I would qualify for any, how do I go about getting them?

Response by PO3 Matthew "DOC" Campbell made May 23 at 2024 1:37 PM

2024-05-23 13:37:31 -0400

If you want to access VA services or having challenges accessing VA services and benefits, please see our VA Welcome Kit and Quick Start Guides to learn more about how to apply and what you may be eligible to receive: VA WELCOME KIT! https://www.va.gov/welcome-kit/

Print out your VA Welcome Kit | Veterans Affairs

Whether you’re just getting out of the service or you’ve been a civilian for years now, the VA Welcome Kit can help guide you to the benefits and services you’ve earned.Based on where you are in life, your VA benefits and services can support you in different ways. Keep your welcome kit handy so you can turn to it throughout your life—like when it’s time to go to school, get a job, buy a house, get health care, retire, or make plans for your...

Response by PO3 Matthew "DOC" Campbell made May 23 at 2024 1:37 PM

2024-05-23 13:37:55 -0400

Be sure to subscribe to VA's VetResources weekly newsletter here: https://www.va.gov/vetresources/
Resources you can use with VA and in the community.

Veteran Resources - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Response by PO3 Matthew "DOC" Campbell made May 23 at 2024 1:39 PM

2024-05-23 13:39:16 -0400

What is one great resource that caregivers and survivors must know about?

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made May 23 at 2024 1:59 PM

2024-05-23 13:59:51 -0400

One more from a member that posted her question on another page:
https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/how-can-i-receive-survivor-benefits-if-my-military-spouse-did-not-sign-up-upon-retirement

How can I receive Survivor Benefits if my military spouse did not sign up upon retirement? |...

My spouse passed away unexpectedly last year. He did not sign up for Survivor Benefits when he retired and noone told us he could have done that later. His death and loss of benefits has put me as the surviving veteran spouse in a severe financial bind.

Response by AB Bonnie Carroll made May 23 at 2024 2:12 PM

2024-05-23 14:12:27 -0400

We are so grateful to RallyPoint, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and all organizations representing the care and programs for all military service members, veterans, dependents, caregivers, and survivors. Please know TAPS is here 24/7 to provide comfort, care, and resources to all those grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one. We honor our military service members and veterans by caring for all those they loved and left behind. Your TAPS family is here for you at 800-959-TAPS(8277) or https://www.taps.org/. With gratitude and hope.

Tragedy Assistance Program For Survivors (TAPS) Is Here For You!

TAPS provides comfort, care and resources to all those grieving the death of a military loved one.

Response by SrA James Jackson made May 23 at 2024 4:26 PM

2024-05-23 16:26:17 -0400

I’m the brother of James B. Jackson (xxx-xx-6693) I applied for Aid and Attendance Benefits on November 18, 2023 for my brother through the VA claim department, but they haven’t responded. His living condition has got worse.

Before entering my brother’s apartment at the door you can smell rotten or decayed food.

Once, enter you will see flying bugs and roaches ,rodents and trash so pile-up that it falls out the front door and back door when you open the door. Nonoperational utilities (toilet/tub and sink)

Suggestion: Can the VA move him and his wife to another apartment. Or a hotel for two day and have someone come in and clean his apartment. He is 100% Disable and his wife is disable can't walk, plus he is her main caregiver.

I can be reach at [login to see]
Email: [login to see]

Thanks for your help

Vernon Yarber

Response by SrA James Jackson made May 23 at 2024 5:02 PM

2024-05-23 17:02:53 -0400

hillo

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made May 23 at 2024 10:33 PM

2024-05-23 22:33:29 -0400

All that most people care about is their 3 day weekend and barbeques and lots of beer. They tend to forget about the sacrifices that military and veterans have done so that these ungrateful people can have their holiday.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2024 1:53 AM

2024-05-24 01:53:14 -0400

Hello. I am 100% I need to know what benefits my wife will receive after I am gone. Thank you.