Michigan Lawyer Blog
A few bad apples don’t spoil the bushel… Or something like that… As the word spreads about VA benefit planning, unfortunately, the potential of unscrupulous planning also increases. Michigan veterans are enjoying increased access to VA benefits mostly through the hard work of accredited elder law attorneys, accredited agents and Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs).
Benefits like the improved pension benefit, aid and attendance, and the homebound pension benefit, are allowing qualified veterans to receive benefits in order to avoid nursing home placement by supplementing their income to pay for in home care and assisted living. However, the opportunity to use the benefits as a “hook” to sell otherwise non-suitable financial products by “financial planners” is a growing concern of both the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) and Congress. As a result, Congress created a special sub committee to investigate ways to reform regulations and practices regarding VA pension benefits in order to protect veterans from unscrupulous activities. A recent press release from NAELA provides more information about these Congressional hearings.
If you are residing in metro Detroit area, Macomb County, Oakland County, or Wayne County, and, have questions call our firm (586) 264-3756. We offer Elder Law Services. Our Attorneys are NAELA members and are accredited with the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.
Related Posts: VA Benefits 2016 Cost of Living Adjustment, Michigan Elder Law and Long Term Care Planning, VA Rule Changes, Still Time to Help Veterans