Clearing Up VA Confusion: Guiding Clients Through Eligibility, Look-Back Rules & Care Options

Navigating VA benefits can be overwhelming—for both clients and the professionals advising them. From eligibility requirements to look-back rules and care options, understanding the basics is key to helping veterans and their families access the support they’ve earned.

Here’s what advisors need to know:

Understanding Eligibility

VA benefits require three main qualifications: military service, medical need, and discharge status.

Military Service: Eligible service includes active duty during defined wartime periods in any branch of the military—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Space Force, Merchant Marines (WWII only), National Guard, or Reserves. Veterans must have served at least 90 days, with at least one day during a recognized wartime period.

Wartime Periods Include:

• World War I & II (service ending in 1946)
  
• Korean Conflict (1950–1955)
  
• Vietnam War (1964–1975; in-country service 1955–1975)
  
• Gulf War (1990–Present)
  

Medical Need: Veterans must require assistance with at least two Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) or have significant cognitive or physical impairments.

Discharge Status: Any discharge type except dishonorable qualifies.

Financial Considerations

VA benefits are income- and asset-tested:

• Net Worth Limit: $155,356 (assets + annual income)
  
• Exclusions: Primary residence (up to 2 acres), one vehicle, burial contracts/plots, personal property
  
• Income for VA Purposes (IVAP): Includes all income (like Social Security) but excludes unreimbursed medical expenses, such as co-pays, prescriptions, in-home care, or assisted living costs.
  

Why it matters: Planning ahead can protect assets and maximize benefits for your clients.

Look-Back & Penalty Rules

The VA has a 36-month look-back period, reviewing asset transfers prior to applying. Improper transfers may trigger a penalty period of up to 5 years before benefits begin. Some assets are not counted, including primary residences, one vehicle, burial plots, and personal property, which provides opportunities for careful planning.

Takeaway for Advisors

Proactive planning is critical. Understanding these basic rules helps you guide clients toward the support they deserve—while avoiding costly mistakes or delays.

We’re VA-accredited and ready to help you and your clients navigate eligibility, asset planning, and care options.

Contact us today at (949) 333-3702 to ensure your clients are getting the full range of benefits they’ve earned.