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L'Association des anciens
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Attendance Allowance Program
Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)
On occasion over the past several years, I have advised RCMP Veterans to attempt to access the Attendance Allowance Program from Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC).
Years prior, I had knowledge that some veterans were receiving this benefit, however, when I contacted VAC on this matter approximately 4 years ago, I was advised because of tighter restrictions, a veteran would have to be totally bed-ridden to obtain any of this Program' benefits.
To my knowledge, all attempts by veterans to whom I advised, failed to access the Program. Many were told that the RCMP and their veterans were not entitled to this benefit. I am not aware if any of the rejected appealed the decisions.
A few days ago, thanks to a veteran ( I don't normally release names of veterans who I have knowledge of receiving benefits or what type), I was advised he/she contacted VAC and did in fact access this benefit.
The following is what he advised and gave permission to pass along to all our veterans.
I remind all, that just because one is receiving benefits from VAC for disabilities, may not necessarily be "entitled" to this Program. I will also leave blank the VAC'S employee's name as well.
I spoke with --------- of the DVA pension in the Halifax office today 1-866-522-3122." ( This was on 07 Dec. 2010)
"She explained as I was the recipient of a DVA pension I was entitled to an Attendance Allowance under Sec. 38(1) of the Pension Act as RCMP members are not entitled to VIP.
I get approximately $260.00 per month (at the lowest scale) to offset manual labour that I not longer do such as lawn care, snow removal and in other cases (not mine) others get personal care. No receipts are required for this type of funding."
I believe this to be great news, thanks to one of our veterans. I encourage any veteran and serving member who cannot perform routine chores inside/outside their homes to contact VAC and request to see the local Counselor assigned to his/her area in order to be assessed under Section 38(1) of the Pension Act.
I would personally recommend those who feel entitled to write Veterans Affairs Canada in this regard in order to have a paper trail in view of being rejected. If rejected and you feel you have a legitimate case, then an appeal should follow.
Gerald (Gerry) Pumphrey
NSRCMP Veterans Association