Partner served in the Coast Guard

Question:

Is my significant partner with dementia eligible to receive any benefits for his 4 years of service in the Coast Guard. Danny is 77, we live together for 7 years. We've only come to realize the dementia in the last year, but Danny already shows no interest in doing anything much for himself. He says he will give me a power of attorney to take care of his everyday issues in all matters, but I don't know how to go about getting it without upsetting him. Danny knows he has cognitive decline, but I don't think he understands the impact it is already having on our lives. In gathering my thoughts and starting to make plans for the future, I thought to find out about any possible VA benefits that may be available to Danny. Thank you.

Jim's Reply:

Does he have his discharge document, the DD-214? He's likely eligible for all VA benefits if he has an honorable discharge. There's often a fair amount of confusion between National Guard and Coast Guard...the Coast Guard gets VA benefits, NG has a lot of variables to be met first. It's very likely he can apply for and receive health care at the nearest VA health  facility. But he has to apply and give them what they need to get him in the system. No applications, no benefits.

Often enough if he shows up with proof he's a veteran, there will be an eligibility office that will get him registered on the spot. If you're able to have him entered into VA health care you'll find social workers who can help you with the decisions you need to make. He may be eligible for veterans pension and more.

From the VA: Individuals who served in the Coast Guard are veterans and are eligible for VA health care benefits in the same manner as any other veteran who served in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, or Air Force. All information about health care and health eligibility can be found here.