I am frequently asked by families of veterans that are near the end of life what VA benefits the surviving families, most specifically the spouses are eligible for. This is sometimes a difficult question to answer. As I always tell people, “I am not an expert, but I know where they are,” so no matter what information I provide, I always suggest they contact the American Legion office at Togus (207-623-5726) who are the experts and trained by the VA to work with surviving family members, including doing all the necessary paperwork. I also suggest that it is best to have that conversation long before the veteran situation is critical. There are a number of factors to consider. The single biggest issue is to be sure that the veteran has filed a claim for a service connected medical issue he/she may have. When in doubt, file a claim. Again, the American Legion office at Togus can do all the paperwork to make that happen. Income of the surviving spouse is also a factor. The government determines what the low income number is and if below that, the VA will pay up to that amount. It is very helpful if you keep a record of all of your “out of pocket” medical expenses since most income levels are based on what the income is minus all “out of pocket” medical expenses. There are some VA benefits that are determined if the veteran’s service was during a time of war. In most cases, it is not a factor, however. I can’t emphasis enough the importance of having this conversation with the American Legion office well ahead of time. The VFW, DAV, PAV, and the State of Maine all have service officers at Togus that do exactly the same thing, so if you don’t want to use the American Legion, these other officers can represent the veteran (and ultimately the surviving spouse).

For the football fans out there, Navy continues on a winning streak with their record now 7-1. Air Force just beat Army, so Army is now 3-6. Air Force is 7-2 (Navy beat Air Force 34-25). So, while Army has won the last three Army/Navy games, it just might be time to get back on the winning side. So, everyone is invited to the newly renovated American Legion Hall to enjoy the game, whoever you are rooting for, on Dec. 14. Hot dogs and burgers and fixings will be available.

The November Legion meeting has been canceled due to the work in the hall. The next meeting will be on Dec. 9.