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Veterans & Estate Planning: What Benefits Should You Know About?

For veterans and their families, estate planning is more than just preparing a will — it’s about protecting the legacy of service, ensuring financial security, and taking full advantage of the benefits earned through military dedication. Whether you served during peacetime or conflict, understanding how veterans’ benefits fit into your estate plan can make a significant difference for you and your loved ones.

Why Estate Planning Is Especially Important for Veterans

Veterans often have unique financial considerations, including military pensions, disability compensation, and VA benefits that can affect how an estate is structured. A thoughtful estate plan ensures that:

  • Your benefits are preserved for your surviving spouse or dependents.
  • Assets are distributed according to your wishes, not state default laws.
  • Loved ones avoid unnecessary delays, stress and expenses in probate.
  • Health care and long-term care preferences are clearly documented.

 

Key Benefits Every Veteran Should Know About

Below are several veterans’ programs and benefits that can play an important role in your estate and financial planning strategy:

  1. VA Disability Compensation and Pensions

Veterans with service-connected disabilities may receive monthly, tax-free payments. VA disability compensation and most VA pension payments are generally excluded from federal taxable income, but how they interact with estate valuation, state rules, or eligibility for other means-tested programs can be complex. Proper planning ensures dependents continue to receive any benefits they qualify for.

  1. Aid & Attendance (A&A) and Housebound Benefits

These additional VA pension benefits help cover long-term care for veterans and surviving spouses who need assistance with daily living or are homebound. Note: Aid & Attendance requires meeting service, wartime, medical, and income/net-worth tests and is not automatic — proper documentation and timing matter.

In some circumstances, properly structured estate-planning tools — including certain irrevocable trusts — can be part of a strategy to protect assets. However, VA rules on transfers and trusts are strict and timing is critical. Work with an experienced attorney to determine what will work in your situation.

  1. Survivor Benefits

Surviving spouses and dependents may qualify for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Survivors Pension, or education and health care benefits. Including these potential benefits in your estate plan helps your family understand and access the resources available to them.

  1. Burial and Memorial Benefits

Eligible veterans can receive burial in a national cemetery, a government-furnished headstone or marker, and a burial flag. Planning ahead ensures your family knows your wishes and how to claim these honors without added stress during a difficult time.

 

California-Specific Considerations

While VA benefits are federally administered, California offers additional support through the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet). These programs include:

  • Veterans Homes of California for long-term care
  • Property tax exemptions for disabled veterans
  • Home loan programs for veterans and surviving spouses

These benefits can complement federal estate planning strategies and provide additional options for protecting your family’s future.

Getting Help with Veterans’ Estate Planning

Estate planning for veterans requires a careful balance between honoring your service, protecting your assets, and navigating complex eligibility rules for benefits. A knowledgeable estate planning attorney can:

  • Help structure your estate to preserve benefits eligibility
  • Prepare the right legal documents to safeguard your wishes
  • Coordinate with VA and CalVet programs for comprehensive support

  

Final Thoughts

As a military family, we understand and respect your commitment to protect our great nation. You’ve already served your country — now it’s time to make sure your benefits continue serving you and your loved ones. With proper planning, you can secure peace of mind knowing that your legacy, your assets, and your family’s future are protected.

Schedule a Consultation
Herbert Law Office proudly assists veterans and their families with estate planning that honors their service and secures their future. Contact us today at (661) 273-9007 to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you make the most of your veterans’ benefits through thoughtful estate planning.

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