Authorization phase

[marykay]

We are in the authorization phase, but was told that a VA person would be making an appt. with me as my mother's fiduciary representative, to ascertain whether I am competent to be her rep. The form has been completed and received by VA.  I am hopeful, based on this forum, that mother will be receiving the benefit check soon.  It has been a year since application.  (My mother has mild dementia and the doctor put that on the medical form  I would recommend that you ask the doctor not to include this particular diagnosis if the condition is mild.  It has postponed the whole process.  What 89 year-old does not have a little anxiety and memory loss?)

Does anyone have advice for me regarding timeframe and what comes next? Thank you.

[nananorma]

My experience was that after a call to schedule the appointment to be named fiduciary, it was about a week later that I had the meeting.  He assured me the retro check would be received within about 21 days - and it was.  The monthly check came on the first day of the following month.  My mother had to attend the meeting, and he recorded things about her dress, her answers to his questions, etc.  It was a very pleasant meeting, but I had stressed myself out about it.  He was a very kind and pleasant person to deal with.  He called me last month (it had been a year) and told me he was going to visit with my mother and check on her.  I was on vacation at the time, and, of course, she didn't remember anything about it!

[marykay]

Thank you so much.  I appreciate the information on the timing and the process. 

[anniegoonie]

Hi MaryKay

My husband applied just over a year ago, and now we too are in the authorization phase.   They called earlier this week and told us, that they will be sending something out in the mail by end of next week.  So, for us so far it's will be about 2 weeks.    Praying here for positive news.  Will include you as well.

hugs
Anne

[nananorma]

Let me add that when the rep called to set up our appointment, he requested that I bring several documents with me - things that should have been (and were) a part of my original package.  I didn't say he should already have them - just made more copies and took them along.  We actually met at my mother's assisted living facility.

[KarenO]

I received notice at the end of September that they made a final determination of incompetency.  Next step to have a field visit.  I am still waiting for a field visit. 

[marykay]

Thanks to all of you for your personal experiences.  I feel like it is all getting closer.