Here's a list of most of the important documents which need to be gathered prior to submitting an application package:
1. The veterans service papers. Younger veterans may have what's known as a DD214. WW2/Korea Vets may/will not have this and other documents will need to be secured. My dad happened to have a couple original copies of his discharge/seperation papers and they are black with white typing.
2. The veterans death certificate (for a surviving spouse applying for benefits); I noted, on my dads, that my mom was listed as surviving spouse and it included her maiden name.
3. The surviving spouses birth certificate (for above); my mom was born at home so doesn't have a formal birth certificate, only a signed affidavit of birth.
4. The veteran/surviving spouse marriage certificate
5. A statement from a Nursing Home/RCFE/ALF stating requirement for constant care, along with cost of care. It should be signed by facility director and private doctor (or facility doctor). Sample below:
www.veteranaid.org/docs/nursing_home_status.pdf6. In the case of AD/VAD/etc, the VA will require a fiduciary to be appointed, to handle the pension monies. If a family member has financial POA, they should include that document and request that they be appointed as fiduciary and be interviewed for the position at the same time the applicant is interviewed (the VA does a site interview).
7. The completed application package. Aid and Attendance package linked here :
www.veteranaid.org/docs/21-534.pdf8. A cancelled check for direct deposit information (or a hardship waiver of such). They generally only direct deposit monies into the applicant's/fiduciary's checking account.
9. Income information. Social Security benefit statement, recent tax return, pension earnings statement, etc. They will use these documents to determine the amount of pension the applicant qualifies for.
The important thing to remember is to be proactive and have all the documents in order, to make the process as efficient as possible. The funds allowed will be retroactive back to application date, so, if you feel your LO is eligible, don't delay. There are income/asset limits, but they are more liberal than Medicaid, and, if you're in a position where your LO can't afford care and meets the requirements, they likely will qualify. This is a pension-type benefit, and the funds are paid directly to the applicant/fiduciary. It's up to you to spend them on care.
The most important and easiest to understand criteria, IMO, is that, for the surviving spouse to receive any benefit, they must have been married to the veteran at the time of the veteran's death and that death is what ended the relationship. In our case, my mom was married to my dad continuously from 1953 until his death in 1985. He had been married prior (his wife left him and received a divorce during WW2) and this information was requested by the VA, so as not to duplicate any benefits. Fortunately, the trust my dad drew up prior to his death had detailed information about his former wife and children, so that information was easy to provide.
As I go through the process, I'll add more information.
Neo
I was just wondering what all changes have come in the last few years. Any changes in this list?
I think a veteran class action suit should make a good run on the Federal Reserve, especially in this time of "war".
I am no longer able to hold your hand my beloved but I cherish the remembrance of your hand in mine...and the wonderful person that touched so many lives with joy. : ) 
