Thanks for the chance to help. I am an attorney with over 12 years military law experience.

She can certainly apply.

There is a "one year marriage" requirement it appears she meets.

There are two main pensions available. One is called Dependency Indemnity

Compensation (DIC) the other is referred to as a "Death Pension"

DIC is available if he was rated as disabled by the VA. A death pension does not require a rating of disability...but there are income limitations (if her income is above approx $1200/mo she will make too much money).

The good news is you can apply for both of them at the same time.

This is the form you need to complete and return to the VA to start the process:

http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-21-534-ARE.pdf

Once you file the VA will determine if you qualify for either or both of the pensions.

You will want to contact your County VSO (veterans services officer). They can assist your mother in filing for benefits.

The pension amount is $1200 (that is the maximum widows pension)

So the VA can provide up to $1200 towards her nursing home costs. The actual amount they pay depends on her income and medical expenses....but if her income is less than $1200 now, she will qualify for money from the VA.

Meet with your CVSO and they can apply for her and get the process started...it takes 8 months or more to secure the benefits, but you are paid from the month you file