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To aid in this task, the Lapeer County Department of Veterans Affairs will host a benefit to provide information to guardians, conservators, caretakers and fiduciaries of veterans and their spouses who are in need of advanced care or have high costs. It will take place 1:30-3 p.m. Thursday in the Lapeer County Annex Building's annex meeting room, located at 287 W. Nepessing St. in Lapeer.

"It's such a huge need," said Worden, who is the VA Director for St. Clair and Lapeer counties. "They're trying to manage their medical expenses. If we can get them money, that's cool."

Worden said there's a big surge of those who need care due to baby boomers and retiring adults who are taking care of their parents. Because of this, she warns that some private companies are taking advantage of the situation. These organizations that do not qualify for VA recognition receive payments for their services from the claimants' private care providers in an effort to avoid criminal penalties.

However, these care providers do not know these organizations are prohibited by law from preparing claims and charging fees, and may be unaware of free services provided by recognized veterans service organizations.

"It's making me mad," Worden said. "Financial planning groups are jumping on board to exploit this particular matter."

To verify recognized organizations and accredited individuals, visit the VA's Web site at www.va.gov; click on Organizations at the top of the page; under Staff Organizations, click on General Counsel; click on Recognized Veterans Service Organizations on the left side of the page; then click on Current Bulletin 23-S.

The Office of General Counsel updates the list periodically.

"It's getting bad," Wordon said. "We're looking at an average of $2,000-4,000 a month to care for somebody for assisted living."

Cost to attend the event is free. To register, contact the Lapeer County Department of Veterans Affairs at (810) 667-0256.

"It is important," said Cheryl Burrough, secretary at the Lapeer County branch. "We're hoping that we reach a great deal of people."

Jeff Hoard can be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8127 or jeff.hoard@lapeergroup.com