—
The United States government makes certain benefits available to veterans but accessing those benefits can sometimes be challenging. There are many factors to consider when applying for VA benefits, and having a helpful guide to navigate the tricky waters of getting the final nod of approval is key.
There is a broad range of programs and services available to disabled veterans and getting the most out of all of them means understanding the benefits you are entitled to.
Health Care
The Veterans Administration offers a full suite of health care services, from routine checkups to specialty services, mental health services, and special surgery. There are more than 1,255 VA medical centers in the United States, each equipped to serve America’s veterans’ needs.
Veterans receive medical care for life, including prescription drugs, medical assistive devices, and nursing services. The VA offers senior nursing services, nursing support, and lodging for the veteran’s family members while the veteran is receiving acute medical care in VA hospitals.
Compensation and Pension
As a veteran, you are entitled to monthly compensation over a lifetime in exchange for the time served in the US armed forces. The VA compensation includes disability benefits and special compensation for specific injuries. These funds are administered monthly and are available to all qualifying veterans.
Education and Training
The Department of Veterans Affairs, formerly known as Veteran’s Administration, offers post-service education benefits that will allow you to receive the skills and training you need to transition to civilian life. These include the GI bill, which provides funds for university attendance, the Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP) available to members of the Army Reserves, and the Post-Vietnam Era Assistance Program. Besides, the VA runs the VOW to Hire Heroes-Veterans Retraining Assistance Program.
Home Loans
As a veteran, you are entitled to home loans at favorable rates that will help you re-settle post service. These loans include the standard conventional loan at competitive rates, Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL), cash-out refinance loans, Native American Direct Loan (NADL), and several housing grants.
Insurance
Veterans receive a suite of insurance products to protect both themselves and their families. Veterans can benefit from the Servicemembers Group Life Insurance, Veterans Group Life Insurance, Servicemembers Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection, Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance, and Veterans Mortgage Life Insurance.
Vocational Training and Employment
Several programs offer post-service training and employment to veterans who are seeking to work and start new careers. They include VetSuccess, a program that helps veterans transition into college life, independent living programs, and ongoing training and counseling programs in various areas.
Financial Management Assistance
Veterans are also entitled to assistance with money management issues, including financial planning, fiduciary services, mortgage delinquency services, and beneficiary financial counseling.
Burial Services
The VA also provides reimbursement services to the surviving family members of the nation’s veterans. In addition, veterans are entitled to burial at national cemeteries, inscribed headstones or grave markers, burial allowance, a presidential memorial certificate, a funeral salute, and an American flag draped over their casket.
However, there are certain restrictions that dictate which veterans receive these honors. Some are only available to veterans killed in active duty or who died from an injury received while in active duty or during training.
To Wrap It Up
Navigating the world of VA benefits can be challenging. You need to take several steps to start receiving benefits, and missing any one step can delay the process. We are a team of attorneys who can assist you in getting the benefits you deserve. If you are denied benefits for any reason, we can also assist with the VA appeal process. Click the link for a free consultation today.
—
This content is brought to you by Mary Aderholt.
Photo: Shutterstock
