Knowing what benefits you are entitled to as a U.S. veteran is vital, especially if you have served in a war or conflict. Don’t let pride or lack of knowledge keep you from what you deserve. The VA near you could offer you a wealth of aid.
Veterans Pension Benefits
“According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, if you served on active duty during wartime, are at least 65 years old, or have a service-connected disability plus limited to no income, you may qualify for veterans pension benefits.” Proving you have a disability or illness caused or augmented by your time in the service, allows you to receive monthly payments to help offset medical bills.
Benefits Beyond Pension Checks
Loans with affordable fixed interest rates for purchasing homes as well as loans to pay for your and your children’s education are two additional benefits you’ve earned. Also available are programs that aid with burial benefits, funeral fee reimbursement, and free tombstones and plots in a state or national cemetery. The VA’s healthcare program also grants you mental healthcare, counseling, help with paying for surgeries, emergency care, hospitalization, and even eyeglasses and hearing aids.
Veteran Benefit Denial Law
For those who have applied for a benefit and received a “no,” that denial letter does not mean the case is closed. The Veterans Appeal Process recently changed to a new review process. What this means to veterans is if you disagree with a decision received on or after February 19, 2019, you now have three options by which to refute it within the realm of veteran benefit denial law. You can refile a supplemental claim with additional evidence, ask for a higher-level review, or you can ask for a board appeal where a veterans’ law judge in Washington DC reviews your case. Most of the time though, rejections for benefits are due to a simple case of missing paperwork. Determine exactly why you were told “no” then decide on the best course of action for you. Visit va.gov. for more specific details on how to appeal.
Aid in Getting a Job
The VA is there to help you find the right job for you and if it’s a small business you always dreamed of starting, the VA can supply you with a low-interest loan to get you up and running.
You served your country selflessly. Know the benefits you deserve. Don’t let all those years go unrewarded. Check out the complete list of benefits you’ve earned at the VA service member site.
Author information: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter: @RachelleWilber
