Whether domestically or overseas, veterans of the United States army are entitled to several benefits for their exemplary service. As devoted men and women, they comprise one of the bedrocks of American freedom by helping keep our country and the world safe.
As such, it only stands to reason that, for risking their lives to protect ours, on land, air, or sea, they deserve certain entitlements to ensure convenient and smooth reinsertion on national soil. This guide aims to inform army veterans on the various types of benefits they can claim during their service and upon their safe return to the United States.
Financial Benefits Programs
As a US army veteran, you can legally benefit from a multitude of financial advantages. Notably, you may qualify for a pension plan if you’re above 65 years old, are not able to work any longer, and have a limited yearly income. Some research on VA pension rates will enable you to determine exactly how much you can expect to receive as complementary income. The VA department also offers assistance and delivers long-term care allowances to housebound veterans who suffer from a disability and have lost their autonomy.
Other financial guarantees for wartime veterans include facilitated access to housing, mortgages, and various types of loans. Ex-army members can also request financial assistance if they own a small business, which works to protect them against economic headwinds and a stagnant market. In any case, be sure to contact your local bureau of veterans affairs for further clarifications, as benefits may vary based on state legislation.
Counseling Services and Legal Protection
Despite the utmost discipline and training standards, no one is truly prepared for the traumatizing experience of war. That’s why millions of servicemen and women return with syndromes of post-traumatic stress disorder, chronic anxiety, panic attacks, and a host of mental ailments. Aside from widely available, state-provided counseling and therapy services, the team of legal experts from www.ptsdlawyers.com believe that, as a psychologically-afflicted veteran, you have a right to live as well and comfortably as any other fellow citizen. So, whether you need to appeal a denied VA claim or claim a better compensation after a personal ordeal, be sure to find competent legal representation to protect your interests and claim your dues.
Medical and Insurance Benefits
Those who have stood on perilous war fronts to defend their country abroad often return injured, amputated, or disabled. As such, there are benefits in place to facilitate medical care and treatment for them at home. First and foremost, army veterans can apply for free or subsidized comprehensive healthcare coverage for them and their dependents. If you’ve suffered a disability during your service, you may be eligible to receive adequate compensation to cover medical and treatment expenses. Some specialized research will get you acquainted with the specifics of these compensation benefits. Likewise, veterans are entitled to collect up to $400,000 of life insurance for them and their families through a dedicated service members’ insurance fund.
Other Assistance Benefits
In addition to these incentives, there are dozens of other benefits programs (educational, career counseling, discounts, state-specific benefits) to facilitate the lives of those returning from service. Notably, the GI Bill guarantees veterans assistance to receive non-college degrees and other vocational training programs for those who wish to pursue another career path after completing their service.
States also provide readjustment benefits, while the federal government has put in place a hiring preference to help veterans become civil servants. Finally, you may benefit from a burial allowance and a designated cemetery spot for your resting days.
Eligibility Requirements
Lastly, but importantly, it’s essential to bear in mind that the granting of all aforementioned aid plans, benefits, and allowances is not automatic. Your eligibility will mainly depend on your length of service (usually a minimum of 36 months for standard benefits), where and when you served, as well as your discharge characterization. That said, to have access to full health insurance, retirement pensions, and military retirement homes, you’ll need to have served for at least 20 years. Conduct online research or contact your local VA office to check the requirement and see which benefit program you qualify for.
American servicemen and women have done a distinguished deed for their nation. This is why they are entitled to certain financial, medical, educational, and employment advantages as due compensation for their distinguished service. Ultimately, while it can be difficult to navigate all the benefits offered and verify your eligibility, there are countless online resources to better inform you of your rights to compensation and benefits.
