VA ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

Beyond The Call Of Duty: Additional Veterans Benefits

Summary 

  • The GI Bill offers financial support for education, covering tuition and training expenses for eligible veterans and their families.
  • The Veterans Pension program assists wartime veterans facing financial difficulties, subject to age, disability, and income requirements.
  • VA health benefits provide tailored healthcare services to improve veterans’ well-being and address their medical needs.
  • Veterans can access life insurance options, including VGLI and RH policies, offering financial security for their families.
  • Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) supports surviving spouses and children of veterans who passed from service-related causes.

Table of Contents

Veterans Education Benefits Through the GI Bill

Are you looking to further your education or pursue professional training? VA education benefits, such as those offered through the GI Bill, can significantly ease the financial burden. These benefits are available to qualifying veterans.

If you’re eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you may be able to cover expenses for higher education or specialized training programs. Beyond that, one of the program’s standout features is its flexibility. If you have unused benefits, you can transfer them to your spouse or dependent children. This can provide a pathway for your family to achieve their education goals.

Veterans Pension Program Addresses Financial Hardship Among Senior Vets

Are you a veteran who served during wartime and now faces financial challenges? The Veterans Pension program offers financial assistance to eligible veterans, providing vital support when it’s needed most. This program is specifically designed for those who served on active duty and meet certain eligibility requirements.

To qualify, you must be at least 65 years old, have a permanent and total disability, or be receiving care in a nursing home due to your condition. Additionally, your income and net worth must fall within the limits set by the VA. These restrictions exist to ensure that the assistance is directed to those with limited financial resources.

VA Health Benefits Cover Preventative and Corrective Treatment

If you’re eligible for VA health care, then you gain access to a range of services to support your health and well-being. From tackling health issues like service-connected spinal cord injuries to preventing new ones, VA health benefits aim to improve your quality of life and help you stay healthy.

Every veteran’s health care package is uniquely tailored to meet their individual needs. It includes services to treat illnesses and injuries, prevent future medical conditions, and enhance daily functioning.

Your priority group, recommendations from your VA primary care provider, and medical standards for your condition determine the extent of your healthcare benefits. 

Life Insurance Options for Veterans 

Veterans have access to life insurance options tailored to their unique needs, ensuring financial security for their loved ones. One option is Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI), a renewable term life insurance plan. 

This allows you to convert your Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) into continued coverage, with amounts up to the level of coverage you had when you left service. VGLI offers the flexibility to maintain peace of mind as your circumstances evolve.

For veterans with service-connected conditions, Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance provides valuable coverage. This program offers a $10,000 policy. It is specifically designed to support those with disabilities linked to their service. 

If you are totally disabled with a 100% VA disability rating, then you may even qualify for an additional $20,000 in supplemental coverage. This can extend the scope of the safety net the VA provides for you and your family.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for Veterans’ Families

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation is a benefit provided by the VA to support the surviving spouse and dependent children of a veteran who dies due to service-connected causes. This applies even after retirement if the death is linked to injuries or illnesses sustained during active duty.

Eligibility for DIC may also extend to cases where a veteran held a 100% VA disability rating for at least ten consecutive years before their death. If the 100% rating lasted less than ten years, then the benefit applies if it spanned at least five years from the date of separation from active duty.

Currently, DIC payments offer approximately $1,400 monthly. This provides essential financial support to veterans’ families.

Aid and Attendance or Housebound Allowance

Veterans who require assistance with daily living activities or are confined to their homes may qualify for additional financial support through the Aid and Attendance (A&A) or Housebound Allowance. These benefits are designed to supplement your monthly Veterans Pension, providing extra help if your circumstances meet specific criteria.

To be eligible, you must have served on active duty and demonstrate a genuine need for aid in performing tasks like dressing, bathing, or eating, or if a disability restricts you to your home.

Support for Veteran-Owned Small Businesses

Veterans who have served on active duty have access to resources and support to help launch and grow their small businesses. By registering to do business with the Department of Veterans Affairs, you can open doors to opportunities designed exclusively for Veteran-owned enterprises.

If you have a service-connected disability stemming from your active-duty service or training, you may qualify to register as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB). This designation sets your business apart. Additionally, it allows you access to exclusive programs, contracts, and assistance for SDVOSBs.

VA Home Loan Guarantees

The VA home loan guarantee program is yet another VA additional benefit veterans can access. This program helps qualified veterans achieve homeownership. It provides a guarantee to lenders, therefore reducing the risks of financing.

The VA guarantee allows veterans to secure favorable loan terms, such as competitive interest rates. Additionally, there is no down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI) requirement. Beyond purchasing a home, the program covers options such as refinancing an existing loan or making necessary home improvements. 

Eligibility for VA Benefits

VA additional benefits are designed to support veterans who have served in the U.S. military. However, they must first meet specific eligibility criteria.

  • Service Requirement: You must have served in active duty, the National Guard, or Reserves.
  • Discharge Status: A discharge that is not dishonorable is typically required.
  • Service-Connected Disability: Some benefits require a disability related to military service.
  • Dependent Status: Surviving family members may qualify under certain conditions.
  • Minimum Duty: Meeting length-of-service requirements may be necessary.
veteran in a wheelchair eligible for va additional benefits

The Process of Making a VA Additional Benefits Claim

Filing for additional VA benefits involves several steps, guiding Veterans and their families through a structured process to secure the support they may need. The process of claiming additional VA benefits is as follows:

Gather Necessary Documents: Start by collecting relevant paperwork, such as service records, medical documents, and evidence supporting your claim.

Submit the Claim: File your application through VA’s online portal, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. Detailed and accurate information is crucial for smooth processing.

VA Review: Once received, the VA will review your claim. This step may include requesting additional evidence or scheduling a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam to assess your condition.

Decision Notification: After reviewing your application, the VA will issue a decision, detailing the benefits you have been awarded or why the claim was denied.

File an Appeal: If the claim is denied or you disagree with the decision, you can appeal. Begin with filing a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) and proceed through the appeals process, which may include hearings and reviews by a higher-level VA official or the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.

How a WHG VA Claims Lawyer Can Help Secure Additional Benefits

Navigating the VA benefits claims process can be overwhelming, but a skilled VA benefits attorney at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia can provide invaluable support and expertise.

Expertise in VA Laws and Procedures

VA benefits claims involve complex regulations and policies that can be difficult to fully understand. WHG attorneys specialize in these laws, ensuring your application meets all requirements and adheres to VA procedures, reducing the risk of delays or errors.

Comprehensive Investigation and Evidence Gathering

A lawyer can help compile and present compelling evidence to strengthen your VA additional benefits claim. From medical records to service documentation, our experience ensures that no critical detail is overlooked, giving your case the best possible foundation.

Guidance Through Appeals

If your initial claim is denied, your VA additional benefits attorney can skillfully guide you through the appeals process. With their knowledge of the VA appeals system, they can craft persuasive arguments and represent you effectively in any hearings or reviews.

Personalized and Strategic Advocacy

At WHG, we take a personalized approach to each case. By understanding your unique circumstances, we develop tailored strategies to maximize your benefits. We also ensure your rights as a veteran are protected.

Take the Opportunity to Meet With a WHG VA Benefits Attorney Today

At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we’re here to make the process of claiming VA additional benefits smoother by fighting for the support you deserve. Our skilled VA disability benefits lawyers have the expertise to strengthen your claim, guide you through appeals, and maximize your chances of success.

To schedule a free case evaluation, call us today at (800) 320-HELP. You can also fill out our online contact form


Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a VA disability benefits lawyer cost?

Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia VA disability benefits attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. We only collect the fee when a claim is successful. Therefore, there are no upfront fees, yet you have access to experienced legal assistance.

Does my VA disability rating determine whether I am eligible for additional VA benefits?

Yes, your VA disability rating plays a crucial role in determining eligibility for additional benefits. Higher ratings can unlock more comprehensive support, such as healthcare, financial assistance, and other benefits.

What are the eligibility requirements for family members and dependents?

Family members and dependents may qualify for benefits under specific conditions, such as being a surviving spouse, child, or parent of a veteran who has passed away or is disabled due to service-related conditions.

MICHAEL M. HOFFMAN & MATTHEW G. GREIG

MICHAEL AND MATTHEW HAVE WALKED IN YOUR BOOTS TO HELP YOU SECURE THE BENEFITS YOU RIGHTFULLY DESERVE

“We are committed to helping you rebuild your lives after hardship. We are not just your legal team — we are your allies, your partners, and your tireless advocates.

And for every fight we’re willing to take on, know this — We’re right there in the trenches with you.”

Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia
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