Benefits
and Services

Version 3.3

Version 3.0

PA R T I C I PA N T G U I D E

Table ofContents

VA Benefits and Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
How VA Supports You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
VA Benefits Explorer Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Proof of Military Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Qualifying Service in the Reserve Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Module 1: Navigating Your Journey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Your Transition Journey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Module 2: Supporting Yourself and Your Family . . . . . . . 29
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
What Are Your Needs? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Service-Connected Disabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Life Insurance Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Burial and Memorial Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Education and Monetary Benefits for Survivors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Module 3: Getting Career Ready . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Education and Training Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Career and Employment Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Summary of Education Benefits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Module 4: Finding a Place to Live . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Comparing Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Discovering Housing Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
State and Local Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Module 5: Maintaining Your Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
VA Whole Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
VA Health Care Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Family Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
VA Mental Health Care Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Health Care Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Making Informed Decisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Accessing VA Health Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Module 6: Connecting with Your Community . . . . . . . . . 147
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Integrating into Your Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Community Support for Veterans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
VA Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

Appendix A: Your Key Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Appendix B: Your Personal Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
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Welcome to the VA Benefits
and Services Participant Guide

APPENDIX A

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Select to navigate to different Modules.

APPENDIX B

On this page, we have highlighted interactive tools you can
use to navigate the digital guide.

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INTRO

Select to return to Table of Contents.

Select this arrow to move to next page.

APPENDIX A

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Introduction

APPENDIX B

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INTRO

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Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:yyy

Describe how VA makes a difference to you and those in your life.
Identify key VA resources available to support your transition.
Describe how your character of discharge, type of service, and lengthof service impact eligibility for VA benefits.

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Identify major stages ofyour transition journey that
may be supported by VA
benefits and services.

yDescribe how VA benefits,
services, and tools can help
support you and your family.

yDescribe how VA can help
you prepare to get a job orcareer that fits your goals.

yIdentify how VA cansupport your relocationand housing needs.

yDescribe VA healthcare and resources andidentify how to apply.

y

Recall resources forongoing support during
and beyond transition.

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For more details about VA benefits and services and how they apply to you,please see your Benefits Advisor to set up a One-On-One Assistance session.
Refer to Appendix A where you can write their contact information, alongwith any additional information and resources you need.

Describe how your service
impacts your eligibility for
VA benefits that can support
you during and after yourtransition.

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The information included in this guide matters to all members of the U.S. Armed
Forces, including members of the reserve components. It also applies to yourfamilies, caregivers, and survivors.

y

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Welcome to VA Benefits and Services, part of the Transition Assistance
Program (TAP) Curriculum. This course is key to helping you understand the VA
benefits, services, and tools you have earned through your service to our country.

Throughout thiscourse, you will:

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Course Evaluation:
Your feedback helps us
improve the course andprovide a better transition
experience for futureservice members.

yWhen instructed,
complete the Transition
Assistance Curriculum
Participant Assessment at
www.dodsurveys.mil/tgpsp.

APPENDIX ByAPPENDIX A

WelcomeINTRO

VA Benefits and Services

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Veterans HealthAdministration (VHA)

National Cemetery
Administration (NCA)

Health Care

Memorial Benefits

Veterans Benefits
Administration (VBA)

Home Loans
and HousingRelated
Assistance

Education
and Training

Disability
Compensation

Employment
Services

PensionLife Insurance

National Cemetery
Administration (NCA) provides
burial and memorial benefits
and maintains VA national
cemeteries. NCA honors you
and your eligible family
members with lasting tributes
that commemorate your service
and sacrifice to our nation.
Veterans Benefits
Administration (VBA)
takes your applications anddetermines your eligibility
for compensation, pension,education, home loan
guaranty, life insurance,
Veteran Readiness andEmployment (VR&E), andPersonalized Career Planning
and Guidance, as well as
provides benefits assistance.

MODULE 1
MODULE 2This sacrifice is at the very core of our mission to fulfill President Abraham Lincoln’s
promise, “to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and hisorphan,” by serving and honoring the men and women who are America’s Veterans.
VA has three administrations (Figure 1) that work together to support this mission.

Veterans HealthAdministration (VHA) is
America’s largest integrated
health care system, serving
nearly 9 million Veterans eachyear. VHA provides health care in
all its forms at medical centers,
clinics, and Vet Centers.

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You made sacrifices to keep our country—andeverything it represents—safe from threats.

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VA 101

VA has threeadministrations
to serve and deliver
benefits to you.

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How VA Supports You

INTRO

Introduction

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Figure 1: VA’s Administrations

APPENDIX A

We want you to choose VA when making important
choices about your health, well-being, career, family
support, and much more.

APPENDIX B

VA provides an exceptional level of service. We want you to take advantageof the benefits, services, and tools that VA offers to Veterans, service members,
members of the reserve components, families, caregivers, and survivors.

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Introduction

Resources

VA regional offices

In this guide, you can find information on benefits beyond what is covered in
the classroom, including:

y
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y
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Summaries of VA benefits and programs
Eligibility requirements
How to applyyThis document and your notes from the course will be a valuable resource
after you leave.
You can also access this Participant Guide online atwww.benefits.va.gov/transition/tap.asp.

Compensation
Education
Insurance
Home Loan Guaranty
Pension
Personalized Career
Planning and Guidance
VR&E

To find yournearest VA regional
office, visit:www.va.gov/find-locations.

What support network is available for me?

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There is an entire network of support available to assist you, including:

Visit the website for yourregional office to learn about
the services it provides, hoursof operation, and more.

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This Participant Guide serves as a key resource for you
after you leave this course.

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OVERVIEW

INTRO

can help you and/or yourfamilies and survivors with
benefits including:

VA Regional Offices

Community Partners

Local Resources

Veterans Service Organizations,
Military Service Organizations,and Veteran Peer Groups

Benefits Advisors

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APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

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Medical Centers

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Introduction

INTRO

Activity Worksheet: Create a DS Logon

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A DoD Self-Service Logon (DS Logon) Premium (Level 2) account allows you to view personal data about yourself in
VA and DoD systems, apply for benefits online, check the status of your claims, update your address information, andmuch more. If you already have an account, but forgot your DS Logon or have other issues signing in, follow
the links at the sign-in screen to reset your password or get help with any issues. To create a DS Logon, follow
the step-by-step instructions provided in Table 1.

Register for a DS Logon
Account

First, navigate to the www.ebenefits.va.gov webpage. Select the Register
button at the top right of the screen.

Step 2:

Select Registration
MethodSelect the I have a Common Access Card (CAC) with accessible card
reader radio button, and then select the Continue button.

Step 3:

Select Register

The Registration Process screen appears. Select the Register button.

Step 4:

Select a Certificate

The Select a Certificate window appears. Select your DoD certificate,
and then select the OK button.

Step 5:Create Password

Create your password according to the security requirements. Enter it in the
Password field and enter it again in the Confirm Password field.
y

To view the password as you enter it, select the Show Passwords check box.
Green check marks appear when the password has met each of thepassword security requirements listed.

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Step 1:

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Instruction

Step 6:

Select Security Questions

The Challenge Question screen appears. Select your challenge questions
from the drop-down menus and enter your answers in the fields provided
below each question. Select the Continue button.

Step 7:

Review Security Image
Options

The Security Image screen appears. You have the option to set a security
image for your account.
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Step 9:DS Logon Confirmation

Step 10: Add Email (Optional)

To view additional images, select the arrow at the bottom right of the screen.
Select a security image, and then select the Save button.

A confirmation screen appears. Select the Continue button.
A screen listing your email address(es) on file in the Defense Enrollment
Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) appears.
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If you do not want to add an email address, select the Continue button.
If you want to add an email (recommended), select the Add E-mailbutton. Enter an email address and select the Save E-mail button.

Step 11: Sign in with New AccountA confirmation screen appears. The next time you sign in, the system will prompt
you to enter the validation token that it sent to the email address provided. Your
registration is complete. You can now sign in with your new DS Logon username
and password. Select the Continue button to sign in with your new account.

Table 1: DS Logon

Note: If you have any issues with the DS Logon, check with your Benefits Advisor
during a break or schedule a One-On-One Assistance session.

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If you selected Yes in Step 7, the Security Image Selection screen appears.

APPENDIX A

Select Security Image(Optional)

If you do not want to select a security image, select No (skip to Step 9).
To set a security image, select Yes.

APPENDIX B

Step 8:MODULE 5

Select the Continue button.

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You’ll use this resource often.

What online resources are available for me?

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VA’s primary website (www.va.gov) offers current information, resources, tools,
and contact information for all VA benefits and services. This resource will be
important to you going forward. We will discuss and explore this website in class.

VA.gov is the best resource to explore and apply for VA
benefits. It’s your one-stop shop for all things about VA.
You can easily complete common tasks or explore the site to learn more about
VA benefits, services, and tools. The website also offers resources that can assist
you and your family members, including:yyyHome page links to common tasks, like requesting military records, applying
for health care, or filing a claim for disability compensation
Opportunities to explore benefits using simple categories and easy navigation
Access to helpful tools like the VA Facility Locator and GI Bill Comparison Tool

Check out Figure 2 to learn more about the VA.gov home page. This will help
you easily navigate the website.

VA.govMore resources:
Find fact sheets that cover
specific topics—ranging fromgeneral benefit information
to home loans, insurance, andeducation—at www.benefits.
va.gov/benefits/factsheets.asp.

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VA.GOV

Scan this QR code on yourmobile device for quick access
to VA.gov.

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Resources

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TIP
You can sign in at
VA.gov using your DS
Logon, My HealtheVet,or ID.me credentials.

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If you don’t have anyof these accounts,
VA.gov will prompt you
to create an ID.me
account instantly.

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Any time you visit thesite, sign in first to get
where you want to gowith fewer clicks.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

Figure 2: VA.gov Home Page

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Resources
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VA.GOV (continued)
What information can I find at VA.gov?

How You Can Get There

Explore and apply
for benefits:

Select a benefit category from the Benefits Index on the VA.gov home page,or use the direct links below:

Service member benefits
Family member benefits
Burials and memorials
Careers and employment
Housing assistancePensionLife insurance
Education and training
Records
Health care
Disability

www.va.gov/service-member-benefitswww.va.gov/family-member-benefitswww.va.gov/burials-memorials
www.va.gov/careers-employment

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What You Can Do

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Review Table 2 to learn more about what you can find at VA.gov.

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www.va.gov/housing-assistancewww.va.gov/pensionwww.va.gov/life-insurance
www.va.gov/educationwww.va.gov/records
www.va.gov/health-carewww.va.gov/disability

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Table 2: VA.gov Navigation

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

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To apply for benefits, select Apply from one of the links, or use the direct links located throughout thisParticipant Guide.

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Resources
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VA.GOV (continued)
Find VA Benefits Tool
The Find VA benefits tool (Figure 3) can help you quickly learn which benefits you may be eligible forand how to apply.

y

If you have a Premium My HealtheVet or Premium DS Logon account, you can use your existing accountto sign in. Because you already verified your identity when you got your Premium account, you won’t needto verify your identity again before doing common tasks on VA.gov, like checking your claims status or
sending a secure message to your health care team.
If you don’t have an existing DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.me account, you can create an ID.me accountinstantly. However, with this option, you have to verify your identity.

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You will be prompted to sign in using your DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.me credentials.

APPENDIX A

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When you initially sign in and every time you go to the MyVA page, a pop-up window will prompt you to selectthe Find VA benefits now button. When you click the button, the Find VA benefits screen displays. Here, you
can select the types of benefits you are interested in, save your preferences, and explore or apply for benefits.

APPENDIX B

Figure 3: Find VA Benefits

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Introduction

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Activity Worksheet: Explore VA.gov
Explore the VA.gov website by following the steps below.
Step 1: Access the VA site on your computer or mobile device at www.va.gov. Notice the search bar andboxes at the top of the home page.

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Step 2: Scroll down to the middle of the page. You’ll find a list of categories you can accessfor more information (Figure 4).

Figure 4: VA.gov Benefits

Step 3: Let’s start by selecting Service member benefits.

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Step 4: Scroll down and note the items under Time-sensitive VA benefits to consider when separatingor retiring.
Step 5: Take a minute to scan through some of the other information on this page. Like you see here, VA.gov
pages provide comprehensive information in several key sections.
Step 6: Return to the VA.gov home page and select the Sign in tab in the upper right corner.

APPENDIX A

Step 7: Take some time to sign in to VA.gov using your DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.me credentials.
You can always create an ID.me account at VA.gov.
Step 8: Select the MyVA tab in the upper right corner.
Step 9: Select the Find VA benefits button.

APPENDIX B

Step 10: The Find VA benefits page appears. From this page, select the check boxes for the benefits you areinterested in (for example—health care, education, and training).
Step 11: Select the Save preferences button in the lower left corner.
Step 12: From this page, you can explore more information, including how to apply for each benefit you saved
as a preference. You can also explore VA’s most used benefits, manage benefits or request records,
view your profile, and manage your account.
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Resources
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eBENEFITS
eBenefits is a joint DoD–VA web portal where you canresearch, access, and manage your VA benefits.
eBenefits provides resources, self-service capabilities, and a list of links to othersites that offer information about military and Veteran benefits.
The site uses secure credentials to allow access to your personal information, so
you can use self-service tools for key tasks like:yy

To get an eBenefits
Premium account,follow the steps in
the Registration
Wizard to verify
your identity.

y

If you forgot yourDS Logon or haveother issues signingin, both VA.gov andeBenefits provide
links to reset yourpassword or get help
with other issues.
Follow the links at
the sign-in screen
for each page.

You can access eBenefits with your CAC or a DS Logon.
To register for an eBenefits account online, select the Register button toaccess the eBenefits DS Logon Account Registration Wizard. To complete theregistration process, you must be listed in DEERS. If you are already registeredin DEERS, you are eligible for a DS Logon, which you can create in the system.
Once you have a DS Logon, it’s valid for the rest of your life.
If you attempt to register as a Veteran and the system says you have no DEERS
record, VA will first need to verify your military service and add you to DEERS. All VA
regional offices have staff familiar with procedures for adding a Veteran to DEERS.

eBenefits Levels of Access
There are two types of eBenefits accounts:

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TIP

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Access official military personnel documents
View the status of your disability compensation claim
Use the Benefits Explorer tool to review benefits applicable to you
Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Request a State Benefits Information Packet

www.ebenefits.va.gov

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eBenefits

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A Basic account lets you customize the site and accessinformation you enter into eBenefits but will not allow
access to your personal information in VA or DoD systems.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

A Premium account gives you the highest levelof access to all eBenefits features.

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Activity Worksheet: Explore eBenefits
Access the eBenefits site (Figure 5) on your computer or mobile device at www.ebenefits.va.gov.

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Refer to Table 3 for guidance on what you can do in eBenefits. Be aware that on your screen, you may noticea [P] next to some of the topics. This means they require a Premium account.

yApply for burial, education, VA health care, housing, Veteran Readiness and Employment program,
Personalized Career Planning and Guidance program, life insurance, and pension benefits.

ManageySelect Status Tracking to review your current application status if you applied for benefits,
like disability compensation, health care, insurance, education, and housing.

yySelect VA Representative to find a VA representative to help you with your benefit claims.
Select Documents and Records to access VA letters and official military personnel files. You can create VA
letters for a variety of purposes, including the letter necessary to claim Veterans’ Preference in federal hiring.

y

Select Health Care to access TRICARE online and the My HealtheVet site.

yLearn more about benefit categories and eligibility.
Find out how to apply for benefits.
Use the Benefits Explorer tool to view a personalized list of possible benefits based on yourVA/DoD eBenefits profile.

Learn

y
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ContactyRequest a State Benefits Information Package for your state.

yFind eBenefits help desk information.
Submit a question to VA’s Inquiry Routing and Information System.
Chat online with a live agent.

yy

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Apply

APPENDIX A

What You Can Do

APPENDIX B

Tab

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Figure 5: eBenefits Benefits and Health Care

Table 3: eBenefits Navigation

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VA Benefits Explorer Tool
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To access the Benefits Explorer tool, follow these steps:
Step 1: Access the eBenefits site at www.ebenefits.va.gov.
Step 2: Select the Learn tab from the top menu bar.
Step 3: Select the Benefits Explorer link.

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Step 4: Sign into your DS logon account.
Step 5: Scroll down the Your Profile page to review your profile information in the left column and the listof benefits you might be eligible for in the right column.

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Step 6: Follow the links in the For more information section on the right side to further research and apply
for specific benefits.

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Refer to Figure 6 for reference.

Figure 6: VA Benefits Explorer

APPENDIX A

Remember, these are possible benefits you may be eligible for, but you need to explore and apply for each
one individually.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits/about/feature?feature=benefits-explorer

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The character of your dischargeYour record of service
Your current classification code

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3. Sign in to milConnect
to get your military
service records.

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This form is often referred to as DD Form 214 (Figure 7). It is proof of yourmilitary service and shows:

4. Upgrade your DS Logonaccount to Premium,as needed.
5. From your signed-in page,
select Correspondence/
Documentation and selectDefense Personnel
Records Information
System (DPRIS) from thedrop-down menu.
6. Choose the Personnel
File tab.
7. Select Request My
Personnel File.
8. Fill out the form. In theDocument Index section,
check the boxes next to the
document(s) you’d liketo request.
9. Select the Create and Send
Request button.

Keep your DD Form 214
in a safe and accessible
location.

y

Make sure that your nextof kin or designatedrepresentatives know
how to access it.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX AyMODULE 6

REMEMBER…

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1. Go to www.va.gov.
2. From the Records
category, select theRequest your military
records (DD214) link.

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Your key to most VA benefits and services is
DD Form 214—Certificate of Release or Discharge
from Active Duty.

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SEPARATION DOCUMENTS

How can I request
a copy of my
DD Form 214?

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Proof of Military Service

Figure 7: Sample DD Form 214

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Introduction

SectionDescription

PurposeBlock 10

Lists Servicemembers’ Group
Life Insurance (SGLI) coveragein service (coverage continues
free for only 120 days after
separation)

Used to determine youreligibility for life insurance
after separation

Block 13

Lists all awards received
during service

Used to determine youreligibility for certain programs
that may have specific service
requirements

Indicates whether you received
all appropriate dental services
and treatment within 90 days
before your separation

Used to determine youreligibility for dental care after
your separation

Block 17INTRO

yAfter service: Use theCorrecting Military Records
section at www.archives.
gov/veterans/militaryservice-records/correctservice-records.html.

TIP
Keep your Leave andEarnings Statement
information, SGLI
election certification,and other financial
documents when you
separate. You may not
be able to access themonce you leave service.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

Table 4: DD Form 214 Key Information

While in service: See
your Military Personnel
Organization to change
any incorrect informationon the form.

MODULE 1

Before you leave active duty, validate all information on your form, including
important information outlined in Table 4. If this information is wrong, it can affectyour access to benefits. It may be difficult to make changes after separation.

y

MODULE 2

Why is it important to validate my information?

MODULE 3

SEPARATION DOCUMENTS (continued)

What happens
if my information
is incorrect?

MODULE 4

Proof of Military Service

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
Introductionyyy

The Air Force Reserve
provides a letter on
active-duty service from the
Air Reserve Personnel
Center (ARPC) that VA
regional offices accept inlieu of DD Form 214.

y

If you were discharged
from the Selected Reserve,
you may submit a copy ofyour latest annual points
statement and evidenceof honorable service.

y

If you still serve in the
Selected Reserve or the
National Guard, you must
include an original statementof service signed by yourcommander showing thelength of time that you havebeen a member of theSelected Reserve.

NGB Form 22, Report of Separation and Record of Service (Refer to Figure 8).
NGB Form 23, Retirement Points Accounting (Refer to Figure 9).

These service members should check items listed in Table 5 for accuracy.
SectionDescription

PurposeItem 10a

Provides information on
service for the current period

Used to determine youreligibility for specific benefits

Item 24

Indicates character of service

Used to determine youreligibility for specific benefits

INTRO
APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

Table 5: NGB Form 22 and Form 23 Key Information

MODULE 1

Army or Air National Guard members are issued one of the following forms
upon separation as proof of service:OTHER
INFORMATIONMODULE 2

Eligibility Documents for Members of theReserve Components

The reserve components do
not use any single form similar
to DD Form 214.

MODULE 3

SEPARATION DOCUMENTS (continued)

KEEP IN MIND…

MODULE 4

Proof of Military Service

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



APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO

Introduction

Participant Guide | Version 3.3

APPENDIX B

Figure 8: Sample NGB Form 22

16




Introduction

ARMY NATIONAL GUARD RETIREMENT POINTS HISTORY STATEMENT
Date Prepared: 2012/01/09
Output Reason: Request
AYE: 05/12
BASD: 2004/12/27
Notice of Eligibility: NO
Grade Held: E05
RPED: 2036/07/04, 0 Pds.

INTRO

SSG JOE VETERAN
123-45-6789
HHC, 1-117 ARMOR BN, ZZ ARNG
N ANYWHERE BLVD
MY TOWN, ZZ 12345-6789
ZZZT0-310

B1
B7
B1
B1
B7
B1
B1
B6
B6
B1
B1
B1
B1
B1
B1
B1
B1
B2
B2
B2
B2
B1
B1
B1
B4
B4
B4
B4

--15
--15
-15
-15
15
15
15
15
15
15
-15
15
15
-15
--15
15
15
--

0
0
36
4
0
38
14
32
20
32
64
50
44
56
39
59
43
0
0
0
0
40
8
5
0
0
0
0

ACCP
Misc
Pts
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
16
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
31
0
0
0
0

FHD

AD
Pts

VS

0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0

0
60
0
0
49
0
50
0
15
0
71
22
25
23
16
15
25
158
365
365
141
0
0
0
193
365
365
242

V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V
V

Grand Totals

2323

Total
CareerPoints----111----106
--111
--82
150
87
100
94
70
89
--241
380
384
--196
----252
380
380
---

Total
Pts ForRet Pay----111----106
--111
--82
146
87
100
94
70
89
--241
365
365
--196
----252
365
365
---

Creditable
Svc ForRet Pay--/--/---/--/-01/00/00--/--/---/--/-01/00/00--/--/-01/00/00--/--/-01/00/00
01/00/00
01/00/00
01/00/00
01/00/00
01/00/00
01/00/00--/--/-01/00/00
01/00/00
01/00/00--/--/-01/00/00--/--/---/--/-01/00/00
01/00/00
01/00/00--/--/--

3213

3145

17/00/00

MODULE 2

1994/06/26
1994/08/25
1995/05/12
1995/06/26
1995/08/14
1996/05/12
1996/09/30
1997/05/12
1997/11/03
1998/05/12
1999/05/12
2000/05/12
2001/05/12
2002/05/12
2003/05/12
2004/05/12
2004/12/05
2005/05/12
2006/05/12
2007/05/12
2007/09/30
2008/05/12
2008/07/09
2008/10/31
2009/05/12
2010/05/12
2011/05/12--

MEM

MODULE 3

1994/05/13
1994/06/27
1994/08/26
1995/05/13
1995/06/27
1995/08/15
1996/05/13
1996/10/01
1997/05/13
1997/11/04
1998/05/13
1999/05/13
2000/05/13
2001/05/13
2002/05/13
2003/05/13
2004/05/13
2004/12/06
2005/05/13
2006/05/13
2007/05/13
2007/10/01
2008/05/13
2008/07/10
2008/11/01
2009/05/13
2010/05/13
2011/05/13

MMSI IDT

MODULE 4

End Date(yyyymmdd)

MODULE 5

Begin Date(yyyymmdd)

MODULE 1

This summary is a statement of your points earned towards retirement. You should review all entries and report any discrepancies to your unit
clerk. Particular attention should be given to any period of service with a verification status (VS) of "B" because points are not credited until
verified.

MILITARY MEMBERSHIP STATUS IDENTIFIERS

MODULE 6

B1 -Army National Guard Unit Member
B7 -Army National Guard Unit Member on Initial Entry Training
B6 -Army National Guard ROTC/SMP
B2 -Army National Guard Mobilized Service
B4 -Army National Guard Active Duty under Title 32 USC, State Controlled
NON-CREDITABLE PERIODS OF SERVICE
To Date Reason

APPENDIX A

From DateNGB FORM 23B
28 December 2011
PAGE 1APPENDIX B

Figure 9: Sample NGB Form 23

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
Introduction

Proof of Military Service
INTRO

CHARACTER OF DISCHARGE
Character of discharge is one of the most important
items on your DD Form 214.

Individuals receiving other types of General Discharge (under honorable
conditions), bad conduct, dishonorable, or uncharacterized (entry-level separation)
may still qualify for VA benefits and services depending on VA’s determination.
You should apply no matter what and let VA determine your eligibility. Most
importantly, know that we are here to help with your questions and connect
you with VA resources you need.

You can apply for a discharge upgrade at VA.gov
by answering a series of questions.

MODULE 2yHonorable
General discharge (under honorable conditions)Character of service
requirements mayvary by benefit.
Talk with your Benefits Advisor
or contact VA to learn more.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

Refer to www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions where you will getcustomized, step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a discharge upgrade
or correction. If your discharge is upgraded, you’ll be eligible for VA benefits you
earned during your period of service.

MODULE 3y

MODULE 1

Generally, to receive VA benefits and services, your character of discharge orservice needs to be one of the following:

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
Introduction

Proof of Military Service
INTRO

IDENTIFICATION CARDS
After separation, there may be times when you need to provide proofof your military service to show you are eligible for benefits or programsin your community.

MODULE 1

While you can use your DD Form 214 as proof of service, it may not be
convenient to carry it around with you.

Wouldn’t it be easier to carry an identification (ID) card forthe simple things, like discounts at stores and restaurants?

MODULE 2

There are different types of ID cards you can use as proof of your military
service. You only need to have one of them handy to prove your Veteran status.

Description

Veteran Health
Identification
Card (VHIC)

When you enroll in VA health care, you get a VHIC to checkin to your appointments at VA medical centers. You need
to be enrolled in VA health care to receive a VHIC. If you aren’t
signed up for VA health care, you can apply online.

MODULE 4

ID Type

MODULE 3

If you are retiring, you’ll get a Retiree ID card from DoD. This serves as proofof your Veteran status. You don’t need any other proof. If you are not a Retiree,
you have some other options after separation to use as proof of service. See theoptions for you in Table 6.

A VIC is a form of photo ID available to all Veterans, even
if you are not enrolled in VA health care. To be eligible, youneed to have:yy

MODULE 6

Veteran ID
Card (VIC)

MODULE 5

Note: Beginning January 1, 2020, access to the commissary,exchange, and other morale, welfare, and recreation facilities
was expanded to new groups. If you qualify, you needto present your VHIC to get access. To learn more, visit
iris.custhelp.va.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/428/~/
commissary-and-exchange-privileges.

Served on active duty or in the reserve components, AND
Received an honorable or general discharge(under honorable conditions)

If eligible, you can apply online.

APPENDIX A

At this time, all 50 states and Puerto Rico offer a Veterandesignation (an identifying mark) printed on state-issued
driver’s licenses or IDs. The type of Veteran designation mayvary from state to state. Most states ask you to provide a copyof your discharge papers (DD Form 214 or other separation
documents). Some states may require additional documents.
Check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.

APPENDIX B

VeteranDesignation
on a StateIssued Driver’s
License or ID

Table 6: Identification Cards as Proof of Service

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


Introductiony

You can also accessand print a Veterans
Identification Proof ofService letter at by visitingwww.va.gov, selecting
Disability, and thenselecting Download VA
benefit letters.

yVarious ID cards may beavailable depending on
your situation.

y

You cannot use these formsof ID to claim Veterans’
Preference in federal hiring;
you may need to print a VBA
Veterans’ Preference letter
at eBenefits.

Veterans must be enrolled in the VA health care system to receive a VHIC.
To enroll:
1. Complete an application for enrollment in VA health care by telephone
without the need for a signed paper application. Just call 1-877-222-VETS(8387) Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m., OR
2. Apply for VA health care benefits online at www.va.gov/healthbenefits/enroll., OR
3. Apply in person at your local VA medical facility.
4. Once your enrollment is verified, you can have your picture taken at yourlocal VA medical center, and a VHIC will be mailed to you.

How can I get a VIC?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

1. Go to www.va.gov. Be sure you are signed in to the site.
2. Select Get Veteran ID cards in the Records section.
3. Under the Types of Veteran ID Cards, select the + button to expand the
How do I apply for a Veteran ID Card? section.
4. Select Learn more about how to apply for a VIC.
5. Follow the prompts to apply.

INTRO

In some cases, you canprovide your DD Form 214
as proof of service.

MODULE 1

How can I get a VHIC?

y

MODULE 2

IDENTIFICATION CARDS (continued)

KEEP IN MIND…

MODULE 3

Proof of Military Service

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


Introduction

The Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Program supports and enhances mobilization
readiness of the reserve components. AGR includes both National Guard(Title 32) and Reserve (Title 10) members who serve full time.

National Guard
www.nationalguard.mil
The National Guard’s website
provides current news,
information, and resources—
including National Guard
websites for each state.

INTRO

Qualifying Service in the
Reserve Components

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

Members of the reserve components may establish eligibility for certain VA
benefits by performing full-time duty under either Title 32 or Title 10. Generally,
all members of the reserve components discharged or released underconditions that are not dishonorable are eligible for some VA benefits. The
length of your service, service commitment, and your duty status may
determine your eligibility for specific benefits.

Description

Active Service

Eligibility requirements for several VA benefits include a
certain length of active service. Active service in the reserve
components includes:yFull-time National Guard duty (Title 32): Duty performed
for which you are entitled to receive pay from the federal
government, such as responding to a national emergency or
performing duties as an Active Guard Reserve member, ORyActive duty (Title 10): Full-time duty in the U.S. Armed
Forces—such as unit deployment during war—including
travel to and from such duty, except active duty for training.

MODULE 4

Service TypeMODULE 3

Refer to Table 7 for information on service types of the reserve components.

Military technicians are civilian employees of the Departmentof the Army or Department of the Air Force who must
maintain membership in the reserve components to retain
employment. Similar to traditional members of the reserve
components, military technicians are normally in a military
status 1 weekend a month and 2 weeks a year, and are eligible
for some VA benefits. You may establish eligibility for
additional benefits based on the length of reserve component
or active service.

MODULE 6

Technician
Service

APPENDIX A

Traditional members may become eligible for some VA
benefits by fulfilling a service commitment.

APPENDIX B

Traditional
Service

MODULE 5

Note: A state or territory’s governor may activate National
Guard members for state active duty, such as in response toa natural or man-made disaster. State active duty is basedon state law and does not qualify as active service for VA
benefits. Unlike full-time National Guard duty, National Guard
members on state active duty are paid with state funds.

Table 7: Service Type of the Reserve Components

Participant Guide | Version 3.321APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4This page is intentionallyleft blank

APPENDIX B

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO





APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

NavigatingYour Journey

APPENDIX B

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO






MODULE 1

IN THIS MODULE…
Your Transition
Journey:

Upon completion of Module 1, you will be able to:yy

Identify key focus areas of your transition journey.
Identify and prioritize what is important to you.

You’re getting ready to transition and you havedecisions to make.

y

A Road Map to Your
TransitionyEstablishing Personal Goals
and Priorities

MODULE 3

No two transitions are the same. You have different circumstances surrounding
your family, your health, your employment, and more. One thing you all have incommon is that you are transitioning back to civilian life.

MODULE 4

VA can help ease your transition by supporting you and your loved ones. This
course will help you identify the key focus areas of your transition journey andprioritize what is important to you.

Your Transition Journey

MODULE 5

Figure 10 represents your transition journey. It covers some of the major themes
in your life and your transition. Using the steps in the journey, you can start tounderstand the benefits and tools that can help you through these common
areas of transition.

MODULE 6

MODULE 4
Finding a
Place to Live
MODULE 3
Getting
Career Ready

APPENDIX A

MODULE 5
Maintaining
Your Health
MODULE 2
Supporting
Yourself andYour Family

Figure 10: Your Transition Journey

Participant Guide | Version 3.3

APPENDIX B

MODULE 1
NavigatingYour Journey

MODULE 2

Introduction

MODULE 1

INTRO

NavigatingYour Journey

MODULE 6
Connecting withYour Community

24




Navigating Your JourneyYour Transition Journey
INTRO

A ROAD MAP TO YOUR TRANSITION
Figure 11 represents the topics that will be covered in the course today.
We will discuss various VA benefits, services, and tools that can help you meet your personal goals.

MODULE 4

NavigatingYour Journey

Finding a
Place to Live

y
y
y

y

MODULE 5

Maintaining
Your HealthyyyMODULE 3y

Getting
Career Ready

y

y

y
y
y
y

y

y

Personalized Career Planning
and Guidance
Post-9/11 GI Bill
Montgomery GI BillOn campus support programs
Veteran Readiness andEmployment (Chapter 31)
Veteran Employment Services
Office programs
Additional employment
resources

MODULE 3

Disability compensation
and related benefitsLife insurance benefits
Burial and memorial benefits
Education and monetary
benefits for dependents
and survivorsyy

MODULE 4yy

VA health care facilities
VA health care services
Family support
VA mental health care services
VA health care tools
VA health care access

MODULE 5

Supporting Yourself
and Your Familyy

VA facility locator tools
VA Home Loan Guaranty
programHomeless support services
State and local benefits
National Resource Directory

MODULE 6

Connecting withYour Community
y
y
y
y
y

y

MODULE 6

MODULE 2yYour local network
Veterans Service Organizations
Military Service Organizations
Veteran peer groups
Community Veterans
Engagement Boards
Personal and online resources

APPENDIX AyTransition journey
Personal goals and priorities

APPENDIX By

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

MODULE 1

Take note of when we will discuss key topics that may interest you,like disability compensation, the GI Bill, and health care benefits.

Figure 11: VA Benefits and Services Course Topics

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25




Navigating Your JourneyThis course is meant to bea discussion that will help
you understand how VA
benefits and services might
apply to your life.

y

Take what you learn today
to discover how you can get
the most out of your VA
benefits during yourtransition and beyond.

As you begin your transition journey (Figure 12), a good place to startis to ask yourself:

What do I want to do and what do I want my qualityof life to be like?
MODULE 4
Finding a
Place to Live
MODULE 3
Getting
Career Ready

MODULE 3

MODULE 5
Maintaining
Your Health
MODULE 2
Supporting
Yourself andYour Family

Figure 12: Your Transition Journey

MODULE 6
Connecting withYour Community

MODULE 4

MODULE 1
NavigatingYour Journey

MODULE 5

No matter where you are on your transition journey,
VA is here for you.
Your individual goals and priorities determine how you might use VA benefits,
services, and tools. Not all benefits apply to you, and you may choose not totake advantage of every benefit that is available. You need to have enoughinformation to make informed decisions about what is best for you.

yParticipant Guide | Version 3.3

APPENDIX AyHow do you measure your “quality of life?” What does “quality of life”
mean to you?
Don’t plan just for today, but for tomorrow as well.
If you don’t have a family now, do you see having a family in the future?
This could change your plans and priorities for benefits you need.
Establish a source of health care before leaving the military, even if you
don’t plan to use it right away or think you may only need primary care orbasic services. This is key for all new Veterans, regardless of their disability
status or current health care needs.

APPENDIX By

MODULE 6

To make these decisions, you’ll need to establish and prioritize yourpersonal goals.
y

INTRO

y

MODULE 1

ESTABLISHING PERSONAL GOALS AND PRIORITIESHow can I use what
I learn today?

MODULE 2

Your Transition Journey

26




Navigating Your Journey

INTRO

Activity Worksheet:Your Personal Checklist
Throughout this course, you’ll build a customized checklist of how you can take advantage of VA benefits,
services, and tools that can help you build the kind of life you want.

MODULE 1

We’ve given you a basic list to start with in Appendix B. It contains actions you need to take related to every
benefit discussed in this course.
You can personalize this list. Cross out the things that don’t apply to you or use blank spaces to add more
items. After class, this becomes your to-do list and you can check off items as you complete them.

MODULE 2

Be sure to note the deadlines and important time frames to complete each action. You will revisit this checklist
at the end of each module during the course.
Start now by looking at the General Items section (Section 1) of the checklist.

MODULE 3

Can I use this checklist after this course?
Absolutely! Here are some of the things you can do:yy

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5y

Take time to think through the checklist and make changes, as appropriate.
Discuss it in One-On-One Assistance sessions with your Benefits Advisor.
Discuss with your family members, if applicable.
Check the boxes when you complete each item.

MODULE 4yParticipant Guide | Version 3.327APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4This page is intentionallyleft blank

APPENDIX B

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO





APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

Supporting
Yourself andYour Family

APPENDIX B

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO






MODULE 2y

Describe VA disability compensation and how to apply.
Identify benefits available to support your loved ones.

You are preparing to leave the military and enter the civilian world. You areprobably still figuring out how this change will affect you and how you canbest use the skills you obtained during service to address any opportunities
or challenges in civilian life.

MODULE 1

Disability Compensation and
Retired Pay or Separation Pay

Support for Your
Loved Ones:yyyLife Insurance Benefits
Burial and Memorial Benefits
Fry Scholarship
Survivors’ and Dependents’
Educational AssistanceAt this stage of your journey (Figure 13), the first thing you may be asking yourself is:y

How am I going to support myself and my family?

yDependency and Indemnity
CompensationySurvivors Pension

MODULE 4
Finding a
Place to LiveKEEP IN MIND…
The National Guard website is agreat resource that offers helpful
information and programs foryou and your family.

MODULE 3
Getting
Career Ready
MODULE 5
Maintaining
Your Health
MODULE 2
Supporting
Yourself andYour Family

Figure 13: Your Transition Journey

MODULE 6
Connecting withYour Community

APPENDIX A

MODULE 1
NavigatingYour Journey

Visit www.nationalguard.mil
and explore the National Guard
family programs or check out
the website(s) for your state,
if you are a National Guard
member.

Where can I learn more?

yFor any questions related to your benefits, visit:www.va.gov/service-member-benefits.
For any questions related to VA benefits for spouses, dependents, survivors,and family caregivers, visit: www.va.gov/family-member-benefits.

Participant Guide | Version 3.3

APPENDIX By

MODULE 2yy

MODULE 3

Upon completion of Module 2, you will be able to:

MODULE 4

Monetary Benefits:

MODULE 5

IN THIS MODULE…

MODULE 6

Introduction

INTRO

Supporting Yourself
and Your Family

30




Supporting Yourself and Your FamilyyyYourself
Your spouse, domestic
partner, or significant otheryYour child(ren) or
dependentsyYour parent(s)Extended family member(s)MODULE 3

MODULE 2y

INTRO

BENEFITS FOR YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES

Who are you planningto support?

MODULE 1

What Are Your Needs?

MODULE 4

VA has benefits, services, and tools to help meetyour family’s needs.

MODULE 5“Family” means different things to different people. Think about who you plan
to support and what your personal goals are for transition and beyond. Your
plans are unique to your situation.
Through your service to our country, you may be eligible for:
Monetary and support benefits to help you, including:yyDisability compensation
Related disability benefits
Dual compensation benefits

MODULE 6yyyLife insurance
Burial and memorial benefits
Education and monetary benefits for dependents
and survivors

APPENDIX ByAPPENDIX A

Benefits to support your loved ones, including:Participant Guide | Version 3.3

31




Supporting Yourself and Your Familyyyy

If VA determines you have a service-connected disability, you might
be eligible for monthly disability compensation.
In some situations, you might also be eligible for special allowances
for clothing or automobiles.
VA housing grants may be able to help you adapt a home to meet your needs.
VA even has life insurance programs for those with service-connecteddisabilities.

How does VA determine if I have a service-connecteddisability?
To award a VA disability rating for service connection, the evidence submittedwith your claim must show a current disability (physical or mental), which
incurred in service or was caused or aggravated by service.

TIP

Acute conditions that come and go and leave no lasting
effects—such as colds or mild injuries that heal completely—
do not qualify as service-connected disabilities.

INTRO
MODULE 1yAggravated:
A pre-existing condition that
became worse in service
Presumptive:
A condition assumed
to be connected to military
service if it develops orworsens within a specificperiod of time after service

MODULE 2

VA may determine that you are disabled by an injury or illness that happened
because of or was worsened by your active military service. These disabilities
are considered service connected.

A condition resulting from an
in-service injury, illness, disease,or incident, with no evidence ofa pre-service condition

Secondary:

MODULE 3

If you are injured or ill because of your service, you may
be eligible for monetary and support benefits.

Direct:A new condition caused bya previously establishedservice-connected condition
IF YOU HAVE ANYQUESTIONS, CALL:MODULE 4

ESTABLISHING SERVICE CONNECTION

Types of Service
Connection

VA BENEFITS HOTLINE
1-800-827-1000

MODULE 5

Service-Connected Disabilities

Based on the evidence provided, VA rates your service-connected disability
from 0% to 100%, in 10% increments.

MODULE 6

A VA disability rating, even at 0%, can unlock many
benefits and services for you.
You may be entitled to compensation, free health care, and more, even witha VA disability rating of 0%.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

www.va.gov/disability

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Service-Connected Disabilities

How do I apply?

INTRO

DISABILITY COMPENSATION
What is disability compensation?

Am I eligible?
Reserve

Veteran









Family Member

To be eligible for disability compensation, you must:yyyHave served in the uniformed services on active duty, active duty fortraining, or inactive-duty training, AND
Be discharged under other than dishonorable conditions, AND
Be at least 10% disabled by an injury or disease that was incurred in or
aggravated during active duty, active duty for training, or inactive-duty training

As it relates to members of the reserve components:yyEligibility for disability compensation requires that a disability result froman injury or disease incurred or aggravated in the line of duty during active
duty or active duty for training.
For inactive-duty training, the disability must result from injury, heart attack,or stroke. Other benefit programs require a specified number of days ofactive service.

Where can I learn more?

You can submit a pre-discharge
disability claim at your VA
regional office or intake sites
available at several military
installations.
Select the Locations tab
at VA.gov to find an intake
site near you.

BY MAIL
Mail VA Form 21-526EZ,
Application for Disability
Compensation and RelatedCompensation Benefits, to:Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444

APPENDIX B

www.va.gov/disability/eligibility

IN PERSONMODULE 4

National Guard

MODULE 5

Active Duty

MODULE 1
MODULE 2

3. Scroll down the page andselect Let’s get started.

MODULE 3

If you have a combined evaluation of 30% or more,
you may be eligible for an additional allowance foryour dependents.

1. Visit www.va.gov.
2. Under the Disability
category, select the File aclaim for compensation link.

MODULE 6

Compensation is paid monthly; the amount varies with your degree of disability.

ONLINE

APPENDIX A

Disability compensation is tax-free and paid to Veterans with service-connecteddisabilities rated at 10% or higher.

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VA receives the claim.

The following people can file a disability claim:

Step 2:yyyVeteransService members preparing to separate from the military
Survivors or family members seeking benefits owed to a Veteran ona pending claim
Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) on behalf of Veterans or service members

When can I apply for disability compensation?
There is no time limit to file a claim. You can file a disability claim as early as
180 days before you separate.
VA encourages you to apply within 1 year from your date of separation, which
determines the effective date of your claim. Review Table 8 for more information.

VA assigns the claim to a VeteransService Representative (VSR).

Step 3:
VSR gathers required evidence.

Step 4:
VSR reviews all evidence.

Step 5:
VSR recommends andprepares a decision.

Step 6:

If you apply…

Your claim is effective…

VA reviews VSR’s
recommendation.

Within 1 yearof separation

The day after your separation

Step 7:More than 1 year
after separation

The day VA receives the claim

Table 8: Disability Claim Effective Dates

MODULE 2y

MODULE 1

Applying for a disability rating is called “filing a claim.”

INTRO

Step 1:

MODULE 3

FILING DISABILITY CLAIMSThe Disability
Claims Process

VA prepares claim packet
for mailing.

MODULE 4

Service-Connected Disabilities

Step 8:
VA sends a decision packet.

MODULE 5

How does VA process my claim?
There is an eight-step process that your claim will go through.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

The timeline associated with the process depends on the complexity of yourclaim and evidence needed to support it. To help minimize processing time,
submit as much evidence as possible with your claim.

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Service-Connected Disabilities
INTRO

FILING DISABILITY CLAIMS (continued)
How can I expedite my claim?

180 to 90 days
before separation

MODULE 2

Benefits Delivery
at Discharge

Remember: you have a network to help you file your claim, including VA regional office
staff and VSO representatives.

The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program accepts disability claims before
separation. This allows VA to administer the necessary health exam and gather evidence intime to provide an expedited decision as early as the day after your discharge. You’ll need to:ySubmit your BDD claims between 180 and 90 days before separation.
Be available for 45 days from the date you submit your BDD claim to attend the required
medical exam(s).

yInclude copies of your service treatment records for your current period of service.

y

MODULE 3

TIP

MODULE 1

Depending on when you apply, you may be able to use different programs to expedite the processing of yourclaim (Table 9). Review the timeline in Figure 14 regarding filing timelines and claim effective dates.

Traditional Claim
Any time after
separationyyyInclude all the evidence you have in your possession or that you can easily get.
Confirm that there are no more records VA needs to make a claim decision.
Go to a VA medical exam, if required.

MODULE 5

From 90 days
before separation andat any time after
separation

You can also get a faster decision by submitting a Fully Developed Claim (FDC). You’ll need to:If your claim is not eligible for either of the above programs, VA will process it as a traditional
claim, following the eight-step process outlined on the previous page. Traditional claims are
not given priority processing.

MODULE 6

Fully Developed
ClaimsMODULE 4

Note: This program is not available in all foreign countries. Contact the VA BDD office at
Landstuhl, Germany or Camp Humphreys, Korea to determine if your exams can becompleted by a foreign exam provider.

Table 9: Ways to Expedite Your Disability Claim

Claims filed pre-separation
OR up to 1 year after separation
are effective retroactive to
1 day after the separation orretirement date.

APPENDIX A

Claims filed more than
1 year after separation
are not retroactive.

Use FDC or file a traditional claim (no time limit)
90-0 days prior:
Use FDCPre-Discharge Claims
Separation or
Retirement Date

APPENDIX B

180-90 days prior:
Use BDD

Post-Discharge Claims
1 Year after Separation
or Retirement Date

Figure 14: Disability Claim Time Frames

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DoD requires every service member to have a physical before separation,
typically the Separation History and Physical Exam (SHPE).
If you’re applying for disability compensation, you must undergo a specific typeof exam, VA’s Separation Health Assessment (SHA).
Review Table 10 for more information.
If you…

Then…

File a disability claim less than 90 days
before separation, OR

You’ll receive DoD’s
Separation and Physical Health
Examination.

File a Benefits Delivery at Discharge
pre-discharge claim between 180-90 days
before separation, AND

Apply for disability
compensation between
180-90 days before
separation under the
BDD program.
Applying early allows
you to schedule a VA
SHA before yourdischarge, which will
also satisfy DoD’s
requirement for aseparation physical.

You’ll receive VA’s Separation
Health Assessment.

MODULE 3

You don’t file a disability claim at all

INTRO

Do I need a physical exam?

MODULE 1

SEPARATION HEALTH EXAM

TIP

MODULE 2

Service-Connected Disabilities

You request your exam at least 90 days
before separation

MODULE 4

Table 10: Comparison of DoD and VA Separation Health Exams

Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES)

MODULE 5

Active-duty service members who stay in service despite their injury can obtaina VA disability rating through IDES without filing a claim.
DoD and VA use IDES to determine a service member’s fitness for duty. If DoD
finds the service member medically unfit for duty, IDES gives them a proposed VA
disability rating before they leave the service. The proposed rating informs theservice member of their approximate amount of VA compensation and benefits.

MODULE 6

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

www.benefits.va.gov/predischarge/disability-exams.asp

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PRINT
Supporting Yourself and Your Family

INTRO

Activity Worksheet:
Filing Disability Claims
Review the scenarios below. Based on what you’ve learned about disability compensation programs,
answer these questions for each scenario:

Scenario

Solomon Clark is a young enlisted Marine.
In combat, he fell and badly injured his face.
This resulted in severe dental trauma that
may require prolonged follow-up care.
Solomon is separating in 2 months.
Kathlyn Park is an enlisted Airman. She hada pre-existing back injury from high school
sports, but it never affected her mobility.
During active duty, she often carried heavy
packs and equipment, which worsened her
injury. Eventually, Kathlyn underwent surgery
and rehabilitation.

MODULE 1

Best Way to File(select only one)

Claim EffectiveDate(select only one)

Direct

BDD claim

Aggravated

FDC claim

Day following
separation

Presumptive
SecondaryTraditionalclaim

Date VA
received the
claim

Direct

BDD claim

Aggravated

FDC claim

Day following
separation

Presumptive
SecondaryTraditionalclaim

Date VA
received the
claim

Direct

BDD claim

Aggravated

FDC claim

Day following
separation

Presumptive
SecondaryTraditionalclaim

Date VA
received theclaim

Day following
separation

Type of Service
Connection(select only one)

MODULE 2

3

What type of service connection does each person have?
What is the best method to file their claim and get an expedited decision?
When will their claim be effective?

MODULE 3

2

MODULE 4

1

MODULE 6

Johnnie McDonald served 20 years in the
Navy. For part of his military career, he worked
with asbestos. He was diagnosed withasbestos-related symptoms and has had noother exposure to asbestos since separationfrom service.

MODULE 5

Kathlyn is separating in 6 months.

Johnnie retired 2 years ago.
Direct

BDD claim

Aggravated

FDC claim

Presumptive

Traditional
claim

Secondary

Date VA
received theclaim

APPENDIX A

Andrew Chang is a National Guard officer.
During service, he was diagnosed withbilateral flat feet and received a VA disability
rating for direct service connection forthis condition.

APPENDIX B

Years later, he began to suffer knee pain.
He had never experienced pain or limitationsof his knees before service. His doctor
discovered that his flat feet altered hiswalk, which caused his knee problem.
Andrew separated from active duty
15 years ago.

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Supporting Yourself and Your FamilyYour VA disability compensation may be offset if you receive retired pay,disability severance pay, or separation incentive pay, unless you waive a portionof your pay.
Congress created two programs to recover some or all retired pay that military
Retirees must waive if they receive VA disability compensation (Table 11).
Combat Related
SpecialCompensation(CRSC)CRSC is a program for military Retirees with combat-related
disabilities. It is a monthly tax-free entitlement paid along withany retired pay you may already be receiving.
Am I eligible for CRSC?

To be eligible, you must:y

Be eligible for military retired pay
Have a disability that your military service branch has deemedcombat-related and VA has deemed service connectedyHave your military retired pay offset by VA compensationyCombat‐related injuries and diseases may be the direct resultof armed conflict, hazardous duty, duty under conditions
simulating war, or an instrumentality of war. For more informationrefer to: www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/disability/crsc.html.
Concurrent
Retirement
and Disability
Pay (CRDP)

Most Retirees opt to do thisbecause VA disability
compensation is tax-freeincome, but military retired
pay is taxed by the federal
government and by most states.

Separation Pay
If you received an early
separation package andwould like to receive disability
compensation, the law
requires you to repay theearly separation package.
This repayment is usually
done through a withholdingof all or a portion of any VA
disability compensation
benefits. VA’s recoupment
rates are based on information
provided by your specificbranch of service. For more
information, refer to VA.gov
or ask your Benefits Advisor.

CRDP restores retired pay for military Retirees with serviceconnected disabilities who waive retired pay to receive VA
disability compensation. Veterans do not need to apply. If
qualified, they will be enrolled automatically.
Am I eligible for CRDP?

Retired based on length of service, or a Reserve Retiree
with 20 qualifying years of service and of retirement ageyEligible for retired pay that is offset by VA payments

INTRO
APPENDIX A

To be eligible, you must be:y

MODULE 1

Can I get VA disability compensation in addition
to my retired pay?

MODULE 2yBoth disability compensation and retired pay, OR
Both disability compensation and separation pay

MODULE 6y

MODULE 3

Dual compensation refers to situations where you may be receiving two typesof pay. For example, you may be eligible to receive:

In general, you can’t
receive both VA disability
compensation and military
retired pay unless you waive
the amount of retired pay
equal to the amount of
disability compensation.

MODULE 4

DISABILITY COMPENSATION AND RETIRED PAY
OR SEPARATION PAY

Why is mycompensation
offset?

MODULE 5

Service-Connected Disabilities

APPENDIX B

VA and DoD coordinate payment. If a Veteran receives retired
pay based on a disability, CRDP is subject to an offset in theamount by which disability retired pay exceeds retired pay
based on length of service. For more information, refer to:
www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/disability/crdp.html.
Table 11: Dual Compensation Programs

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Supporting Yourself and Your FamilyLife Insurance Benefits

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1INTROOVERVIEW

We care about the legacy you leave behind for your loved ones.

MODULE 5

Although it may seem far off, it’s important to think about how you will prepare for your family’s financial
well-being after you’re gone.
Financial concerns and logistics can be hard for your loved ones to handle while grieving.

VA life insurance is one way to provide peace of mind for your family.

yy

VA has life insurance programs that don’t require you to prove good health. This is especially important
if you have service-related conditions that might affect your eligibility for a private life insurance plan.
You can take your VA life insurance with you wherever you work or live. You don’t lose coverage when
you change jobs or move to a new state.
VA even has life insurance programs for those with service-connected disabilities or who
experienced traumatic injuries during their service. These individuals might otherwise be uninsurable
under a traditional plan.

APPENDIX AyMODULE 6

Life insurance can offer financial security and support to you, your spouse, and your dependents. VA life
insurance programs offer some advantages over traditional life insurance policies. For example:

APPENDIX B

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, CALL:SERVICEMEMBERS’ GROUP LIFE INSURANCE (SGLI)/VETERANS’ GROUP LIFE INSURANCE (VGLI) CALL CENTER
1-800-419-1473
ALL OTHERS
1-800-669-8477
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Supporting Yourself and Your FamilyLife Insurance Benefits
INTRO

OVERVIEW (continued)
VA offers several types of life insurance benefits for your specific situation. Consider your options early—there
are strict deadlines you don’t want to miss. You can find information about all types of VA life insurance
programs using the interactive Overview of VA Insurance Benefits at www.va.gov/life-insurance.

MODULE 1

You can also use the insurance needs calculator by visiting www.benefits.va.gov/insurance/introcalc.asp.
The calculator asks for information to determine your current assets, the income your survivors will need, andyour financial obligations. By subtracting your total assets from your total financial obligations and income
needed, the calculator arrives at the amount of life insurance you need.
SGLI is the benefit that provided your life insurance while you were in the military.

MODULE 2

Some service members may also have FSGLI coverage for their spouses and dependents.

MODULE 3

Coverage under both SGLI and FSGLI will end 120 days after you separate or retire from service. You canconvert your SGLI and FSGLI to permanent plans without providing proof of good health; you can also convert
your SGLI coverage to the Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI). Only active-duty service members can convert
to VGLI coverage. Family members can convert to coverage with a participating commercial provider.
Review Figure 15 for more details on key timelines for converting your coverage.

ACTIVE-DUTY MILITARY

Conversion to VGLI with no Health Requirements
SGLI continues freefor 120 days after military
separation or retirement

1 Year &120 Days

485 Days**

MODULE 5

240
Days*

120
Days

Conversion to VGLI with Health Requirements

SGLI can be converted to VGLINo insurance coverage from 121 days to the day SGLI is converted to VGLISGLI can nolonger beconverted

MODULE 6

Dateof military
separation orretirement(DD Form 214)

MODULE 4

SGLI to VGLI Insurance Conversion Key Time Frames

APPENDIX A

Figure 15: SGLI to VGLI Key Conversion Time Frames

You can convert your SGLI and FSGLI coverage within the required deadlines
with no break in coverage.
y

You must convert SGLI coverage to VGLI or a participating private plan.
You must convert FSGLI to a participating private plan. VGLI coverage is not available to spouses or dependents.

APPENDIX By* See Figure 15: VGLI applications received from June 11, 2020, to June 11, 2021, will allow service members 330 days from theirseparation to apply, without proof of good health, for VGLI coverage.
** See Figure 15: VGLI applications received from June 11, 2020, to June 11, 2021, will allow service members 1 year and 210 days,
or 575 days total, from separation to apply, with proof of good health, for VGLI coverage.

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There is noneed to apply.

Am I eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

Veteran







*

Family Member* SGLI will continue for 120 days after you separate at no charge. After 120 days, your coverage ends.

You are eligible for SGLI coverage if you are:
y
y

y

y
y

y

Serving on active duty
A member of the Ready Reserve or National Guard scheduled to perform
at least 12 periods of inactive training per year
A commissioned member of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration or the U.S. Public Health Service
A Cadet or Midshipman at one of the four service academies
A member of the Reserve Officer Training Corps engaged in authorizedtraining and practice cruises (part‐time coverage)
A service member who volunteers for a mobilization category in the
Individual Ready Reserve (IRR)INTRO

You can increase, decrease,cancel, and restore coverage aswell as change your beneficiary
designations through the
SGLI Online Enrollment
System (SOES),
www.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect.
Find more information atwww.benefits.va.gov/insurance/
soes.asp.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX Ay

Separation from service
Assignment to the IRR of a branch of service or to the Inactive National Guard|
This includes members of the U.S. Public Health Service Inactive
Reserve Corps
Placement on the Temporary Disability Retirement List

MODULE 6y

MODULE 5

Service members with full‐time SGLI coverage are eligible for VGLI upon:y

MODULE 1

Part-time coverage is available for eligible members of the reserve components
who do not qualify for full-time coverage.

Can I change
my coverage while
in service?

MODULE 2

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is low-cost term life insurance
coverage for members of the uniformed services.

MODULE 3

What is Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance?

Eligible service members
are automatically enrolledin SGLI coverage.

MODULE 4

SERVICEMEMBERS’ GROUP LIFE INSURANCE

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Supporting Yourself and Your FamilyLife Insurance BenefitsINTRO

SERVICEMEMBERS’ GROUP LIFE INSURANCE (continued)
Eligibility as it relates to members of the reserve components covers specific parameters, such as:yy

MODULE 1yMembers of the reserve components may elect in writing to be covered for a lesser amountor choose no coverage.
Members of the reserve components who have been assigned to a unit and scheduled to perform at least
12 periods of inactive duty that is creditable for retirement purposes are also covered 365 days of the year
and for 120 days following separation or release from duty.
Members of the reserve components who do not qualify for the full-time coverage described above may
receive part-time coverage.
|
Part-time coverage generally applies to members of the reserve components who drill only a few days a year.
|
You are covered only while on active duty or on active duty for training or traveling to and from such duty.
|
Members covered part time do not receive 120 days of free coverage after separation unless they incuror aggravate a disability during a period of duty.
Members of the reserve components who volunteer for a mobilization category in the IRR.

MODULE 2y

MODULE 3

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

www.va.gov/life-insurance/options-eligibility/sgli

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Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member
FSGLI is available to spouses and dependent children of the following:yy

Active-duty service members covered by full-time SGLIMembers of the National Guard or Ready Reserve of a uniformed service
covered by full-time SGLI

If you are covered under SGLI, you are eligible to insure your spouse underFSGLI, regardless of whether your spouse is an active-duty service member,a retired Veteran, or a civilian.
FSGLI coverage ends 120 days after separation.
yyySpouses may convert their coverage to an individual policy with aparticipating private insurer at standard premium rates within 120 days fromthe service member’s date of separation without any health review. This is avaluable benefit if your spouse has health conditions that may make it
difficult to obtain insurance.
Spouses can also convert to an individual policy within 120 days of a divorce,
death, or termination of coverage.
Dependent child coverage cannot be converted and is not available after the
120-day free period from separation.

You can increase, decrease,cancel, and restore spousal
coverage through the SOES atwww.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect.

SGLI Online
Enrollment System
Coast Guard and National
Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration members
can use SOES to manage
SGLI coverage.
All service members shouldlook for information fromtheir service about when toaccess SOES to confirm andcertify their SGLI elections.
Find more information atwww.benefits.va.gov/
insurance/soes.asp.

Eligibility as it relates to members of the reserve components:
You must have full-time SGLI coverage and may elect additional coveragefor spouses and dependent children.

APPENDIX B

Where can I learn more?
www.va.gov/life-insurance/options-eligibility/fsgli

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MODULE 1
APPENDIX A

Find the list of participating insurance companies at:www.benefits.va.gov/insurance/forms/SGL_133_ed2019-07.pdf.

yMODULE 2

Is my family eligible?

Can I change mycoverage in service?

MODULE 3

Your spouse may be automatically covered, if eligible. If you are covered
under full-time SGLI and your spouse is not automatically covered, you may
apply for spouse coverage. Contact your unit’s personnel officer.

Coverage for spouses
includes age-based premiums.
Dependent children haveautomatic $10,000 coverage
at no cost.

MODULE 4

Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI) is a program extended tothe spouses and dependent children of service members insured under the
SGLI program. FSGLI is not available to those insured under VGLI.

MODULE 5

What is Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance?

FSGLI provides coveragefor spouses in increments
of $10,000 up to a maximumof $100,000, not to exceed theamount of your SGLI coverage.

MODULE 6

FAMILY SERVICEMEMBERS’ GROUP
LIFE INSURANCE

INTRO

More about FSGLI
coverage:

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How do I apply?

INTRO

VETERANS’ GROUP LIFE INSURANCE
What is Veterans’ Group Life Insurance?

You have 1 year and 120 days from your date of separation to apply for VGLI. If
you apply for coverage within 240 days* of your date of separation and pay the
first premium, you will not be required to prove good health.

Am I eligible?


Visit giosgli.prudential.com.

You are eligible to apply for VGLI if you had SGLI and are within 1 year and
120 days of the following events:

y

y

y

Release from active duty or active duty for training under a call or order toduty that does not specify a period of less than 31 days
Separation, retirement, or release from assignment from the Ready Reserve
or National Guard
Assignment to the IRR of a branch of service or to the Inactive National Guard|
This includes members of the U.S. Public Health Service Inactive
Reserve Corps
Placement on the Temporary Disability Retirement List

You are also eligible to apply for VGLI if you had part-time SGLI and, while
performing duty, suffered an injury or disability that rendered you uninsurable
at standard premium rates. This includes travel directly to and from duty.
The following members of the reserve components are eligible:
y

y

y

y

Members of the reserve components with part-time SGLI coverage who,
during a period of active duty or a period of inactive duty for less than 31 days,
experienced a disability or worsened a pre-existing disability that makes themuninsurable at standard premium rates
Service members separating, retiring, or being released from assignment fromthe Ready Reserve or a National Guard member who was covered by SGLI, OR
Members of the reserve components covered by part-time SGLI who incurredor aggravated a disability while performing inactive duty or traveling to orfrom duty, OR
Members of the Individual Ready Reserve or Inactive National Guard

BY MAIL
Mail VA Form SGLV-8714,
Application for Veterans’ Group
Life Insurance, to the Office ofServicemembers’ Group Life
Insurance as listed on the form.

BY FAX
Fax VA Form SGLV-8714,
Application for Veterans’ Group
Life Insurance, to the number
listed on the form.

APPENDIX A

yWhere can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

www.va.gov/life-insurance/options-eligibility/vgli* VGLI applications received from June 11, 2020, to June 11, 2021, will allow service members
330 days from their separation to apply, without proof of good health, for VGLI coverage.

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MODULE 3

Family Member

MODULE 4

Veteran

MODULE 2

OR
Reserve

MODULE 5

National Guard

1. Visit www.va.gov.
2. Select Life insurance.
3. Select About VA insurance
options and eligibility.
4. Then select VGLI.

MODULE 6

Active Duty

ONLINE

MODULE 1

Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) allows a service member who separated fromservice to convert SGLI coverage to renewable term life insurance protection.

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How do I apply?

INTRO

SGLI TRAUMATIC INJURY PROTECTION
What is SGLI Traumatic Injury Protection?

Am I eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

Veteran

1. Complete VA Form
SGLV-8600, Application
for TSGLI Benefits.
2. Submit the application
and any additional medical
documentation available toyour branch of service aslisted on the form.

Family Member

MODULE 3

The service member’s branch of service determines eligibility. If you are insured
under full-time SGLI, you are automatically covered by TSGLI.
TSGLI coverage applies to:yy

Active-duty service members
Members of the reserve components
Individuals assigned to funeral honors duty or 1-day muster duty

MODULE 4y

To be eligible for payment of TSGLI, you must meet all the following requirements:yyy

MODULE 5y

Be insured by SGLI when you experience a traumatic injury
Incur a qualifying loss as a direct result of a traumatic injury
Have suffered the traumatic injury before midnight of the day that you
separate from the uniformed services
Suffer a scheduled loss within 2 years (730 days) of the traumatic injury
Survive for a period of not less than 7 full days from the date of thetraumatic injury

MODULE 6y

Eligibility as it relates to members of the reserve components:yyMembers of the reserve components must have sustained a qualifying loss
as a direct result of injuries incurred on or after October 7, 2001, throughNovember 30, 2005, regardless of SGLI coverage.
A qualifying loss as a direct result of injuries incurred after December 1, 2005,
and covered by SGLI is automatically also covered by TSGLI.
TSGLI cannot be declined unless the service member also declines basic SGLI.

APPENDIX A

yWhere can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

www.va.gov/life-insurance/options-eligibility/tsgli

Participant Guide | Version 3.3

MODULE 1

TSGLI is not only for combat injuries. It provides insurance coverage for injuries
incurred on or off duty. TSGLI payments range from $25,000 to $100,000 basedon the qualifying loss suffered.

BY MAIL

MODULE 2

SGLI Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI) provides automatic traumatic injury
coverage to all service members covered under the SGLI program. It provides
short-term financial assistance to severely injured service members andVeterans to help them in their recovery.

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Supporting Yourself and Your FamilyLife Insurance Benefits

How do I apply?

INTRO

SGLI DISABILITY EXTENSION
What is SGLI Disability Extension?

You can convert coverage to VGLI at the end of the disability extension period
upon payment of premiums.

Am I eligible?
National Guard

Reserve

VeteranMail VA Form SGLV-8715,
SGLI Disability Extension
Application, to the Office ofServicemembers’ Group Life
Insurance as listed on the form.

Family Member

MODULE 2

Active Duty

BY MAIL
To be eligible, you must be totally disabled at the time of separation fromservice or have one of the following:yy

MODULE 3

Permanent loss of use of:|Both hands|
Both feet|
Both eyes|
One hand and one foot|One foot and one eye|
One hand and one eye
Total loss of hearing in both ears
Loss of speech, defined as the ability to express yourself through voice orwhisper (VA disregards artificial appliances in determining total disability)

MODULE 4y

MODULE 1

Service members who are disabled and unable to work after separation canapply to extend SGLI coverage for up to 2 years after separation at no cost.

MODULE 5

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

www.va.gov/life-insurance/options-eligibility/sgli/#can-i-get-a-free-extension-of-

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Supporting Yourself and Your FamilyLife Insurance Benefits

How do I apply?

Am I eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member

To apply for S-DVI, you must meet the following criteria:yyMail VA Form 29-4364,
Application for Service-Disabled
Veterans Life Insurance, to the VA
regional office and insurance
center as listed on the form.

Be released from active duty under other than dishonorable conditions on
or after April 25, 1951, AND
Be rated for a service-connected disability (even if only 0%), AND
Be in good health except for any service-connected conditions, AND
Apply within 2 years from the date VA grants a new service-connected disability

MODULE 4y

MODULE 1

BY MAILyApply at:www.insurance.va.gov/sdvi/
areyoueligible.

MODULE 2

Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance (S-DVI) provides life insurance coverage
to Veterans who have service-connected disabilities (even 0%) who are otherwise
in good health. S-DVI is available in a variety of permanent plans and as term
insurance. S-DVI policies are issued for a maximum amount of $10,000. Veteranscovered by S-DVI are eligible to apply for a waiver of premium if they are totallydisabled for 6 consecutive months before age 65 due to their service-connecteddisability or disabilities.

ONLINE

MODULE 3

What is Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance?

INTRO

SERVICE-DISABLED VETERANS
LIFE INSURANCEMODULE 5

Note: An increase in an existing service-connected disability or the grantingof Individual Unemployability of a previously rated condition does not makea Veteran eligible for this insurance.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

www.va.gov/life-insurance/options-eligibility/s-dvi

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How do I apply?

INTRO

SUPPLEMENTAL S-DVIWhat is Supplemental S-DVI?

Am I eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member

S‐DVI policyholders are eligible for supplemental coverage if they:yy

Are eligible for a waiver of premiums, AND
Apply for the coverage within 1 year from notice of the grant of waiver, AND
Are under age 65

Mail VA Form 29‐0188,
Application for Supplemental
Service-Disabled Veterans
Insurance, to the VA regional
office and insurance center asstated on the form. This form
will be sent to the insured if
granted a waiver of premiums
and they are under age 65.

MODULE 4

Where can I learn more?

MODULE 1

Mail VA Form 29‐357, Claimfor Disability Insurance –Government Life Insurance(for a total disability waiverof S‐DVI premiums), to theaddress provided on the form.
Supplemental S-DVI:yWaiver of Premiums:

MODULE 2

You must apply for Supplemental S-DVI coverage within 1 year from noticeof the grant of waiver of premiums and be under the age of 65.

BY MAIL

MODULE 3

Under certain conditions, the basic S-DVI policy provides for a waiver ofpremiums in case of total disability. Policyholders who carry the basic S-DVI
coverage and who become eligible for a waiver of premiums due to total
disability can apply for and be granted Supplemental S-DVI of up to $30,000.
Premiums may not be waived on this supplemental coverage.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

www.va.gov/life-insurance/options-eligibility/s-dvi

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Supporting Yourself and Your FamilyLife Insurance Benefits

How do I apply?

INTRO

VETERANS’ MORTGAGE LIFE INSURANCE
What is Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance?

Am I eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

Veteran









Family Member

VMLI is available only to service members and Veterans with severe serviceconnected disabilities who have:yy

BY MAIL
Mail the completed form to theaddress provided on the form.

A Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) or a Specially Adapted Housing (SAH)
grant to help build, remodel, or purchase a home, AND
The title to the home, AND
A mortgage on the home

MODULE 4y

MODULE 1

Premiums for VMLI are based on age, amount of the mortgage, and length of themortgage. To obtain a premium estimate, visit our VMLI premium calculator at
www.insurance.va.gov/vmli/calculator.

Complete VA Form 29‐8636,
Veterans Mortgage Life
Insurance Statement, with an
SAH agent during the scheduledinterview for the SHA/SAH grant,
or after obtaining the grant.

MODULE 2

VMLI is payable only to the mortgage lender, not to a beneficiary.

IN PERSONMODULE 3

Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI) is mortgage protection insurance
that can help families of severely disabled service members or Veterans pay off
their home mortgage in the event of the service member’s or Veteran’s death.

Veterans must apply for VMLI before their 70th birthday.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

www.va.gov/life-insurance/options-eligibility/vmli

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Supporting Yourself and Your FamilyyContributed to their country
as service membersyContributed to theircommunity as Veterans

To learn more about theVeterans Legacy Program, visit:www.cem.va.gov/legacy.

Veterans Legacy
Memorial
NCA offers online memorial
space for Veterans, providing
a digital Veterans Legacy
Memorial profile page for eachof the 3.7 million Veteransinterred in VA cemeteries.

VA burial benefits can help service members, Veterans, and their family
members plan and pay for a burial or memorial service in one of more than
135 VA national cemeteries.

INTRO
MODULE 4

HEADSTONES AND MARKERS
1-800-697-6947
NATIONAL CEMETERYSCHEDULING OFFICE
1-800-535-1117

MODULE 5

VA offers burial and memorial benefits that will honor
your service to our country, including burial in one of
VA’s national cemeteries.

IF YOU HAVE ANYQUESTIONS, CALL:MODULE 1

We partner with universities,
schools, teachers, professors,and students of all levels to
research Veterans interred in
NCA cemeteries and how they:

MODULE 2

Private funeral expenses can exceed $10,000, andVA burial benefits can help with those costs.

Veterans Legacy
Program

MODULE 3

Burial and Memorial Benefits

Family members can also order memorial items to honor the service of a Veteran.

MODULE 6

We encourage you to plan in advance to help eliminate unnecessary delays andreduce stress on your family at a difficult time.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

www.va.gov/burials-memorials
www.vlm.cem.va.gov

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Supporting Yourself and Your Family

Burial and Memorial Benefits

How do I apply?

INTRO

BURIAL BENEFITS
What do VA burial benefits provide?
VA burial benefits include all the following, at no cost to the family:yyy

For a headstone, grave
marker, or niche cover, fillout the Claim for Standard
Government Headstone orMarker (VA Form 40-1330).

Who is eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member











Burial in a VA national cemetery is open to:
y

y

y

y

All service members and Veterans who met minimum active-duty service
requirements and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
Reservists who died while on active duty under certain circumstances or
who died while on training duty
Service members and former service members who were eligible for retired
pay at the time of their death
Spouses, minor children, and dependent unmarried adult children(under certain conditions), even if they died before the Veteran

When does VA pay
a plot allowance?
If the Veteran:yWas discharged from active
duty because of a disability
incurred or aggravatedin the line of dutyy

Was receiving
compensation or pension,or would have been if notreceiving military retired payyDied at a VA facilityyy

MODULE 5

Eligibility as it relates to members of the reserve components requires that:
You served on active duty, ORYour death was due to an injury or disease that developed or was aggravatedduring active duty, active duty for training, or inactive-duty training.

APPENDIX ByFor general information on burial and memorial benefits, visit:www.va.gov/burials-memorials.
For detailed information on memorial items, visit:www.va.gov/burials-memorials/memorial-items.
For a full list of faith-based markers, visit:www.cem.va.gov/cem/docs/factsheets/emblems.pdf.

APPENDIX AyMODULE 6

Where can I learn more?
y

MODULE 1y

To get a burial flag, fill out
the Application for UnitedStates Flag for Burial
Purposes (VA Form 27-2008).

MODULE 2yy

MODULE 3y

A gravesite in any VA national cemetery with available space
The opening, closing, and continuous care of the grave
A government headstone, marker, or medallion (including faith-based markers)
A burial flag
A Presidential Memorial Certificate
In some cases, a monetary burial or plot allowance

MODULE 4y

BY MAIL

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Supporting Yourself and Your Family

Burial and Memorial Benefits

How do I apply?

INTRO

PRESIDENTIAL MEMORIAL CERTIFICATE
What is a Presidential Memorial Certificate?
IN PERSON
Visit a VA regional office.

MODULE 1

The certificate bears the current president’s signature and expresses the country’s
grateful recognition of the Veteran’s service in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Who is eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member











More than one Presidential Memorial Certificate may be requested by eligible
recipients, including:y

Next of kin or other relatives
Friends
Authorized service representatives acting on behalf of family or friends

Where can I learn more?

BY FAX
Fax VA Form 40-0247,
Presidential Memorial Certificate
Request Form, to the number
listed on the form.

52



APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

www.va.gov/burials-memorials/memorial-items/presidential-memorial-certificates

MODULE 3yMail VA Form 40-0247,
Presidential Memorial Certificate
Request Form, to the address
listed on the form.

MODULE 4y

BY MAIL

MODULE 2

A Presidential Memorial Certificate is an engraved paper certificate to honor the
memory of deceased Veterans who are eligible for burial in a national cemetery.

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Supporting Yourself and Your Family

Burial and Memorial Benefits

How do I apply?

INTRO

PRE-NEED PROGRAM
What is the Pre-Need Program?

Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member











Service members, Veterans, spouses, and unmarried dependent adult children
may apply to determine their eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery.
Authorized service representatives acting on behalf of these individuals
may also apply.

Where can I learn more?
www.va.gov/burials-memorials/pre-need-eligibility

MODULE 1
MODULE 2

Who is eligible?

Online VA Form 40-10007,
Application for Pre-Need
Determination of Eligibility
for Burial in a VA National
Cemetery, to the address
listed on the form.

BY MAIL
Mail VA Form 40-10007,
Application for Pre-Need
Determination of Eligibility
for Burial in a VA National
Cemetery, to the address
listed on the form.

MODULE 3

Families of those registered with the Pre-Need Program will have increased
confidence that their loved ones are eligible for burial in a VA national cemeteryat their time of need.

ONLINE

MODULE 4

The Pre-Need Program assists anyone who would like to know in advance if they
are eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery.

MODULE 5

BY FAXAPPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

Fax VA Form 40-10007,
Application for Pre-Need
Determination of Eligibility
for Burial in a VA National
Cemetery, to the number
listed on the form.

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Supporting Yourself and Your Family

INTRO

Education and Monetary Benefits
for Survivors
VA offers monetary and education benefits to your surviving loved ones.

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

If you’re a dependent spouse or child (or the surviving spouse or child) of a Veteran, you may qualify foreducation benefits or job training through a GI Bill program.

MODULE 6

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

www.va.gov/family-member-benefits

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Supporting Yourself and Your Family

Education and Monetary
Benefits for Survivors

INTRO

How do I apply?

MARINE GUNNERY SERGEANT JOHN DAVID FRYMEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (FRY SCHOLARSHIP)
The Fry Scholarship provides Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to the children andsurviving spouses of service members who died in the line of duty while on active
duty after September 10, 2001. Eligible beneficiaries attending school may receive
up to 36 months of benefits at the 100% level of Post-9/11 GI Bill entitlement.

Apply at:www.va.gov/education/
apply-for-education-benefits/
application/5490/introduction.

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily MemberThe following eligibility requirements apply:yyyChildren are eligible when they turn 18, unless they already graduated fromhigh school. A child may be married or older than 23 and still be eligible.
A spouse will lose eligibility for this benefit upon remarriage.
If you are eligible for both the Fry Scholarship and Survivors’ and Dependents’
Educational Assistance benefit, you are required to make an “irrevocable
election” to waive one of these two benefits. This means you cannot changeor reverse your choice. This does not apply if you are the child of a service
member who died in the line of duty before August 1, 2011.

BY MAIL
Mail VA Form 22-5490,
Dependents Application
for VA Education Benefits,
to the VA regional office withjurisdiction over the school
you plan to attend.

MODULE 3

Active Duty

MODULE 2

Who is eligible?

Note: If you’re not legally an
adult, your parent or guardianmust sign the application.

MODULE 4

What is the Fry Scholarship?

MODULE 1

ONLINE

If members of the reserve components died while on weekend drill or annual
training, children and surviving spouses do not qualify for the Fry Scholarship.

Where can I learn more?

Visit a VA regional office.

TIP
If your educational
program has started,
ask the school or
employer to complete
VA Form 22-1999,
Enrollment Certification,and submit it with
VA Form 22-5490.

APPENDIX B

www.va.gov/education/survivor-dependent-benefits/fry-scholarship

IN PERSONMODULE 6y

For children and surviving spouses of service members who died in the lineof duty on or after September 11, 2001, to use Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits,members of the reserve components must have died while on full-time active
duty under Title 32 Section 502(f) as Active Guard Reserve or while responding
to a national emergency declared by the president that is federally funded.

APPENDIX AyMODULE 5

Eligibility as it relates to members of the reserve components:

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Supporting Yourself and Your Family

Education and Monetary
Benefits for Survivors

INTRO

How do I apply?

SURVIVORS’ AND DEPENDENTS’ EDUCATIONALASSISTANCE

yyEligible dependents of Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled
due to a service-related condition, OR
Eligible dependents of Veterans who died while on active duty or as a resultof a service-related condition

Who is eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member



MODULE 2

The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) benefit, also
called Chapter 35, offers education and training opportunities to:

Apply at:www.va.gov/education/
apply-for-education-benefits/
application/5490/introduction.

BY MAIL
Mail VA Form 22-5490,
Dependents Application
for VA Education Benefits,
to the VA regional office withjurisdiction over the school
you plan to attend.

MODULE 3

What is Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational
Assistance?

MODULE 1

ONLINEyyyWhere can I learn more?

Visit a VA regional office.

TIP
If your educational
program has started,
ask the school or
employer to complete
VA Form 22-1999,
Enrollment Certification,and submit it with
VA Form 22-5490.

APPENDIX B

www.va.gov/education/survivor-dependent-benefits/dependentseducation-assistance

IN PERSONMODULE 5y

MODULE 6y

A Veteran who died or is permanently and totally disabled as the resultof a service-connected disability
A Veteran who died from any cause while a permanent and total service‐connected disability existed
A service member who died during active military service
A service member missing in action or captured in the line of duty
by a hostile force
A service member forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty
by a foreign government or power
A service member who is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment
for a permanent and total service‐connected disability, and is likely to bedischarged for that disability

APPENDIX AyMODULE 4

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Supporting Yourself and Your Family

Education and Monetary
Benefits for Survivors

INTRO

How do I apply?

DEPENDENCY AND INDEMNITY COMPENSATION

Who is eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranMail VA Form 21-534ez,
Application for Dependency
and Indemnity Compensation,
Death Pension and Accrued
Benefits by a Surviving Spouseor Child, to the pension
management center for yourstate as stated on the form.

Family MemberyyyMarried the Veteran or service member before January 1, 1957, OR
Married the Veteran or service member within 15 years of their discharge
from the period of military service during which the qualifying illness or
injury started or got worse, OR
Was married to the Veteran or service member for at least 1 year, OR
Had a child with the Veteran or service member, aren’t currently remarried,and either lived with the Veteran or service member without a break until
their death or, if separated, weren’t at fault for the separation

To qualify for DIC, a surviving child must be:yyy

Unmarried, AND
Not included on the surviving spouse’s compensation, AND
Under the age of 18 (or under the age of 23 if attending school)

Work with an accredited
representative or agent or
go to a VA regional office.

MODULE 4y

IN PERSONTIP
A surviving spouse who
remarried on or after
December 16, 2003, andon or after attaining age
57 is eligible to continue
to receive DIC.

MODULE 5

To qualify for DIC, a surviving spouse must meet one of the following
requirements:

MODULE 3yMODULE 6

To qualify for DIC, a surviving parent must:y

MODULE 1

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monetary benefit
paid to eligible survivors of service members who died in the line of duty,
eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-related injury
or disease, and eligible survivors of Veterans who died after an extended periodof 100% service-connected disability.

BY MAIL

MODULE 2

What is Dependency and Indemnity Compensation?

Be the biological, adoptive, or foster parent of the Veteran or service
member, AND
Have income below a certain amount

APPENDIX A

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

www.va.gov/disability/dependency-indemnity-compensation

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Education and Monetary
Benefits for Survivors

INTRO

How do I apply?

SURVIVORS PENSIONVA provides a Survivors Pension to qualifying surviving spouses and unmarried
dependent children of deceased Veterans who had wartime service.

Who is eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member

Mail VA Form 21-534ez,
Application for Dependency andIndemnity Compensation, Death
Pension and Accrued Benefits by
a Surviving Spouse or Child, toyour VA regional office.

MODULE 2
To be eligible, all of the following must be true.
IN PERSONMODULE 3Work with an accredited
representative or agent or
go to a VA regional office.
IF YOU HAVE ANYQUESTIONS, CALL:MODULE 4y

The Veteran did not receive a dishonorable discharge, AND:|Entered active duty on or before September 7, 1980, and served atleast 90 days on active military service, with at least 1 day during
a wartime period, OR|Entered active duty after September 7, 1980, and served at least 24 months
or the full period for which they were called or ordered to active duty (withsome exceptions), with at least 1 day during a wartime period, OR|
Was an officer and started on active duty after October 16, 1981, andhadn’t previously served on active duty for at least 24 months
The person receiving benefits:|
Has a yearly family income and net worth that meets certain limits
set by Congress|
Isn’t remarried (in the case of a surviving spouse)

VA BENEFITS HOTLINE
1-800-827-1000

MODULE 5y

MODULE 1

BY MAIL

What is Survivors Pension?

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

www.va.gov/pension/survivors-pension

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Supporting Yourself and Your Family

INTRO

Activity Worksheet:
Update Your Personal Checklist
Go back to Appendix B and update your checklist based on what you just learned regarding VA benefits that
can help support you and your loved ones, including disability compensation, life insurance, burial andmemorial benefits, and benefits for survivors.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

For this portion, look at Sections 2 through 5 of the checklist.

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MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4This page is intentionallyleft blank

APPENDIX B

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO





APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

Getting
Career Ready

APPENDIX B

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO






MODULE 3

Introduction

IN THIS MODULE …

yMontgomery GI Bill
Selected Reservey

GI Bill Comparison Tool
GI Bill Feedback Tool
On Campus Support
VA Work-Study
On-the-Job Training andApprenticeshipsy

Am I prepared to obtain my preferred career?

yy

MODULE 4
Finding a
Place to Liveyy

MODULE 3
Getting
Career Ready
MODULE 5
Maintaining
Your Health
MODULE 1
NavigatingYour Journey

MODULE 2
Supporting
Yourself andYour Family

Figure 16: Your Transition Journey

MODULE 6
Connecting withYour Community

MODULE 2

Post-9/11 GI Bill
Montgomery GI Bill
Active Dutyy

MODULE 3

At this stage of your journey (Figure 16), you might be asking yourself:y

MODULE 4

Now that you’ve started to think about how you will support yourself and yourfamily, it’s time to focus specifically on building your career.

Personalized Career
Planning and Guidance

Veteran Employment
through Technology
Education Courses

Employment
Resources:y

Veteran Readiness andEmployment

y

Veteran Employment
Services Officey

VA Employment
Opportunities

MODULE 5yy

MODULE 6yIdentify VA education and training benefits, services, and tools available
to you and your family.
Describe career and employment resources that can help you find a job or career.
Identify resources for establishing professional and community connections.

Education andTraining Resources:

APPENDIX A

Upon completion of Module 3, you will be able to:y

MODULE 1

INTRO

Getting
Career Ready

VA can help you:yyyObtain the education, skills, and credentials you need
Build the career that fits your goals
Find the right job or career opportunity
Develop professional and community connections

APPENDIX B

yWhere can I learn more?
www.va.gov/educationwww.va.gov/careers-employment
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Getting Career Ready

y
y
y
y
y

Evaluate your skills and strengths, and compare them to your personal goals
Find a training or academic program that supports your needs
Decide which civilian or military jobs you want
Develop a detailed action plan to achieve personal goals
Remove any barriers that get in the way of your success in trainingor employment

yCareer choice assistance:
Helps participants
understand the best
career options based oninterests and skillsyBenefits coaching:
Provides guidance on
VA benefits and resourcesto achieve educationand career goalsyPersonalized support:
Provides academic or
adjustment counseling andsupport to help remove any
barriers to successWith Personalized Career Planning and Guidance, you can get:
y
y

y
y

Guidance on the effective use of VA benefits and other resources
Personalized academic or adjustment counseling to help you understandyour academic strengths and weaknesses
Help selecting the best career options based on your interests and skills
Help researching the local labor market and improving your job-marketing skills

One-on-one career counseling with a qualified career counselor allows you to
get answers to your questions and address any challenges you’re facing.

This program does not require a service-connecteddisability rating and you can use it more than one time.

INTRO
MODULE 1

Services include:

MODULE 2

VA’s Personalized Career Planning and Guidance program provides enhanced
career counseling, assessment, education planning and guidance resources toachieve personal, career and education goals. The personalized support froma master’s-level counselor will help you (or your eligible spouse anddependents) to:

MODULE 3

What is Personalized Career Planning and Guidance?

The Personalized Career
Planning and Guidance
program offers tailorededucation and career counselingand advice on how to mosteffectively use your VA benefits.

KEEP IN MIND…
MODULE 4PERSONALIZED CAREER PLANNING AND GUIDANCEDID YOU KNOW?

y

It is easy to apply forthis benefit.

y

You can obtain this service
from VA regional offices
or virtually throughtelecounseling.

yWith the help of the
program, you can excel as
you transition from uniform
to civilian careers.

MODULE 6

IF YOU HAVE ANYQUESTIONS, CALL:MODULE 5

Education and Training
Resources

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

VA BENEFITS HOTLINE
1-800-827-1000

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Getting Career Ready

Education and Training
Resources
PERSONALIZED CAREER PLANNING AND GUIDANCE(continued)
Am I eligible?
VeteranFamily Member











y

A transitioning service member 6 months before separation, OR
A Veteran who transitioned from active-duty service in the last year, OR
A Veteran or beneficiary eligible for VA educational benefit

Where can I learn more?

MODULE 1

Reserve

BY MAIL

MODULE 2

National Guard

Mail VA Form 28-8832,
Application for Counseling,or write a letter requesting
services to your nearest VA
regional office.

MODULE 3

Active Duty

www.va.gov/careers-employment/education-and-career-counseling

BY PHONEMODULE 5

Call VA’s Education Call Center
toll-free at 1-888-442-4551.

MODULE 4y

ONLINE
Apply online at www.va.gov.

VA Personalized Career Planning and Guidance help is available free of charge
and you can get these services if one of the following is true. You are:
y

INTRO

How do I apply?

IN PERSONAPPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

Visit a VA regional office.

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Getting Career Ready

INTRO

Activity Worksheet:
Is Personalized Career Planning andGuidance Right for You?

MODULE 1

After watching the video on the Personalized Career Planning and Guidance program and considering what
you’ve just learned about the program, work in pairs to answer the questions below. Capture your answers to
the questions in the space provided. Be prepared to share your answers with the class.

y

My military career field is ___________________________________.

y

How does that translate to civilian jobs?

yI don’t know what I want to do (skills and interests).

y

Do I need certifications to do my job on the civilian side?

y

I know what I want to do, but need help finding the right school.

y

I am interested in apprenticeship or on-the-job training. What do I do?

y

I want to directly apply for a job. What are my next steps?

yOther?

MODULE 3

2

MODULE 2

Are you eligible for Personalized Career Planning and Guidance?
What areas would you want to discuss with a counselor and why? Consider the following,
but be specific about your needs:

1

MODULE 4Your Answers

MODULE 5

Question 1:

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

Question 2:

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Post-9/11 GI Bill (or Chapter 33)
Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (or Chapter 30)
Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (or Chapter 1606)

When you use GI Bill benefits, there’s no specific path
you have to follow. You can choose the classes,
programs, certifications, and schools that fit your needs.
Even if you transferred your GI Bill benefits to your family, review thisinformation to learn more about what benefits apply to them.

TIP

Remember that you can revoke the transfer of unused GI Bill
benefits (in this instance, transfer them back to yourself)
at any time.

Where can I learn more?

y
y
y
y
y

y

INTRO
MODULE 1y

Remedial, refresher,and deficiency training
in some cases

Check the specific types oftraining covered by each typeof GI Bill at VA.gov.

Transfer of Benefits
You may transfer a portionor all of your Post-9/11 GI Bill
education benefits to your
spouse or children using
the Transfer of Education
Benefits website atwww.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect.
For questions about youreligibility and the status of yourtransfer request, contact theappropriate career counseloror personnel center listed atwww.benefits.va.gov/gibill/
post911_transfer.asp.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

www.va.gov/educationy

A 4-year degree
An advanced degree
Technical training
On-the-job training
Vocational school
Flight training
Correspondence courses
Apprenticeships
Certification training
and exams

MODULE 2

The GI Bill can help you pay for tuition and fees, books, supplies, and evenmonthly housing costs. There are three types of GI Bill benefits:y

MODULE 3

Career readiness may involve going back to schoolor participating in skills training. VA GI Bill benefits
can help fund your education dreams.

y

MODULE 4

GI BILL® OVERVIEW

You can use GI Bill
benefits for:

MODULE 5

Education and Training
Resources

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FeatureDescription

Tuition and Fees

At in-state schools, VA covers all tuition and fees and pays theschool directly. At private or foreign schools, VA only pays
tuition and fees up to the national maximum. In other words,
payment for tuition and fees is capped at the national
maximum rate.

Monthly Housing
Allowance

As long as you’re enrolled greater than half-time, (asdetermined by the school), VA pays you a Monthly Housing
Allowance (MHA), based on your length of service and the
ZIP code where you attend the majority of classes. The
allowance is generally the same as the military Basic
Allowance for Housing for an E-5 with dependents.

yVeterans who left active duty
on or after January 1, 2013,
and their spousesyChildren who became
eligible for the Fry
Scholarship on or afterJanuary 1, 2013y

All Fry scholarship-eligible
spouses

IF YOU HAVE ANYQUESTIONS, CALL:
GI BILL HOTLINE:
1-888-GIBILL-1
1-888-442-4551

MHA is not available to you or your spouse while you’reon active duty.
VA pays an additional stipend for books and supplies
directly to you when the school certifies your enrollment.

INTRO
MODULE 5

Books and
Supplies Stipend

MODULE 1

Review the features of the Post-9/11 GI Bill in Table 12.

The bill eliminates the
15-year limitation to use
Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits for:

MODULE 2

The Post-9/11 GI Bill is an education benefit programfor individuals who served on active duty and received
an honorable discharge.

The Harry W. Colmery Veterans
Educational Assistance Act of
2017, or Forever GI Bill,brought changes that affect GI
Bill recipients past and future.

MODULE 3

POST-9/11 GI BILL

Forever GI Bill

MODULE 4

Education and Training
Resources

Table 12: Post-9/11 GI Bill Features

MODULE 6

The Choice Act ensures that, in most cases, you
won’t have to pay out-of-state tuition even if yourpermanent address is in another state.
Section 702 of the Choice Act requires public institutions of higher learning
to offer in-state tuition and fees to all covered individuals for terms thatbegan after July 1, 2015.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

To learn more, visit:www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/docs/factsheets/section_702_factsheet.pdf.

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Fry Scholarship and Purple
Heart recipients are now
eligible for the Yellow
Ribbon Program.

yMonthly Housing
Allowance is now
calculated based on thelocation where you attend
the majority of classes.

y

If your school closed, VA
may restore benefits andgive relief to those affected.

For a list of schools that offer the Yellow Ribbon Program, go towww.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/post-9-11/yellow-ribbon-program.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics(STEM) Scholarship

For more informationwww.va.gov/education/
about-gi-bill-benefits/post-9-11

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

The Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship program assists students training in
high-demand STEM fields. This scholarship will provide up to 9 months ofadditional Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits (to a maximum of $30,000) to qualifying
Veterans and Fry Scholars who are seeking an undergraduate STEM degree or
who have earned a STEM degree and are seeking a teaching certification.

INTRO

y

MODULE 1

You must be eligible for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits at the 100% rate to qualify. If
you qualify, your school will contribute a certain amount toward your extra
tuition and fees through a grant, scholarship, or similar program. VA matches
this contribution.

Purple Heart recipients are
now entitled to the 100% rate
for 36 months of Post-9/11
GI Bill benefits and, therefore,
are also eligible for the Yellow
Ribbon Program.

MODULE 2

The Yellow Ribbon Program can help you pay for higher
out-of-state, private school, or graduate school tuition
that the Post-9/11 GI Bill doesn’t cover.

y

MODULE 3

POST-9/11 GI BILL (continued)

Other Important
Changes in the
Forever GI Bill:

MODULE 4

Education and Training
Resources

Where can I learn more?
www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/fgib/stem.asp

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Education and Training
Resources

INTRO

How do I apply?

POST-9/11 GI BILL (continued)
ONLINE
Reserve

VeteranFamily Member











Apply online at www.va.gov.

MODULE 1

National Guard

To be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill as a service member or Veteran:yYou must have served honorably for at least a total of 90 days on active duty
on or after September 11, 2001, or have been honorably discharged from
active duty for a service-connected disability and served 30 continuous dayson or after September 11, 2001.
To receive 100% of the benefit, you must have served a total of 36 months(aggregate, if you are in the reserve components) on active duty or have beendischarged for a service‐connected disability after 30 days of continuous service.

IN PERSONWork with your school’s
certifying official, go to a VA
regional office, or work with anaccredited VSO representative.

MODULE 3yReview Table 13 for benefit rates based on years of service. The current rates are listed
below but they may be subject to change. Be sure to check VA.gov for any updates.
Years of Service

BY MAIL
Mail VA Form 22-1990,
Application for VA Education
Benefits, to your nearest VA
regional office.

MODULE 4

Percentage of Benefit

At least 36 months

100%

At least 30 continuous days on active duty and must
be discharged due to service-connected disability; OR
received a Purple Heart effective August 1, 201890%

At least 30 months, but less than 36 months

80%

At least 24 months, but less than 30 months

70%

At least 18 months, but less than 24 months

BY PHONE60%

At least 6 months, but less than 18 months

50%

At least 90 days, but less than 6 months

Call VA Education Call Center
toll-free at 1-888-442-4551.

MODULE 5100%

Table 13: Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits Rates

APPENDIX A

Effective October 1, 2011, VA pays benefits to qualifying
Army and Air National Guard members under Title 32.
Payments may be retroactive for enrollment(s) at an approved educational
institution for attendance on or after August 1, 2009. To qualify, you must have:y

Full-time service in the National Guard for the purpose of organizing,
administering, recruiting, instructing, or training, OR
Activation in support of a national emergency under Title 32

APPENDIX By

If you are affected by these changes and you were previously using the
Post-9/11 GI Bill, you will be paid for any additional benefits you would havebeen eligible for because of a higher benefit level.
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MODULE 2

Active Duty

MODULE 6

Am I eligible?

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Education and Training
Resources

INTRO

How do I apply?

MONTGOMERY GI BILL ACTIVE DUTY

MODULE 1

Apply online at www.va.gov.

IN PERSONWork with your school’s
certifying official, go to a VA
regional office, or work with anaccredited VSO representative.

MODULE 3

If you use this benefit while on active duty, the benefits rate will be determinedannually. VA pays benefits directly to you. The benefit may or may not cover all
your tuition and fees.

ONLINE

MODULE 2

The Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD)
provides up to 36 months of education benefits to
Veterans and service members who have at least
2 years of active duty.

BY MAIL

MODULE 4

Mail VA Form 22-1990,
Application for VA Education
Benefits, to your nearest VA
regional office.

National Guard

Reserve

Veteran









Family Member

You may be eligible if you have an honorable discharge and you have:yyyA high school diploma, OR
General Education Development (GED), OR
12 hours of college credit (in some cases)

BY PHONE
Call VA toll-free at
1-800-827-1000.

MODULE 6

Active Duty

MODULE 5

Am I eligible?

APPENDIX A

You have 10 years from your last date of discharge from active duty to use
MGIB-AD benefits.
Eligibility as it relates to members of the reserve components:yy

You must have an honorable discharge, and have a high school diploma
or GED, OR
12 hours of college credit, AND
Paid $1,200 military pay reduction

APPENDIX B

yWhere can I learn more?
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/montgomery-active-duty
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Education and Training
Resources

KEEP IN MIND …

The Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
benefit provides education and training benefits toeligible members of the Selected Reserve.
This includes the Army National Guard, Army Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve,
Navy Reserve, Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve, and Coast Guard Reserve.

y

y
y

y

MODULE 2Family Member

You must have a 6-year service obligation (you agreed to serve 6 years)
in the Selected Reserve, OR
You must be an officer in the Selected Reserve and you agreed to serve
6 years in addition to your initial service obligation, AND
You must complete your initial active duty for training (IADT), AND
You must get a high school diploma or certificate of equal value, like a
High School Equivalency Diploma or GED, before finishing IADT; you can’t
use 12 hours toward a college degree to meet this requirement, AND
You must stay in good standing while serving in an active Selected Reserve
unit. You’ll still be eligible if you’re discharged from Selected Reserve service
due to disability that was not caused by misconduct.

Eligibility ends on the day of separation from the Selected Reserve, unless you were
mobilized. Your eligibility period may be extended if you are ordered to active duty.

IN PERSONWork with your school’s
certifying official, go to a VA
regional office, or work with anaccredited VSO representative.

MODULE 3



Veteran

MODULE 4

Reserve

BY MAIL
Mail VA Form 22-1990,
Application for VA Education
Benefits, to your nearest VA
regional office.

MODULE 5

National Guard

Eligibility as it relates to members of the reserve components:y

ONLINE
Apply online at www.va.gov.

Am I eligible?
Active Duty

How do I apply?

MODULE 1

MONTGOMERY GI BILL SELECTED RESERVE

INTRO

MGIB-SR eligibility isdetermined by the Selected
Reserve components and
VA makes the payments.

MODULE 6

Where can I learn more?
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/montgomery-selected-reserve
BY PHONEAPPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

Call VA toll-free at
1-800-827-1000.

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Education and Training Resources
INTRO

COMPARING GI BILL BENEFITS
You may be eligible for both the Montgomery and Post-9/11 GI Bill
education benefits.

yy

You can only get payments from one program at a time.
You can only get a total of 48 months of benefits under any combination of VA education programs.
|
For a single period of service, you can get up to 36 months of benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill or MGIB.
|
Having multiple periods of service may result in eligibility for an additional 12 months. For example, if
you qualify for both MGIB-AD and MGIB-SR benefits (based on separate periods of service), you can get
36 months of funding at your MGIB-AD payment rate and then an additional 12 months at your MGIB-SR
payment rate, for a total of 48 months.
|
The 48-month limit does not apply if using benefits transferred to a family member.
If you are eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill and another benefit program (like MGIB-AD), you must make anirrevocable election in writing before receiving any Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. This means you cannot changeback to the other program after you receive any Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.
Check out the VA fact sheet, Post-9/11 GI Bill: Factors to Consider at:
www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/factsheets/education/post-911_factors_to_consider.pdf.

MODULE 2y

MODULE 3y

MODULE 1

Take note of these important guidelines regarding eligibility for multiple programs:

Distributionof Funds

VA sends some funds directly to you andsome funds directly to the school where
you’re enrolled.

VA sends all funds directly to you.

Amount Distributed

The Post-9/11 GI Bill pays actual tuition andfees, a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA),
and a stipend for books and supplies.

MGIB pays a flat cash benefit you canspend as you choose.

Buy-Up Option

No buy-up option is available.

A $600 buy-up option is available.

Tuition Assistance“Top-Up”

A Top-Up option is available.

A Top-Up option is available for
MGIB-AD only.

College Fund(or “Kicker”)

College fund payments are added to your MHA.
If you don’t qualify for the housing allowance,
you will not get a college fund payment.

College fund payments are added toyour normal monthly GI Bill payment.

MODULE 5

Montgomery GI Bill

MODULE 6

Post-9/11 GI BillAPPENDIX A

GI Bill Feature

MODULE 4

Review Table 14 to compare some key features of GI Bill benefits.

APPENDIX B

Table 14: Post-9/11 GI Bill Comparison

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Education benefits as it relates to members of the reserve components:yy

VA provides valuable education and training benefits to members of thereserve components, including financial support for undergraduate andgraduate degrees, vocational and technical training, licensing andcertification tests, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training.
You may be eligible for one or more of the following programs if you meetcertain service requirements:|
Post-9/11 GI Bill|
MGIB-SRINTRO

The TAP Curriculum also
provides support in the areaof education. For example,
Managing Your (MY)
Education is a 2-day workshopthat helps you identify thehigher education requirementsthat support your personal
career goals. You can contact
your installation TAP Manager
for information on this workshop.

MODULE 1

COMPARING GI BILL BENEFITS (continued)

TAP Curriculum

MODULE 2

Education and Training
Resources

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

www.va.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool

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Getting Career Ready

INTRO

Activity Worksheet: MaximizingYour GI Bill Benefits
Using the scenarios below, work in pairs to answer the following questions:
2
3

Which GI Bill might Jessica, Andrew, and Maria be eligible for?
How can they maximize their benefits?
Why would they use one GI Bill over another?

MODULE 1

1

Refer to the Comparing GI Bill Benefits section in this guide to answer questions you may have.

Answers

Jessica Davis, Coast Guard Enlisted, Active Duty

Question 1:

Jessica Davis is a young service member who plans toseparate from the Coast Guard after 6 years of service,
which includes one reenlistment. She started working on her
bachelor’s degree while on active duty and used 24 monthsof her education benefits under the MGIB-AD bill. Jessica isseparating in 9 months with an honorable discharge. She
wants to finish her 4-year degree immediately and expects toneed 24 additional months of educational benefits.

MODULE 3

Scenarios

MODULE 2

Use the space below to capture your answers. Be ready to share your findings with the class.

Question 2:

Question 3:

Andrew already used 36 months of his GI Bill while onactive duty to obtain a bachelor’s degree and is no longer
receiving GI Bill benefits.

Question 3:

Maria Perez, Retired Army Officer, Veteran

Question 1:

Maria Perez is a retired Army Officer who separated from
active duty less than a year ago with an honorable discharge
after 27 years of service. Before entering the service, Mariagot a bachelor’s degree, so she transferred 36 months ofeducation benefits to her daughter.
Now, Maria wants to refresh her technical skills with a newcertification because she is looking for work in the field of
information technology/cybersecurity.

Participant Guide | Version 3.3

MODULE 5
MODULE 6

Question 2:

APPENDIX A

Andrew Chang has been in the National Guard for the
past 5 years. Before joining the National Guard, heserved 10 years on active duty. Andrew works for a large
government consulting company and wants to get a few
certifications to remain competitive in his industry.

Question 1:

Question 2:

APPENDIX B

Andrew Chang, National Guard Officer, Veteran

MODULE 4

She has heard about some options under different GI Bills anddefinitely wants to maximize her benefits to finish her degree.

Question 3:

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VA makes it easier to research colleges approved
for the GI Bill.
The GI Bill Comparison Tool (Figure 17) helps you see the impact of youreducation benefits and compares benefits by school. Just answer a few
questions about yourself and the school or employer you are considering, andyou can get an estimate of your GI Bill benefits and some information about theschool’s value and affordability.

INTRO

www.va.gov/gi-billcomparison-tool

Know Before You Go
The video “Know Before You
Go” provides great information
to help you make informed
decisions about youreducation.
To watch the video, visit:www.youtube.com/
watch?v=Z1ttkv9oRI4.

MODULE 1

GI BILL COMPARISON TOOL

GI BillComparison Tool

MODULE 2

Education and Training
Resources

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

You can compare costs based on the specific type of GI Bill benefit you want to use.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

Figure 17: GI Bill Comparison Tool

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Getting Career Ready

INTRO

Activity Worksheet: Use the GI Bill
Comparison Tool
Step 1: Navigate to www.va.gov.
Step 2: Select Compare GI Bill benefits by school in the Education section.

MODULE 1

Step 3: Enter your own information into the GI Bill Comparison Tool.
Step 4: Select the options that interest you and search by state, city, or specific school.
Step 5: Review the results.
Notes

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

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If you have an issue or complaint about a school ortraining facility that’s eligible to receive GI Bill benefits,
you can submit feedback to VA.
The GI Bill Feedback Tool (Figure 18) provides a way to submit a concern or issue
about a school. You can submit feedback anonymously or on behalf of someone else.
Step 1: Navigate to the tool at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/feedback.asp.

INTRO

What should I do if
I have a question about
my specific GI Bill
benefits?
Select the Submit a Question
button on the right-hand sideof the page.

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

Step 2: Fill out the feedback form, following the instructions on each screen.

The GI Bill Feedback
Tool is NOT for
submitting concerns
or issues about VA.

MODULE 1

GI BILL FEEDBACK TOOL

TIP

MODULE 2

Education and Training
Resources

Figure 18: GI Bill Feedback Tool

Step 3: Select the Privacy Policy checkbox.
Step 4: Select the Submit Application button.

MODULE 6

We will review your feedback, pass it along to your school for their review, and getback to you within 45 days to let you know how we’re handling your feedback. We’llalso send you the school’s response and ask if you think it resolves your issue.

y
y

y
y
y

Recruiting and marketing
practices
Student loans
Post-graduation job
opportunities
Quality of education
Release of transcripts
Refund issues

Participant Guide | Version 3.3

y

y
y

y
y
y

Financial issues(such as tuition and fee charges)
Accreditation
Change in degree plan or
requirements
Grade policy
Transfer of credits
Other issues

APPENDIX ByAPPENDIX A

What kind of concerns can I report?

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What is the VetSuccess on Campus (VSOC) program?

Locations andcounselor contact
information:www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/vsoc.asp

Where can I learn more?
www.va.gov/careers-employment/vetsuccess-on-campus

What is the Veterans Integration to Academic
Leadership (VITAL) program and how can it help me?
The VITAL program provides on-campus clinical care and coordination among
your local VA medical center, VBA, campus faculty and staff, and community
resources. It provides VA coordinators on some colleges and universities to help
Veterans integrate into college and university life.
The VITAL program provides services with your well-being and best interestin mind, such as:yyy

MODULE 2

Program sites:www.mentalhealth.va.gov/
studentveteran/vital_program.
asp

Tutorial assistance
may be available
for students who:yHave a remedial needfor tutoringy

Are enrolled at least
half-timeyReceive GI Bill or DEA
education benefits

MODULE 4y

MODULE 5yProvides VA career counseling benefits at participating schools by placing
professionally trained VA career counselors on many college campuses
Helps you get oriented into the campus environment and supports youreducation goals
Aims to see you graduate so you can go on to thrive in the career fieldand community of your choice

College success coaching and transition
Resource referral
Behavioral health

MODULE 6y

MODULE 1

VSOC provides on-campus benefits assistance and counseling to help you complete
your education and prepare to enter the labor market in a viable career. VSOC isavailable to anyone currently eligible for or receiving a VA education benefit or
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) training. This program:

INTRO

ON CAMPUS SUPPORTMORE SUPPORTMODULE 3

Education and Training
Resources

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

www.mentalhealth.va.gov/studentveteran/vital.asp

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Education and Training Resources
INTRO

VA WORK-STUDYMODULE 1

If you’re a full-time or three-quarter time student in a college degree,
vocational, or professional program, you can “earn while you learn”
with a VA work-study allowance.
You might be able to receive a work-study allowance (in addition to your education benefits) for performing
certain types of VA-related work while enrolled in a college degree, vocational, or professional program. You must
attend at least three-quarter time and your allowance is based on the number of hours of work you perform.

yy

MODULE 2

There are specific programs that make you eligible for an allowance. VA will select students for this program
based on different factors, such as:Your ability to complete the work-study contract before your eligibility for education benefits ends
Job availability within your normal commuting distance

MODULE 3

Note: The number of applicants selected will depend on the availability of VA-related work at yourschool or at VA facilities in your area. Veterans with service-connected disabilities of at least 30% may be
given priority consideration.

How much could I earn?

MODULE 4

You will earn an hourly wage equal to the federal minimum wage or your state minimum wage, whichever isgreater. If you’re in a work-study job at a college or university, your school may pay you the difference between theamount VA pays and the amount the school normally pays other work-study students doing the same job as you.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/work-study

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VA can help you learn a trade or skill through VA
on-the-job training (OJT) or apprenticeships.
These programs can help advance your job prospects by allowing you
to learn a trade or skill through training on the job rather than attending
formal classroom instruction.

yy

Veterans
Spouses and children getting benefits through either the Fry Scholarshipor the DEA programChildren who receive transferred benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill

Note: This training is not available to active-duty service members or spouses
using a transferred benefit.

UNION PLUMBER

MODULE 2y

MODULE 3

Both OJT and apprenticeship training programs are available to:

HOTEL MANAGEMENT

How do I get these benefits?

Are these opportunities paid?
Employers generally pay a reduced on-the-job and apprenticeship wage (mustbe at least 50% of journeyman wage).

For more information:www.va.gov/education/
about-gi-bill-benefits/how-touse-benefits/on-the-jobtraining-apprenticeships

MODULE 6

Unless the training establishment is operated by a federal, state, or local
government, periodic wage increases must be granted and, by the last fullmonth of training, the wage must be at least 85% of the wage for a fully
trained employee.
If you are eligible and participating in an approved program, you may beable to use your GI Bill benefits to receive a tax-free stipend equivalent to
the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA), which is paid in addition to yourentry-level wage.

APPENDIX By

FIREFIGHTER

APPENDIX AyMODULE 4

You’ll most likely need to enter into a training contract for a specific periodwith an employer or union and, at the end of the training period, you gain
job certification or journeyman status.
If you want to use your GI Bill benefits to get money for books and supplies,
you’ll need to check with your nearest VA regional office to make sure theprogram is approved for VA education benefits.

INTRO

There are a wide variety ofon-the-job and apprenticeship
opportunities available. Some
examples include:

MODULE 1

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING AND APPRENTICESHIPS

What typesof opportunities
are available?

MODULE 5

Education and Training
Resources

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Education and Training Resources
INTRO

VETERAN EMPLOYMENT THROUGH TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION COURSES
What is the Veteran Employment through Technology Education Courses(VET TEC) program?

MODULE 1

VET TEC is a new program that matches you with a leading training
provider to help you develop skills in one of five high-demand areas. You
can start or advance your career in the high-tech industry with a training
program that’ll take months—or just weeks—to complete. VET TEC is apilot program. You can participate as long as the funding is available.

MODULE 2

Under the VET TEC program, you can get training in one of fivehigh-demand areas (Figure 19):

MODULE 3

Information
Science

Computer
Software

Computer
Programming

Media
Application

MODULE 4

Data
Processing
Figure 19: VET TEC Program Focus Areas

Does this affect my GI Bill eligibility?
MODULE 5

VA pays for VET TEC training and provides an MHA under the GI Bill and you must have at least 1 dayof GI Bill eligibility remaining to qualify for VET TEC. However, participating in VET TEC does not decrease yourmonths of GI Bill eligibility. Remember, you can only get VA education benefits from one program at
a time, so you cannot receive both GI Bill and VET TEC benefits at the same time.

Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

Veteran

MODULE 6

Am I eligible?
Family Member



y
y
y
y

APPENDIX A

You may be eligible for VET TEC if all the following things are true. You:
Aren’t on active duty
Qualify for VA education assistance under the GI Bill
Have at least 1 day of unexpired GI Bill entitlement
Are accepted into a program by a VA-approved training provider

APPENDIX B

Where can I learn more?
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/vettec-high-tech-program

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Career and Employment Resources
INTRO

OVERVIEWVA offers multiple career and employment benefits that can help you
prepare for and find a job.
yyyMODULE 1

We can support you in all stages of your job search, including:
Returning to work with a service-connected disability
Getting more training for new job opportunities
Starting or growing your own business

MODULE 2

We can connect you with Department of Labor resources for more career advice, help building your resume,
and access to employers who want to hire Veterans and military spouses.
VA employment benefits and services include the following programs, and more:
y
y

VR&E
VA for Vets

MODULE 3

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

www.va.gov/careers-employment

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Other services may help you start your own business or live independently
if you are severely disabled and unable to work in traditional employment.
A Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) will work with you to:y

If you are eligible, VR&E may provide additional
education benefits not provided by the GI Bill.

Increases VA’s
responsiveness toyour needsyReduces travel costs andtime for you and for VRCsy

Improves access tonecessary VR&E servicesy

Is available on any device
with a webcam andmicrophoney

Does not require
downloading specialized
software or obtaining
unique usernames andpasswordsyProvides access to ascheduled counselingsession through a uniquelink sent directly to you

We offer five support and services tracks to help you find and keep a job:
y

y

y

y

Rapid Access to Employment Track: If you want a job that matches yourexisting skills, you may be able to get employment counseling and support.
Self-Employment Track: If you’re a service member or Veteran with aservice-connected disability, we can help you start your own business.
Employment through Long-Term Services Track: You may be eligible
for training to help you develop new job skills.
Independent Living Track: We offer services to help you live as
independently as possible if you can’t return to work right away.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX AyReemployment Track: You may have the right to return to the civilian job
you held before you were deployed.

MODULE 5yAssess your interests and abilities
Develop your goals for employment and maximum independence
Explore employment opportunitiesy

MODULE 6y

VR&E telecounseling:

MODULE 1

You might be able to receive VR&E (or Chapter 31) services to help with job training,
employment accommodations, resume development, and job seeking skills.

VR&E now offers telecounselingfor personalized, face-to-faceservice, regardless of where
you live.

MODULE 2

If your service-connected disability limits your ability
to work or prevents you from working, the VeteranReadiness and Employment (VR&E) program can help.

DID YOU KNOW?

MODULE 4

VETERAN READINESS AND EMPLOYMENT (CHAPTER 31)

MODULE 3

Career and Employment
Resources

INTRO

Getting Career Ready

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Career and Employment
Resources

INTRO

How do I apply?

VETERAN READINESS AND EMPLOYMENT (continued)
ONLINE



Review Table 15 for VR&E application eligibility details.
If you are…

You are eligible to apply if you…

An active-duty
service memberyHave a 20% or higher pre-discharge disability rating(memorandum rating) and will soon leave the military, OR

yAre participating in the Integrated Disability Evaluation
System (IDES) process or awaiting discharge due to a
medical condition resulting from a serious injury or illness
that occurred in the line of duty

Note: Severely injured active-duty service members can
automatically receive VR&E benefits before VA issues adisability rating because of Sec. 1631(b) of the National
Defense Authorization Act (PL 110-181).
A VeteranA memberof the reserve
components*yReceived or will receive an honorable or other thandishonorable discharge, ANDyHave a VA service-connected disability rating of 10%
with a serious employment handicap or 20% or morewith an employment handicapy

Are a Veteran with a service-connected disability
rated at 20% or more, ORyAre a Veteran with a service-connected disability rated
at least 10% and your VR&E counselor determines youneed additional services because of a serious
employment handicap, ORyAre hospitalized or receiving outpatient medical care,services, or treatment for a service-connected disability
pending discharge from active duty, OR

yAre severely ill or injured and have been referred to amilitary Physical Evaluation Board or are participatingin the IDES process

Table 15: Eligibiity for VR&E
* Claimants pending medical separation from active duty may also apply if their disabilities arereasonably expected to be rated at least 20% following their discharge.

Participant Guide | Version 3.3

MODULE 1



3. Select Education andTraining.
4. In the Education andTraining section, selectVeteran Readiness andEmployment Benefits.
5. Select Veteran Readinessand Employment Program.

MODULE 2



1. Log in to eBenefits.
2. Select Apply under thesection titled What doyou want to do?

MODULE 3

Family Member

BY MAIL
Mail VA Form 28-1900, Disabled
Veterans Application for VeteranReadiness and Employment, tothe address listed on the form.

MODULE 4

Veteran

MODULE 5

Reserve

IN PERSON
Visit your nearest VA regional
office and have a VA employee
assist you.

MODULE 6

National Guard

APPENDIX A

Active Duty

BY PHONE
Call VA toll-free at
1-800-827-1000.

APPENDIX B

Am I eligible to apply?

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Getting Career Ready

If you’re eligible, we’ll invite you to an orientation session at your nearest
VA regional office after you submit your application.
In general, you must use all VR&E services within 12 years from the date you
separated from active military service, or from the date VA officially notified
you of your disability rating (whichever is later). The basic period of eligibility
may be extended if you have a serious employment handicap.
Service members who have a disability that began or became worse during
active duty and who have not yet received a service-connected disability rating
do not need to wait to apply. See VA Form 28-0588 for further instructions.

Where can I learn more?

IF YOU HAVE ANYQUESTIONS, CALL:

INTRO

You may qualify for
Personalized Career Planning
and Guidance if you recently
separated from the military or
are eligible for VA education
benefits. In addition, if you
transferred Post-9/11 GI Bill
benefits to a child or children,
they may also be eligible for
Personalized Career Planning
and Guidance benefits.

MODULE 1

VETERAN READINESS AND EMPLOYMENT (continued)

YOU MAY ALSOQUALIFY…

MODULE 2

Career and Employment
Resources

VA BENEFITS HOTLINE
1-800-827-1000

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

www.va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation

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PRINT
Getting Career Ready

INTRO

Activity Worksheet: What Services
Does VR&E (Chapter 31) Provide?
Considering what you’ve just learned about the program and consulting VA.gov as needed, complete the checklist
below marking the statements as either True or False.

4

Employment services such as job training, resume development,
and other work-readiness support

5

Education and student advisory benefits only

6

Help finding and keeping a job, including the use of special employer
incentives and job accommodations

7

Telecounseling for personalized, face-to-face service, regardlessof where you live

8

Financial assistance for purchasing your first home in your local area

9

Post-secondary training at a college, vocational, technical,
or business school

10

Guidance on how to pay your student loans

11

Supportive services including case management, counseling,
and medical referrals

12

Independent living services if you’re unable to work due to theseverity of your disabilities

MODULE 2

Assistance with providing guidance on selecting housing andaccessing commercial loans

MODULE 3

3

MODULE 4

Career counseling and planning for employment services

MODULE 5

2

MODULE 6

A complete evaluation to determine your abilities, skills, andinterests for employment

False

APPENDIX B

1

True

APPENDIX A

VR&E Services Include:

MODULE 1

Be prepared to share your responses and thoughts with the class.

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VA for Vets
FedsHireVets

INTRO

y

Your Veteran statusearns you preferencein hiring for federal
government jobs.

MODULE 2

To prove your eligibility, you candownload a Veterans’ Preference
letter from VA.gov by following
these steps:

Step 1:
Visit www.va.gov.

Step 2:

MODULE 3

Go to the Records section
on the home page.

Step 3:
Then select Download
VA benefit letters.

VA is interested in what you have to offer! VA values Veterans because you’rehighly skilled and dedicated employees. At VA, you will find a place where you
can continue to serve as a Veteran.
The Veteran Employment Services Office (VESO) leads VA’s efforts to recruit
qualified Veterans to join our workforce with the VA for Vets program.
VESO can help you by:yyyProviding you with employment assistanceOffering employment and career management resources
Identifying tools and resources to find a job at VA or another federal agency

Step 4:Sign in with your DS Logon,
My HealtheVet, or ID.me
account. If you don’t have anyof these accounts, you cancreate one.
For more information on
Veterans’ Preference, visit:www.fedshirevets.gov/
job-seekers/veteranspreference.

MODULE 6

VA has tools and resources to help you find a job at
VA or at any federal agency that interests you.

APPENDIX A

Only Veterans discharged or released from active duty in the U.S. Armed
Forces under honorable conditions are eligible for Veterans’ Preference.
For more information on your eligibility for Veterans’ Preference, visit
www.fedshirevets.gov/job-seekers/special-hiring-authorities.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

www.vaforvets.va.gov
www.fedshirevets.gov/job-seekers/special-hiring-authorities

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MODULE 1y

MODULE 4

VETERAN EMPLOYMENT SERVICES OFFICE—
VA FOR VETSVA Veteran
Employment Programs

MODULE 5

Career and Employment
Resources

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You can find helpful employment resources at www.va.gov/careers-employment
including:yyy

A military skills translator
Resume builder
Help building your career and finding the right job or business opportunity

The TAP Curriculum also
provides career andemployment workshops.
You can contact your installation
TAP Manager for information on:yCareer Exploration
and Planning Tracky

Department of Labor
Employment WorkshopySmall Business
Administration Boots
to Business Workshop

INTRO
APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

The Intermediate Care Technician (ICT) program is designed to hire former
military corpsman and medics into positions at VA medical centers. This program
allows you to work in a skilled position right away, while working toward gettinga specific degree that can lead to an advanced clinical position. The ICT program
has a career pathway for former medics and corpsmen who are interested inacademic degrees leading to advanced professional clinical positions.

TAP Curriculum

MODULE 1

VA has programs to help you find meaningful careers
in health care, including specialized and technicalcareer paths.

www.vacareers.va.gov/careers/intermediatecare

MODULE 2

VA EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIESTo learn more about
the ICT program, visit:

MODULE 3

Career and Employment
Resources

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Career and Employment Resources
INTRO

VA EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES (continued)

y

y

y

y

Finance: Provides a wide range of hands-on fiscal activities such as accounting, budget analysis, andVA’s managerial cost accounting system.
Health Information Management: Provides the opportunity to gain substantive work experience at
all levels in a clinical setting.

MODULE 2yCompliance and Business Integrity: Offers the opportunity to learn and expand your knowledge andskills as a health information analyst.

Human Resources Management: Develops well-trained human resources professionals througha comprehensive curriculum that includes both practical and instructive learning segments.
Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist: Provides clinical and administrative support to staff,
patients, and administrators for the facility-wide life cycle management of medical equipment.

MODULE 3y

MODULE 1

Technical Career Field (TCF) internships function as an intensive, 2-year training program required for certain
specialized career paths. This is the first step to secure an engaging career with VA. Program participants receive
paid salary and benefits, training, a travel stipend, access to a mentor, and hands-on training. There are several
different career fields available within the program. A few examples of career paths include:

Biomedical/Clinical Engineers: Provides support and advance patient care by applying engineering andmanagerial skills to our health care technology.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

www.vacareers.va.gov
www.vacareers.va.gov/careers/technicalfield

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Getting Career Ready

Summary of Education Benefits
INTRO

COMPARISON OF PROGRAMS

MGIB-AD(Chapter 30)

MGIB-SR(Chapter 1607)

90 days active aggregate service (90 days on
active service total) (after September 10, 2001)
or 30 days continuous service if discharged
for disability

2-year continuous
enlistment (minimum
duty varies by service
date, branch, etc.)

6-year commitment(after June 30, 1985)

36

36

36

Paid to student

Paid to student

Generally, 10 years fromlast day of active duty

Generally, ends theday you leave theSelected Reserve

Maximum Number ofMonths of Benefits 1
How Payments Are Made

MODULE 2

Minimum Lengthof Service

Post-9/11 GI Bill

MODULE 3

Criteria

MODULE 1

VA’s education programs have different requirements concerning length of military service, and the benefits
are paid out differently. Table 16 illustrates some of these differences. It also gives an overview of some of themain education and training benefits that the programs offer. This provides general information about issues
such as eligibility—note that some exceptions may apply.

Tuition: Paid to school
Housing stipend: Paid to student







Non-College Degree
TrainingOn-the-Job andApprenticeship Training







Flight Training







Correspondence Courses







Licensing andCertification Tests







National Testing
ProgramsWork-Study Program







Tutorial Assistance







MODULE 5

Degree Training

MODULE 6

Generally, benefits do not expire if yourservice ended after January 1, 2013

APPENDIX A

Duration of Benefits

MODULE 4

Books and supplies: Paid to student

Table 16: Comparison of Education Benefit Programs
Maximum Number of Months of Benefits: You may receive a maximum of 48 months of benefits combined if you are eligible for more thanone VA education program.

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APPENDIX B

1

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Getting Career Ready

Summary of Education Benefits
INTRO

COMPARISON OF PROGRAMS (continued)

36

45

N/A

N/A

Paid to student

Paid to student

N/A

18 months (6 months
before separation to
1 year after separation)

10 years from last dayof active duty

Spouse: 10/20 years 3

12 years from the dateyou separated from
active duty or got
your disability rating

Degree Training









Non-College Degree
Training









On-the-Job andApprenticeship Training









Flight Training









Correspondence Courses









Licensing andCertification Tests









National Testing
Programs









Work-Study Program









Tutorial Assistance









Maximum Number ofMonths of Benefits 1
How Payments Are Made
Duration of Benefits

One or two freepersonalizedcoaching sessions

Child: Ages 18–26

MODULE 2

N/A

MODULE 3

N/A

MODULE 4

181 continuousdays of active
service (between
December 31, 1976,
and July 1, 1985) 2

Minimum Lengthof Service

MODULE 5

VR&E

Criteria

MODULE 6

N/A

DEA(Chapter 35)

APPENDIX A

Veterans Educational
Assistance Program(Chapter 32)

Table 16 (continued): Comparison of Education Benefit Programs
1

Maximum Number of Months of Benefits: You may receive a maximum of 48 months of benefits combined if you are eligible for more thanone VA education program.

2

181 continuous days of active service (between December 31, 1976, and July 1, 1985): The amount of time varies according to when you
enlisted and entered active duty.

3

Spouse: 10/20 years: Spouses are generally eligible to receive benefits for 10 years. However, spouses of individuals rated totally and permanently
disabled within 3 years of discharge and spouses of individuals who die on active duty are granted a 20-year eligibility period.

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APPENDIX B

Personalized Career
Planning andGuidance

MODULE 1

Additional education benefits for Veterans may be offered in your state. Contact your State Veterans Affairs
Office or similar agency to learn more about state-level programs.


Getting Career Ready

INTRO

Activity Worksheet:
Update Your Personal Checklist
It’s that time again! Go back to Appendix B and update your checklist based on what you just learned
regarding VA education benefits, services, and tools, as well as employment resources that are available
to you and your family.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

For this portion, look at Sections 6 through 8 of the checklist.

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MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

Finding a
Place to LiveAPPENDIX B

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO






MODULE 4ySome of you may know where you’ll live after separation, some don’t. Stillothers are considering whether to rent, build, buy, or something else.
It might seem like a simple question, but at this stage of your journey (Figure 20)
it’s important to ask yourself:

Where will I live?

yyDiscovering Housing
Options:y

VA Home Loan Guaranty
ProgramyProtecting Your Investment
Homeless Veterans SupportyState and Local
Benefits:

MODULE 4
Finding a
Place to Liveyy

MODULE 3
Getting
Career Readyyyy

MODULE 5
Maintaining
Your Health
MODULE 1
NavigatingYour Journey

MODULE 2
Supporting
Yourself andYour Family

Figure 20: Your Transition Journey

Personal Decision Influences
VA Facility Locators

MODULE 6
Connecting withYour Community

Information For Your State
Military OneSource
National Resource Directory
State Benefits Package
State Veterans Affairs Offices

KEEP IN MIND…
The National Guard website(www.nationalguard.mil)
is a great resource that offers
helpful information andprograms, including National
Guard websites for every state.
You can visit the website
provided and explore thewebsite(s) for your state.

APPENDIX A

Where you live will impact every aspect of your life—your opportunities
for education and employment, your housing budget, your access tohealth care, and more.

APPENDIX B

VA offers benefits and services related to housing options
and can help you find resources in your local community.
Where can I learn more?
www.va.gov/housing-assistancewww.nationalguard.mil
Participant Guide | Version 3.3

MODULE 2yIdentify factors that influence your decision on where to live.
Identify VA benefits and services that can support your housing needs.
Identify tools to locate state and local resources.

MODULE 3y

MODULE 4

Comparing Locations:

Upon completion of Module 4, you will be able to:

MODULE 5

IN THIS MODULE…

MODULE 6

Introduction

MODULE 1

INTRO

Finding a
Place to Live

94




Finding a Place to LiveWe all have different priorities and different ideas about what is mostimportant, such as:
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y

Cost of living
Housing availability
Health of the job market
Schools and training opportunities
Proximity to family and friends
Where you grew up
ClimateAnd moreYour goals are based on your own personal circumstances. You should consider
factors that are most important to you personally. For example, you may want
to be close to your parents, or maybe you’re planning to relocate near thecollege where you got accepted.

y

Are there available jobs
in that industry in the area
where you want to live?

yWhat is the expected
income for that type ofjob in the area?

yWhat is the average costof housing in the area?

y

Does it fall within yourbudget based on yourestimated income?

yWhat type of local
resources are available(for example, expanded
commissary and exchange
privileges, if you qualify)?

yWhat are your personalgoals and how may they
impact your decision?

INTRO

What type of work do you
want to do?

MODULE 1

What is the number one, most important factor
to consider when you decide where to live?

y

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

One factor you may want to consider is whether there
are VA facilities in your area.

MODULE 2PERSONAL DECISION INFLUENCES

Consider the following
questions:

MODULE 3

Comparing Locations

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Finding a Place to Live

Comparing Locations
INTRO

VA FACILITY LOCATORSVA has various facilities to assist you with identifying and accessing VA benefits and services that meet yourneeds. This is something you might want to consider when you decide where to live.

Hospitals and Clinics

www.va.gov/directory/guide/division.asp?dnum=1

Regional Offices

www.va.gov/directory/guide/division.asp?dnum=3

Regional Loan Centerswww.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/contact_rlc_info.asp

Transition and Care Management Teams

www.oefoif.va.gov/map.asp

Caregiver Support Coordinators

www.caregiver.va.gov/help_landing.asp

Fisher Housewww.socialwork.va.gov/fisher_house_locations.asp

Social Work Services

www.socialwork.va.gov

Vet Centerswww.va.gov/find-locations/?facilitytype=vet_center

Veterans Service Organizations

www.benefits.va.gov/vso

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Support

www.ptsd.va.gov

Military Sexual Trauma Coordinators

www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/mstcoordinators.asp

VA Cemeterieswww.va.gov/find-locations/?facilitytype=cemetery

MODULE 2

www.va.gov/find-locations

MODULE 3

VA Locations

MODULE 4

Locator Tool

MODULE 5

Facility TypeMODULE 1

Table 17 includes a list of locator tools to find different types of VA facilities.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

Table 17: VA Facility Locator Tools

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PRINT
Finding a Place to LiveINTRO

Activity Worksheet: Exploring the
VA Facility Locator Tool

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

Take a few minutes to explore VA’s Facility Locator Tool (Figure 21) on your own, based on services you think
you may need. Your facilitator will demonstrate this tool.

Figure 21: VA Facility Locator Tool

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

1. Access www.va.gov on your computer or mobile device.
2. Select the Find a VA Location tab from the top menu.
3. Enter a city, state, or ZIP code in the Search city, state, or postal code field.
4. Select the Search button.
5. Select the facility type from the Search for drop-down field. You can search for VA health facilities,
benefits offices, cemeteries, and Vet Centers near where you might live.
6. Once you select an option from the Search for drop-down field, the Service type (optional) field
populates with specific facilities that are optional to choose from.
7. Select Search and the map below shows location options. You’ll see a list of the facilities next to themap. Scroll down to view the entire list.
Write down the information about key VA resources in your area here:
Key VA Resource:

APPENDIX B

Key VA Resource:
Key VA Resource:

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Finding a Place to Live

Discovering Housing Options

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1INTROOVERVIEW

MODULE 5

It’s important to consider where you’re going to live—whether that’s moving
in with your family or buying a home.
Factors you may want to consider include:yy

Do you already know where you will live?
Do you have a home you’re moving back into?
Are you planning to rent, buy, or build?

MODULE 6y

Make sure you understand early on how VA benefits and services help support you and your family. That could
be another factor in your decision.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

No matter your situation, VA can help you explore housing options and secure a place to live. You can takeadvantage of benefits like the VA Home Loan Guaranty program and housing grants or get help from a VHA
social worker to find housing. Whatever path you take, VA is here to support you.

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Finding a Place to Live

INTRO

Buy, build, repair, alter, renovate, or improve a home
Refinance an existing home loan to reduce the interest rate
Buy or refinance an existing loan on a manufactured (mobile) home
Improve a home by installing energy-efficient features like solar heating
and cooling systems, water heater insulation, storm windows and doors, orother approved improvements

Documentation requirements
vary for:

y
y

y
y
y

y

Members of the reserve
components who were
never activatedySurviving spouses

Am I eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member











To be eligible, you must agree to personally occupy the home and have allof the following:yyySatisfactory credit
Sufficient income
A valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Eligibility as it relates to members of the reserve components:yyy

You served for 90 days or more on active duty during a wartime period, OR
You were discharged or released from active duty for a service-connecteddisability, OR
You have 6 years of service in the Selected Reserve or National Guard, AND|
Were discharged honorably, OR|
Were placed on the retired list, OR|
Were transferred to the Standby Reserve for an element of the ReadyReserve other than the Selected Reserve after honorable service, OR|
Continue to serve in the Selected Reserve

Active duty
Veterans
Current or former membersof the reserve components

KEEP IN MIND…
In some cases, you can get your
COE through your lender. Most
lenders have access to the
WebLGY system. This internetbased application can establish
eligibility and issue an online
COE in a matter of seconds.
Ask your lender about
this option.

MODULE 5y

MODULE 6y

You may need to provide
documentation to proveyour eligibility.

MODULE 1

To get a COE, apply online at
eBenefits.

MODULE 2

VA helps you (or your eligible surviving spouse) become homeowners. Under
the VA Home Loan Guaranty program, you can get a home loan through a private
lender—like a bank or a mortgage company—and VA guarantees a portion of theloan to protect the lender against loss if you don’t make payments. You can use
the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program to:

MODULE 3

VA HOME LOAN GUARANTY PROGRAM

How do I get a
Certificate of
Eligibility?

MODULE 4

Discovering Housing Options

APPENDIX A

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/how-to-apply

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Discovering Housing Options

Refer to Figure 22 to navigate to the VA-backed home loans site to review thehome-buying process.

MODULE 1

Research and contact
multiple lenders. Eachlender sets its own
interest rates, discountpoints, and fees; someare negotiable. Find alender who offers themost favorable terms
for you.

The process to obtain a VA Home Loan Guaranty is notdifficult. It includes looking at your finances, applying
for your COE, choosing a lender and real estate agent,and finding and buying a home. You can learn all about
it on VA.gov.

Ask your family, friends,
or colleagues if they haverecommendations.

MODULE 2

GETTING A VA-BACKED HOME LOAN

INTRO

TIP

If you filed a disability claim,
remind your lender that you
need to fill out VA Form
26-8937, Verification of VA
Benefits, and submit it to
VA. This will help determine
if you are exempt from thefunding fee.

y

You can pay the fee in cash
or include it in your loan.

y

If you file a disability claim
before closing on yourhome, you may be able toget your funding fee
refunded.

Figure 22: VA-Backed Home Loan Process

TIP

VA strongly recommends that you get a home inspection.
Your realtor or lender may recommend someone, but you
should find someone who is not connected to anyone in thesale. You want a fair evaluation of the home, so you can makethe best decision for you and your family. Both the appraisal
and inspection can be useful negotiating tools.

APPENDIX A

Stay on top of it! If there are issues—such as with the homevalue, the roof, or appliances—you can negotiate with theseller about lowering the price, replacing or fixing the issue,or splitting the costs of necessary repairs with you.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/home-buying-process

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MODULE 4y

MODULE 5

At closing, you have to pay
a funding fee unless you’reeligible for VA disability
compensation.

MODULE 6y

MODULE 3

DID YOU KNOW?

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Veterans who have VA home loans have the lowest foreclosure rates in the
country because VA has resources to help you avoid foreclosure in times offinancial hardship. You can contact VA’s regional loan center technicians if
you need assistance.

INTRO

VA also provides assistance designed to help you
avoid foreclosure.

Be sure to budget
for monthly mortgage
payments you can afford
once all your otherexpenses are paid.

MODULE 1

PROTECTING YOUR INVESTMENT

TIP

Remember, life changes
affect the amount ofmoney you have on
hand to make yourmortgage payment.

MODULE 2

Discovering Housing Options

IF YOU HAVE ANYQUESTIONS, CALL:MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

HOME LOAN GUARANTYPROGRAM CALL CENTER
1-877-827-3702

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans
www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/trouble-making-paymentswww.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/contact_rlc_info.asp

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Finding a Place to Live

y

y

y

You might get mailers or calls with offers to refinance mortgages; they may
make some misleading claims.
Many of these solicitations promise extremely low interest rates, thousandsof dollars in cash back, skipped mortgage payments, and no out-of-pocket
costs or waiting period.
Be sure to research any offer before you accept to make sure it is legitimate
and in your best financial interest.

Where can I learn more?

Predatory lending practices
can trigger chain reactions
that result in higher interest
rates to all Veterans.

y

The Protecting Veteransfrom Predatory Lending
Act of 2018 mandates new
requirements for VA-backed
home loans.

yThis law is designed toprotect Veterans frompredatory lending practices
known as “loan churning”
or “serial refinancing” whenobtaining a VA-guaranteedrefinance loan.

INTRO

Be aware of predatory lending practices. Somelenders take advantage of service members andVeterans with home loans.

y

MODULE 1

PROTECTING YOUR INVESTMENT (continued)

KEEP IN MIND…

MODULE 2

Discovering Housing Options

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans

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PRINT
Finding a Place to LiveINTRO

Activity Worksheet: Identifying
Red Flags
Look at the sample advertisement in Figure 23. Is this advertisement targeting Veterans? Can you spot some
red flags that might concern you? Write down any red flags you see in the space below.

OFFIC
I
U.S. VEAL NOTICE:TERANSMODULE 2

Veterans Mortgage Servicing Department
RE: Your Chase Financial Loan #1246864
Balance: $143,786.47

MODULE 1

DO NOT DISCARD: ACCOUNT INFORMATION ENCLOSEDAttention Homeowner,

MODULE 3

Congress recently passed a Homeowners Assistance Program that now allows VA
to oﬀer incredibly low rates to Veterans! The deadline for taking advantage ofthis program is fast approaching, and VA doesn’t want you to miss thisopportunity to save thousands.

MODULE 4

You’re pre-qauliﬁed for an unbeatable ﬁxed rate of only 2.25%! The process isfast and easy, and the application fee is just $35. VA-certiﬁed loan specialists are
standing by to help you today. No funding fee – guaranteed!
Keep your loan in good standing – don’t ignore this oﬀer. Call now!

MODULE 5

1-888-555-5555
Figure 23: Sample Advertisement for Veterans

MODULE 6

Red Flag:
Red Flag:

APPENDIX ARed Flag:
Red Flag:
Red Flag:

APPENDIX B

Red Flag:
Red Flag:Participant Guide | Version 3.3

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Discovering Housing Options

The National Call Center for Homeless Veterans hotline ensures that
Veterans who are homeless or are at risk to become homeless have free, 24/7
access to trained counselors. The hotline also helps VA medical centers; federal,state, and local partners; community agencies; service providers; and others in
the community find resources and support for Veterans.

Am I eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member











Explorewww.va.gov/homeless.

yCall or visit your local
VA medical center orcommunity resource andreferral center where VA staff
members are ready to help.

yCall 1-877-4AID-VET(1-877-424-3838) to access
VA services.

DID YOU KNOW?
VA has resources for incarcerated
and justice-involved Veterans. If
you know a Veteran who mayneed this kind of help andinformation, go to:ywww.va.gov/homeless/vjo.aspywww.va.gov/homeless/reentry.asp

MODULE 1yy

MODULE 2yConduct coordinated outreach to proactively seek out Veterans inneed of assistanceConnect Veterans who experience or are at risk of homelessness with housing
solutions, health care, community employment services, and other support
Work to expand employment and affordable housing options for Veteransexperiencing homelessness by collaborating with partners including:|Federal, state, and local agencies|
Employers|
Housing providers|
Faith-based and community nonprofits

MODULE 3y

For more
information…

MODULE 4

VA is committed to ending Veteran homelessness. The focus of the Homeless
Veterans Program is to:

INTRO

HOMELESS VETERANS SUPPORTMODULE 5

Eligibility for assistance with health care, housing, mental health, andemployment may vary.

MODULE 6

If you’re not sure where you’ll live after separation
and are concerned or have any thoughts about thepossibility of being homeless, please schedule a
One-On-One Assistance session with your Benefits
Advisor immediately. Also, let your TAP Manager
know during your Capstone event and reach out toleadership at your command or installation.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

Be sure to share these resources with other service members or Veterans in need.

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State and Local Benefits
INTRO

Military OneSource:yyProvides free access to resources for service members, their families,
survivors, and the entire military community
Connects you to programs, services, and products 24/7, 365 days a year,
from anywhere in the world
Allows you and your family to continue using services for 365 days after
your separation

If you are a current member of the Coast Guard,
you can use the CG SUPRT system in addition to
Military OneSource.

To learn more about CG SUPRT,
visit www.cgsuprt.com.

To learn more about the
National Resource Directory,
visit nrd.gov.

MODULE 3y

MODULE 4

CG SUPRT offers free and confidential services specific to Coast Guard members.
As a member of the Coast Guard, or as a spouse or family member, this is a goodplace to start your research for support services. You don’t have access to
Military OneSource now, but you have 365 days of access after you separate
from the Coast Guard.

MODULE 5

The National Resource Directory (NRD) is anothergovernment-owned search tool that provides accessto vetted resources.
NRD connects you to resources and services that support all service members,
wounded and injured Veterans, family members, and caregivers. This includes
topics like:

y
y
y
y

MODULE 6yFinancial planning
Education, training, and employment
Health care
Housing
Day care
And more

APPENDIX Ay

NRD connects you with resources and services that come from:yyyFederal, state, and local government agencies
Veterans Service Organizations and Military Service Organizations
Nonprofit and community-based organizations
Academic institutions and professional associations

Participant Guide | Version 3.3

APPENDIX By

MODULE 1

Military OneSource is a government-owned searchtool that provides online information and resources
vetted by DoD.

To learn more about
Military OneSource, visit
www.militaryonesource.mil
or call 1-800-342-9647.

MODULE 2

FINDING LOCAL RESOURCES

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Finding a Place to LiveINTRO

Activity Worksheet: Explore the
National Resource Directory
The National Resource Directory (Figure 24) can be a valuable resource that includes only vetted sources on
many topics. It provides access to services and resources at the national, state, and local levels to support
recovery, rehabilitation, and community reintegration.

MODULE 1

To complete the activity:

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

1. Go to nrd.gov and take some time to explore the directory on your own.
2. Search by category for topics like housing, employment, financial planning, day care, and more.
3. Use this site to get the information you need; it can save you and your family time and money.
4. Capture the information in the space provided below.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

Figure 24: National Resource Directory SearchParticipant Guide | Version 3.3

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State Veterans Affairs Offices serve the Veterans of eachstate and their dependents and survivors in all matterspertaining to Veterans benefits.

INTRO

INFORMATION FOR YOUR STATE

Connect with
State Veterans Affairs
Officeswww.va.gov/statedva.htm

MODULE 1

State and Local Benefits

They deliver a series of seamless services to eligible Veterans and their families
and unify the Veteran community by building alliances to enhance available
financial resources.

MODULE 2

Did you know that your state may offer specific benefits
in addition to what VA offers?
For example, Texas’ Hazelwood Act:y

Provides you and your eligible spouses and dependents with an education
benefit of up to 150 hours of tuition exemption
Covers most fees at public institutions of higher education in Texas

MODULE 3y

VA.gov provides state-specific information about state VA benefits. You canselect a state or territory to visit the website for that location’s VA’s office.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5This packet provides specific information about benefits, programs, andservices in that state.

To request a packet for yourstate, select State Benefits
Information Packet fromthe Learn tab atwww.ebenefits.va.gov.

MODULE 4

At eBenefits, you can request a State Benefits
Information Packet for any state you are interested in.

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Finding a Place to LiveINTRO

Activity Worksheet: Request a State
Benefits Information Packet
At this time, we’re going to walk through the steps to request a State Benefits Information Packet.
Step 1: Go to www.ebenefits.va.gov on your computer or mobile device.

MODULE 1

Step 2: Select the Login button in the upper right corner.
Step 3: Log in using your DS Logon credentials.
Step 4: Select State Benefits Information Packet from the Learn tab at the top of the page.

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

Step 5: Verify the pre-populated information on the screens that follow (populated with your DS Logonaccount information) and fill in the Actual/Expected Separation Date field (Figure 25).

MODULE 6

Figure 25: Requesting a State Benefits Information Packet

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

Step 6: Select the Submit button.

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Finding a Place to LiveINTRO

Activity Worksheet:
Update Your Personal Checklist
Now it’s time to go back to Appendix B and update your checklist based on what you just learned about homeloans, state and local benefits, buying a home, and locating VA facilities.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

For this portion, look at Sections 9 through 11 of the checklist.

Participant Guide | Version 3.3109APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4This page is intentionallyleft blank

APPENDIX B

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO





APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

Maintaining
Your Health

APPENDIX B

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO






MODULE 5

IN THIS MODULE…
VA Whole Health:

One of the most important things to consider when planning your transition is
your overall health. Some of you may be in good health, and others may havevarying degrees of service-connected disabilities. You need to think about how
to take accountability for your health and health care going forward.
At this stage of your journey (Figure 26), the first thing to ask yourself is:

How will I maintain my health and that of my family?

y
y
y
y

y
y

y

MODULE 3
Getting
Career Readyy

MODULE 5
Maintaining
Your Health

Figure 26: Your Transition Journeyyyy

MODULE 6
Connecting withYour Community

Manage your health care needs
Find health care options for your family
Take care of your mental healthParticipant Guide | Version 3.3

Mental Health Care
Vet Centers
Maintaining Your
Mental HealthMy HealtheVet
Veterans Health Information
Exchange (VHIE)

Decision Making Tools:

VA can provide total health solutions to help you:y

Caregiver Support Program
Fisher House

Health Care Tools:

y
y
y
y

y

Primary Care
Women’s Health Care
Transition Care
Dental Care

Family Support:y

MODULE 2
Supporting
Yourself andYour Family

MODULE 2

VA Health Care
Services:

VA Mental HealthCare Services

MODULE 4
Finding a
Place to Live

MODULE 1
NavigatingYour Journey

VA Health Care Facilities
Care In Your Community

MODULE 3yy

VA Health Care Portal
Eligibility
Outreach Programs
VA Health Benefits Explorer

VA Health Care Access:yy

MODULE 4yy

MODULE 5y

Describe the VA whole health approach to care.
Describe VA health care services and facilities.
Identify VA programs to support your mental health.
Locate and use VA health care information to apply for and manage health care.

Applying for VA Health Care
Preparing for Your First
Appointment

112

MODULE 6y

APPENDIX A

Upon completion of Module 5, you will be able to:

APPENDIX B

Introduction

MODULE 1

INTRO

Maintaining
Your Health

VA Whole Health
OVERVIEW
VA takes a modern approach to health care witha focus on whole health.
Whole health (Figure 27):
Is a comprehensive, patient-centered approach rooted in forming continuous
healing partnerships to help you achieve your greatest well-being
Includes all the necessary inpatient hospital care and outpatient services
to promote, preserve, or restore your health

Other
Team
Members

MODULE 1

8 Keys to Self-Care
1. Working Your Body
2. Your Surroundings
3. Personal Development
4. Food and Drink
5. Recharging
6. Family, Friends, and
Co-Workers

MODULE 2y

A key part of whole healthis self-care.

7. Spirit and Soul
8. Power of the Mind

MODULE 3yWhole healthaddresses the healthof your mind, body,and soul.

INTRO

Maintaining Your Health

MODULE 4

Patient Aligned
Care Team (PACT)MODULE 5

Patient

Figure 27: VA Whole Health Approach

MODULE 6

What are my health care options?
VA has something for everyone, even if you don’t have a service-connecteddisability. VA provides a full range of health care services, including:yyyRegular check-up appointments with specialists (like cardiologists,gynecologists, and mental health providers)
Veteran health care services like home health and geriatric (elder) care
Medical equipment, prosthetics, and prescriptions you needSpecilaty programs tailored to women’s health care, complex carecoordination, dental care, transition care, and more

APPENDIX AyAPPENDIX B

Where can I learn more?
www.va.gov/health-care

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Maintaining Your HealthyyCommunity-Based
Outpatient Clinics

Residential Care
Facilities, or Domiciliary
Care Facilities

Community Living
Centers for Short- andLong-Term Nursing
Home Care

Vet Centers

Located throughout the nation
Offer a wide range of services, such as basic or
preventive care and traditional hospital-based
services—like surgery; critical care; and mental,social, and emotional well-being programsyProvide the opportunity to get all your carein one placeyBring access to care closer to home
Offer the most common outpatient services,
including health and wellness visitsyyProvide residential treatment and rehabilitative
services to eligible Veterans who have a wide
range of concerns, illnesses, or rehabilitative
care needsyOffer services for those dealing with mental
health disorders; substance use disorders;
posttraumatic stress disorder; homelessness;and vocational, educational, or social issuesyProvide care for Veterans whose needs no longer
require acute hospitalizationy

Focus on restoring or maintaining the highest
degree of functional independence possibleyAre available for some Veterans indefinitely; other
Veterans may qualify only for a limited periodyProvide a broad range of free, confidential
counseling, outreach, and referral services to
Veterans, active-duty service members, andtheir familiesyOffer counseling for a successful transition frommilitary to civilian life or after a traumatic event
experienced in the militaryy

Go to www.va.gov
and select the Find a
VA Location menu.

yComplete the fields
and select Search.

INTRO
MODULE 1

VA Medical Centers

MODULE 2

Locator Tool

Use the VA Locator Tool
to locate outpatient clinics,
hospitals, and Vet Centersnear you:

MODULE 3

Facility TypeHow do I locate
a facility?

MODULE 4

There are many VA health care facilities located across the U.S. that offer a wide
range of services. Review the types of facilities listed in Table 18.

MODULE 5

Where can I receive care?

VA operates the largest
integrated health care systemin the nation, including morethan 1,200 facilities!

MODULE 6

VA HEALTH CARE FACILITIESDID YOU KNOW?

APPENDIX A

VA Whole Health

APPENDIX B

Table 18: VA Health Care Facilities

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Maintaining Your Health

Am I eligible for community care?
Under the VA MISSION Act of 2018, you have more ways to access health carewithin VA’s network and through approved non-VA providers called “community
care providers.” Situations where non-VA care may be covered include:
1. You need a service not available at a VA medical facility.
2. You live in a state without a full-service VA medical facility.
3. You qualify under the “Grandfather” provision related to the 40-miles
distance criteria under the Veterans Choice Program.
4. VA cannot furnish care within specific wait time and drive time standards.
5. It is in your best medical interest.
6. A VA service line does not meet specific quality standards.

Where can I learn more?

If you live or travel abroad,the VA Foreign Medical
Program may pay for healthcare services, medications,and specific equipment
associated with your serviceconnected conditions.
Eligibility requirements vary.
To learn more and enroll, visit
www.va.gov/communitycare/programs/veterans/fmp.
IF YOU HAVE ANYQUESTIONS, CALL:FOREIGN MEDICAL PROGRAM
1-877-345-8179

INTRO
APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

www.missionact.va.gov

What if I need careoutside of the U.S.?

MODULE 1

We may refer you to a community provider. Your eligibility for community care
will be based on your specific needs and circumstances. Your VA provider will
work with you to determine if you’re eligible.

MODULE 2

What if I’m not near a VA facility?

To inquire about authorized
hospital care and medical
services in non-VA health carefacilities, contact your nearest
VA health care facility or call
1-877-222-8387.

MODULE 3

VETERAN COMMUNITY CARE

For more information:

MODULE 4

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When you sign up for VA health care, we’ll assign you to a health care teamcalled a Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT). Your team will be made up of you,those who support you (like your family members and caregivers), and yourhealth care providers.
Your team’s goal is to plan for all the care you need to help you stay healthy
throughout your life. Your team will:
y

y

y

INTRO

y

Licensed practical nurse or
medical assistant and clerkyOther providers, likespecialists or social workers,
when you need it

For more information:
Visit www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/
your-care-team for detailed
information on primary care.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5y

Build a partnership with you. You’ll work with your team to plan and makedecisions. Your team will offer wellness care, education, and lifestylecoaching to help you stay healthy.
Provide or arrange for preventive care, such as immunizations to prevent
illness and early screenings for diseases like cancer, when earlier treatment ismost likely to be successful.
Help you get care in the ways that work best for you, including visitswith your primary care provider, group clinics, 24/7 telephone care, online
educational information, and secure messaging with your health care team.
Coordinate your care. Team members will meet often to talk with you—and each other—about your progress and goals. And they’ll coordinate any
care you may need from specialists outside the team.

yPrimary care provider
Clinical pharmacist
Registered nurse caremanager

MODULE 1

At VA, we take a team approach to primary care—with you at the center.
Research shows this kind of approach leads to better quality care, more satisfied
patients, and fewer hospital visits.

y

MODULE 2

What is primary care?

y

MODULE 3

PRIMARY CARE

Your PACT teamincludes a:

MODULE 4

VA Health Care Services

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VA Health Care Services
INTRO

WOMEN VETERANS HEALTH CARE
Women are the fastest growing group among
the Veteran population.

y
y

y

y

y

What if I’m pregnant?
If you or your spouse arepregnant at the time oftransition, you may be eligible
to extend your in-service
health care benefits through6 weeks post-delivery.

For more information:
Contact your branch of service.

MODULE 4

At each VA medical center nationwide, a Women Veterans Program Manager isavailable to advise and advocate for women Veterans. She can help coordinate
all the services you may need.
In addition to the services listed above, your Women Veterans Program Manager
can help if you are:yyHomeless
A victim of domestic violence
In search of education, training, or employment assistance

MODULE 5y

MODULE 2yGeneral services, like disease prevention and nutrition counseling
Female-specific services, like birth control, preconception counseling,
and menopausal support
Screenings, like Pap smears and mammograms
Mental health services for depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
and substance use problems
Free, confidential counseling and treatment for mental and physical healthconditions related to military sexual trauma
Specialty services, including screening and management of chronic
conditions, maternity care, fertility and reproductive services, prosthetic
and sensory aid services, and more
Care from a female provider, if that’s what you prefer

MODULE 3y

MODULE 1

VA is dedicated to meeting the health care needs of all Veterans. If you qualify
for VA health care, you can access high-quality women’s health services as partof your benefits, which include:

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/womens-health-needs

You can also contact the Women Veterans Call Center at 1-855-829-6636.
Our trained, all-female staff will help answer your questions.
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The TCM team at your home VA medical center can connect you with theappropriate VA health care and resources you need to help ease your transition
from active duty to Veteran status.
Every VA medical center has a TCM team ready to welcome Post-9/11 Veterans
into the VA health care system. The TCM program provides the following services.

y

y

y

y

y

Case management: TCM case managers speak with you about your individual
needs and discuss whether you could benefit from case management.
Links to community resources: TCM teams connect you with local
community services and resources that may give you additional assistance.
VA care and benefits assistance: TCM case managers work with you toensure you maximize your VA health care benefits and services.
System navigation: TCM teams are ready to welcome and guide you into
the VA health care system.

For more information:www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/chemical-hazardous-materialsexposure

Access to VA health care: TCM teams help you fully register for VA healthcare and schedule your initial appointments.
Veteran advocacy: TCM teams support you to promote your whole healthand successful return home.

MODULE 4yDuring your military service,
you may have been exposed
to chemical, physical, or
environmental hazards.
This could include burn pits,
radiation, and asbestos
exposure. VA provides thelatest information on military
exposures and your health,including resources for medical
follow-up and benefits.

MODULE 1

What is Transition and Care Management (TCM)?

MODULE 2

TRANSITION CARE

What if I was
exposed to hazardous
materials during
my service?

MODULE 3

VA Health Care Services

INTRO

Maintaining Your Health

You may have access to cost-free care.

MODULE 5

Many Veterans have access to VA health care services at no cost. For example, if you
have qualifying service in a theater of combat, you may be eligible for 5 years of
cost-free medical care for any condition related to your service in theater.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

www.oefoif.va.gov/caremanagement.asp
www.oefoif.va.gov/map.asp

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Maintaining Your Health

Educate you about VA health care and services
Help you identify the VA health care facility closest to your home or mostappropriate for your individual needs
Communicate your needs to that VA facility
Connect you to the VA facility’s TCM teamy

The goal is that you leave the facility registered for VA health care and with ascheduled VA appointment.

yWhere can I learn more?

ywww.oefoif.va.gov/valiaisons.asp

y

y
y

y
y

y
y
y
y
y

y

y

y
y
y
y

INTRO
MODULE 1y

Ft. Belvoir, VA
Ft. Benning, GA
Ft. Bliss, TX
Ft. Bragg, NC
Ft. Campbell, KY
Ft. Carson, CO
Ft. Drum, NY
Ft. Eustis, VA
Ft. Gordon, GA
Ft. Hood, TX
Ft. Knox, KY

MODULE 2

VA Liaisons for Health Care are located on military installations and can:y

Ft. Lewis, WA
Ft. Polk, LA
Ft. Riley, KS
Ft. Sam Houston, TX
Ft. Stewart, GA
Naval Hospital Camp
Lejeune, NC

MODULE 3

What is the VA Health Care Liaison Program?

yNaval Hospital Camp
Pendleton, CAyNaval Medical Center
San Diego, CAyTripler Army Medical
Center, HIy

Walter Reed National
Military Medical Center, MD

MODULE 4

TRANSITION CARE (continued)

Installations or
locations withon-site VA Liaisonsfor Health Care:

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

VA Health Care Services

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VA Health Care Services
INTRO

VA DENTAL CARE
Does VA provide dental care as part of my
VA health coverage?

MODULE 1

VA provides dental care to Veterans who meet certain eligibility requirements.
Covered services range from simple to complex care, including cleaning and
X-rays, fillings, crowns, bridges, and more.
Eligibility isn’t the same as other VA medical benefits. It’s categorized into
different classes. It depends on a number of factors, like your:

y

y

y

If you have a service-connected dental disability, you may qualify for any
needed dental care.
If you have other service-connected disabilities, you may be eligible for arange of care, depending on your condition.
Other situations, such as homelessness or inpatient status, may qualify you
for certain one-time or specific treatments.

Where can I learn more?
www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care

MODULE 2

Where do I go for
VA dental care?
We provide dental care toqualified Veterans at more than
200 dental clinics across thecountry, including Alaska
and Puerto Rico.
To find a VA dental clinic
near you, use the VA
Facility Locator Tool at
www.va.gov/find-locations.

MODULE 3

Based on these factors, VA places you into a benefits class—and you get the
specific benefits assigned to that class. For example:

MODULE 4y

MODULE 5yMilitary service history
Current health
Living situation

KEEP IN MIND…
You can get a dental exam
if you did not receive one
before separating.

REMEMBER…

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

Keep your DD Form 214 in asafe and accessible location.

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VA Health Care Services

How do I apply?

INTRO

VA DENTAL CARE (continued)
Does VA offer dental insurance?

Covered services include diagnostic, preventive, surgical, emergency, andendodontic/restorative treatment. You pay a fixed monthly premium for coverage
and any copayments required, depending on the type of plan you select.

ONLINE
1. Visit the VADIP website atwww.va.gov/healthbenefits/
vadip.
2. Select the Delta Dental
or MetLife plan to learn
more and apply.

Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member

MODULE 2

Am I eligible?

y

MODULE 3

VADIP coverage is available to:y

MODULE 1

The VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) offers all eligible Veterans and family
members the opportunity to buy dental insurance through Delta Dental and
MetLife at a reduced cost. Participation is voluntary and does not affect youreligibility for VA dental services and treatment.

Veterans enrolled in VA health care
Family members of Veterans covered under the Civilian Health and Medical
Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA)

MODULE 4

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

www.va.gov/healthbenefits/vadip

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INTRO

CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM
VA provides benefits and services that can support family members or
caregivers in certain situations.

y
y
y
y

VA also provides financial support for service members and Veterans recoveringfrom severe injuries through the TSGLI program. Some service members andVeterans are eligible for both TSGLI and the Caregiver Support Program.

Am I eligible?
Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

Where can I learn more?

Family Member

There are different
eligibility requirements.

y

The payment amounts
may be different.

y

VA’s stipend is not intended
to replace career earnings.

yVA’s stipend doesn’t
create an employment
relationship between
VA and the caregiver.

DID YOU KNOW?
Eligible surviving spouses
or children of Veterans whodied or became permanently
and totally disabled in service
may be eligible for healthcoverage under CHAMPVA.
IF YOU HAVE ANYQUESTIONS, CALL:CAREGIVER SUPPORT LINE
1-855-260-3274

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

www.va.gov/health-care/family-caregiver-benefits

Veterany

MODULE 2y

MODULE 3y

A monthly stipend (under the Program of Comprehensive Assistancefor Family Caregivers)
Training for caregivers
Mental health services
Travel and lodging reimbursement
Access to health insurance, if not already covered under a health care plan
Access to education and information resources
Access to DoD commissary and other recreational facilities and activities
as of January 1, 2020. Eligible primary caregivers who are enrolled in the
Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers will receive
a letter indicating their eligibility.

MODULE 4y

VA’s caregiverstipend differs from
DoD’s stipend.

MODULE 5

The Caregiver Support Program offers:

MODULE 1

The Caregiver Support Program assists primary
caregivers of eligible service members and Veterans.

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The houses provide free lodging and are located within walking distanceof VA medical centers.

For more information:yFisher House
accommodations areprovided at no cost to
guests and located withinwalking distance of thetreatment facility.

yFisher Houses have up to
21 suites with private
bedrooms and baths.

y

A VA social worker andother VA staff can connect
you with Fisher House
services.

MODULE 4

To locate a
Fisher House:

MODULE 2

The Fisher House Program provides a network of comfortable homes forfamilies and caregivers of Veterans and active-duty service members as
they receive treatment at major military and VA medical facilities.

MODULE 3

A Fisher Home is “a home away from home” where yourfamilies can stay while you receive medical treatment at
a VA medical center.

MODULE 1

INTROFISHER HOUSE PROGRAM

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

www.socialwork.va.gov/
fisher_house_locations.asp

Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member
APPENDIX A

Am I eligible?

Eligibility may vary by location.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

www.socialwork.va.gov/fisher.asp

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INTROYour social, emotional, and mental wellness is asignificant part of your whole health.

www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/mental-healthThis website:yHelps you get started
with any social, emotional,
and mental health needs
that you may have—
whether you’re just startingyour research or you’reready to schedule your first
appointmentyOffers many informational
resources and presents
all your options for
obtaining services

124

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

VA takes this issue to heart. We can connect you with multiple benefits, services,and tools to help support your social, emotional, and mental health and well-being.

MODULE 1

OVERVIEW

For more information:

MODULE 2

VA Mental Health Care Services

Why is your mental well-being so important?

MODULE 6

It impacts how you think, feel, and act. It helps determine how you handle
stress, relate to others, and make choices. People struggling with mental healthissues often have a more difficult time managing their overall health andcommon every day stressors.

APPENDIX A

Transitioning out of the military may lead to increases in relationship issues,lack of employment or underemployment, and a sense of being without
purpose or being a burden. Those who served may be more likely to haveexperienced trauma or have chronic pain.
All of these concerns add to the complex nature of Veteran health care andincrease the risk of suicide for Veterans.

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You can be proud of taking steps to make yourself
as healthy as you can be—for both yourself and thosearound you.


Maintaining Your Health

VA Mental Health Care Services

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1INTROOVERVIEW (continued)

What mental health services does VA provide?
VA providers—including social workers and professionals in other disciplines—help you find resources during
times of need and apply interventions to help you with your mental health.

y

y

y

y
y

Perform mental health assessments and counseling to help you get through an immediate crisis
Provide high-risk screening and help you make plans for your discharge from a VA hospital once you
complete treatment
Help you find housing and employment, provide resources to support you if you are coping with illness
or injury, or give you resources to obtain foodProvide long-term case management and will advocate for you in situations that might be too complex
or uncomfortable for you to face by yourself
Share information about health care conditions or details about services and programs that you
might not know about
Teach you strategies to deal with stress and loss in a healthy manner
Provide several forms of therapy—individual, in a group setting, or even with your family

MODULE 6y

APPENDIX AyMODULE 5

For example, they:

Mental health services are available to everyone. VA offers 1 year of posttransition mental health care, even if you are not eligible for VA health care.

APPENDIX B

Where can I learn more?
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VA Vet Centers are community‐based centers located off-base acrossthe country that:yyy

All Vet Centers offer
non-traditional times toinclude evening andweekends to accommodate
busy schedules.

ySome communities have
Mobile Vet Centers thattravel to places where there
is no permanent local
Vet Center.

yMore than 70% of Vet
Center staff are Veterans,
the majority of whom
served in combat theaters.

INTRO

y

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4yProvide a broad range of free counseling, outreach, and referral services
to Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families
Offer individual, group, marriage, and family counseling in a safe andconfidential environment
Release no information to any person or agency without your writtenconsent, except in serious circumstances where there is an intent to harm
yourself or another
Assist with access to care by helping you and your family overcome any
barrier that you might experience including employment, housing,education, health care, and anything else that may aid in readjustment

All Vet Center services areavailable without time
limitation and at no cost.

MODULE 1

Vet Centers are another resource VA offers to support
the emotional, social, and mental health needs of you
and your family.

y

MODULE 2

VET CENTERSDID YOU KNOW?

MODULE 3

VA Mental Health Care Services

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Active Duty

National Guard

Reserve

VeteranFamily Member











You’re eligible if you have:
y
y
y

y

y

Served on active military duty in any combat theater or area of hostility, OR
Experienced a military sexual trauma, OR
Provided direct emergent medical care or mortuary services while serving
on active military duty to casualties of war, OR
Served as a member of an unmanned aerial vehicle crew that provided
direct support to operations in a combat zone or area of hostility, OR
Served in the Vietnam Era and accessed care at a Vet Center before
January 1, 2004y

You can access Vet Center
services regardless of yourcharacter of discharge.

y

You do not need a disability
rating or service connection
for injuries from either
VA or DoD.

For more information:yyy

The Vet Center Call Centeris staffed with combat
Veterans of all eras andfamily members of
combat Veterans.

y

Use the VA Facility Locator
Tool at www.va.gov/
find-locations to findthe nearest Vet Center.

Vet Centers also provide services to family members of eligible individuals when
it will aid in their readjustment.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

Families of deployed service members are also eligible to receive services
to help them cope with the deployment of their loved one. Additionally,
bereavement counseling for families who experience the death of an active-duty
service member is available. In reality, no one will be turned away at a Vet Center.

Visit: www.vetcenter.va.gov.
Call 1-877-927-8387(WAR-VETS) 24 hours a day,toll free, to talk about yourmilitary experiences, yourtransition home, or to getconnected to a Vet Center.

INTRO

You do not need tobe registered with VA
health care.

MODULE 1

Am I eligible?

y

MODULE 2

It doesn’t matter where you are in your journey. Whether you are an active-duty
service member, a member of the reserve components, or a Veteran—you are
eligible for Vet Center services if you meet the eligibility criteria.

To use Vet Center services:

MODULE 3

VET CENTERS (continued)

KEEP IN MIND…

MODULE 4

VA Mental Health Care Services

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VA Mental Health Care Services
INTRO

MAINTAINING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
As with your physical health, self-care plays a big role in maintaining yourmental health. It is important to be able to recognize when you need help.

y
y
y
y
y
y

y

MODULE 2yChanges in sleep, appetite, weight, or sex life
Headaches or other physical pain
Muscle tension and weakness
Decreased energy, motivation, or interest
Problems with attention, concentration, or memory
Irritability, anger, or having a short temper
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, or hopelessness
Unhealthy behaviors (misusing drugs, alcohol, food, or sex; gambling or spending too much money
to cope with stress or emotions; etc.)
Problems functioning at home, work, or school

MODULE 3y

MODULE 1

Recognizing the early signs of a social, emotional, or mental health condition allows you to take steps toprevent symptoms from developing into larger concerns. In addition to commonly recognized symptoms,
like feeling very sad or nervous, other indicators and signs may include:

What are some things I can do on my own?

y

y

y

y

y

MODULE 4

Manage stress. Try to change situations causing you stress. Learn relaxation methods to cope with stress.
These could include deep breathing, meditation, and exercise.
Strive for balance. Find a healthy balance between work and play, activity and rest. Make time
for things you enjoy.
Take care of your physical health. Your physical health can affect your mental health. Exercise regularly,
eat healthy meals, and get enough sleep. Don’t abuse drugs or alcohol.
Connect with others. We are social creatures. We need positive connections with other people.
Make a lunch date, join a group, and say hi to strangers.
Find purpose and meaning. Figure out what is important to you in life and focus on that. This could
be your work, your family, volunteering, caregiving, or something else. Spend your time doing what feels
meaningful to you.
Stay positive. Focus on the good things in your life. Forgive yourself for making mistakes and forgive
others. Spend time with healthy, positive people.

APPENDIX B

yThink before you act. Emotions can be powerful. Give yourself time to think and be calm before you
say or do something you might regret.

MODULE 5y

Express your feelings in appropriate ways. Let people close to you know when something is botheringyou. Keeping feelings of sadness or anger inside adds to stress. It can cause problems in your relationships
and at work or school.

MODULE 6y

Be aware of your emotions and reactions. Notice what in your life makes you sad, frustrated, or angry.
Try to address or change those things.

APPENDIX A

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y
y
y
y
y

Combat exposure
Sexual or physical abuse/assault
Terrorist attack
Motor vehicle accident
Natural disaster such as a fire, tornado, hurricane, flood, or earthquake

Whether you just returned from deployment or have been home for 40 years,
it’s never too late to get help for PTSD. Getting counseling or treatment can help
you manage your symptoms and keep them from getting worse.
Our National Center for PTSD is the world leader in PTSD research, education,and treatment.

VA is committed to a harassment-free health careenvironment for everyone and will not tolerateharassment of any kind.
You earned the right to receive VA health care and VA staff are committed tocreating a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for all Veterans. Our healthcare system will not tolerate harassment. All Veterans should expect to receive
health care in environments that attend to their dignity, safety, and privacy.

Start to feel better after a
few weeks or months, butsometimes PTSD symptoms
don’t surface until many
months or years later

Can I get disability
compensation or otherbenefits for PTSD?
Find out if you can get
PTSD disability benefits at
www.va.gov/disability/
eligibility/ptsd/#can-i-getdisability-benefits-.

DID YOU KNOW?
y

66% of women in the
military report theyexperienced sexual assault
or sexual harassment.

y

42% of women and 17%of men report witnessing
a fellow service member
be sexually harassed
or assaulted.

MODULE 6

Whether unwanted behavior involves a person’s sexual orientation, gender
identity or expression, race, or ethnicity, it is unacceptable. Harassment is
disruptive and impacts access to care.

INTRO

y

MODULE 1

Have some stress-related
reactions after a traumatic
event, but not everyone
develops PTSD

MODULE 2

PTSD is a mental health condition that some people develop after experiencing
a life-threatening or traumatic event. A traumatic event is something that you
see or hear about or that happens to you that is overwhelming and hard to copewith or move past. Some examples may include:y

MODULE 3

VA has resources to help you cope with health issues
you may experience after a traumatic event, including
posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Most people…

MODULE 4

MAINTAINING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH (continued)

DID YOU KNOW?

MODULE 5

VA Mental Health Care Services

Be part of the solution and treat others with dignity and respect! If you are a
victim of harassment, report it to the Patient Advocate or VA Police.

APPENDIX A

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/mental-health/ptsd
www.va.gov/health/patientadvocate

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y

y

y

MST can affect a person’s
physical and mental
health—even many
years later.

y

VA provides free,
confidential counselingand treatment to female
and male Veterans for bothmental and physical healthproblems linked to MST.

y

Veterans may apply fordisability compensationfrom physical or
psychological disabilities
related to sexual or othertrauma, such as PTSD.

Am I eligible for treatment related to MST?
Eligibility for MST-related health care is independent of other VA benefits.
y
y

y

y

You do not need to have a VA disability rating to receive these services.
You may be able to receive services even if you are not eligible for otherforms of VA health care.
There are no length-of-service or income requirements to receive
MST-related care.
Veterans do not need to have reported the incident(s) when they happenedor have other documentation that they occurred.

For more information:y

Talk to the MST
coordinator at yournearest VA regional office.

yVisit www.va.gov/healthcare/health-needsconditions/military-sexualtrauma.

yCall 1-800-827-1000.

How can I collect evidence related to MST?
VA can help you collect evidence to support your disability compensation
claims. Many VA regional offices have MST specialists who can help with
MST-related claims. All VA regional offices also have Women Veterans
Coordinators who can assist male and female Veterans filing MST claims.

INTRO

y

MODULE 1

Any sexual activity you were unwillingly involved in and where you may
have been pressured into sexual activities. For example:|
Threats of negative consequences for refusing to be sexually cooperative|
Implied faster promotions or better treatment in exchange for sex
Unwanted sexual touching or grabbing; threatening, offensive remarks about
your body or sexual activities; and threatening or unwelcome sexual advances
Occurrences when you may have been unable to consent to sexual activities(for example, when you were intoxicated)
Any time when you may have been physically forced into sexual activities

All Veterans seen at VA
facilities are asked about
experiences of sexual trauma.

MODULE 2yy

MODULE 3

Military sexual trauma (MST) refers to sexual assault or repeated, threatening
sexual harassment that happened while you were in the military. MST includes:

Both women and men
can experience MST
during their service.

MODULE 4

Military Sexual Traumay

MODULE 5

MAINTAINING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH (continued)

DID YOU KNOW?

MODULE 6

VA Mental Health Care Services

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

VBA knows that often it can be difficult for Veterans to locate evidence,
particularly if they file a claim many years after their MST experience. Becauseof this, VA encourages service members to hold onto any materials that mightlater serve as evidence, such as copies of reports to authorities, copies oftreatment records, or anything documenting your difficulties while you wereon active duty. For example, if you told a friend or family member about yourexperiences of MST, consider asking him or her to write a brief note stating this,or at least keep a list of people you told. Even if you do not want to file a claim
now, this evidence will be useful if you do later.

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The Military Crisis Line or Veterans Crisis Line (Figure 28) connects you and yourfamilies to qualified, caring, and supportive VA representatives who havespecial training and experience to help Veterans of all ages and circumstances.

yyyCall 911.
Go directly to the nearest
emergency room.
Go directly to the nearest
VA medical center.

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

The crisis line provides information on suicide awareness and prevention andcan refer you to the Suicide Prevention Coordinator closest to where you live.
The crisis line can connect you with many national resources, regardless of yourenrollment status in VA health care.

If you are in crisis,
you can also:

INTRO

There may be times when you want to talk to someone
right now. We offer support anytime, day or night.

Every day, more than 400 VA
Suicide Prevention Coordinatorsand their teams, located at every
VA medical center, connect
Veterans to care.

MODULE 1

MAINTAINING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH (continued)

DID YOU KNOW?

MODULE 2

VA Mental Health Care Services

Figure 28: Veterans Crisis LineYou can contact crisis line counselors 24 hours a day,
7 days a week, 365 days a year.
yyCall 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.
Text 838255.
Chat online at www.veteranscrisisline.net.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX AyMODULE 6

To connect with the crisis line:

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VA provides or partners with other agencies to provide a wide range of programs
and services to support your mental, social, and emotional health (Table 19).
Program/Service

Description

Make the Connection

Hundreds of Veterans share their stories
of strength and resilience about mental
health—including the challenges they faced,
the support they received, and the ways
their lives improved because they sought
help. Veterans provide information,
resources, and solutions to handle a variety
of issues that may impact your life, such as:yyyy

VA Substance Abuse Programs
myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portalweb/substance-abuse-screeningy

PTSD Coach:mobile.va.gov/app/
ptsd-coach

INTRO
MODULE 4This web-based public awareness campaign
aims to help recognize PTSD and motivate
those affected to seek evidence-based care.
It features personal stories of Veterans andis designed to improve mental healthtreatment engagement among people
experiencing PTSD.

MODULE 5

ptsd.va.gov/apps/aboutface

Mindfulness Coach:mobile.va.gov/app/
mindfulness-coach

These VA programs help those struggling
with addiction. The My HealtheVet portal has
an anonymous, confidential screening toolthat returns immediate results to help you
determine if you need support. It also allows
you to contact:
y
y

y
y

MODULE 6

AboutFace

Preparing for deployment
Transitioning from the military
Maintaining healthy relationships
Managing PTSDyYour existing VA health care provider
The Transition and Care Management
program manager at your local VA
medical center

APPENDIX A

maketheconnection.net

Visit the VA app store atmobile.va.gov/appstore andcheck out apps like:

MODULE 1

Are there other programs and services that
I should consider?

More than 40 VA
mobile apps areavailable at the VA
mobile app store.

MODULE 2

ADDITIONAL MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCESDID YOU KNOW?

MODULE 3

VA Mental Health Care Services

Your local Vet Center
VA’s general information hotline

APPENDIX B

Table 19: Additonal Mental Health Resources

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VA Mental Health Care Services
Description

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)

IPV describes physical, sexual, or psychological harm by a current or former partneror spouse. This type of violence can occur among heterosexual or same-sex
couples and does not require sexual intimacy. If you have experienced IPV or haveother safety concerns, you can talk to:yyy

www.objectivezero.org
RallyPoint
www.rallypoint.com

CaringBridge
www.caringbridge.org
Chaplain Services

Center for Faith-Based andNeighborhood Partnerships

MODULE 3

Objective Zero

This foundation uses technology to enhance social connections and improveaccess to mental health resources through videoconferencing, voice calls, andtext messaging.

MODULE 4

www.veteranscrisisline.net/
support/be-there

This program gives you an opportunity to speak to a fellow Veteran who
understands your experiences. The BeThere Peer Assistance Program, inpartnership with Military OneSource, offers support to service members(including members of the reserve components), their families, andtransitioning Veterans up to 365 days after separation or retirement. Throughthis program, you can also talk privately with peer coaches who may be
Veterans, service members, or military spouses.

RallyPoint is a social networking platform for service members, Veterans,
families, caregivers, and more where you can discuss career opportunities andresources, participate in community conversations, and increase social
connections.
This website helps family and friends communicate with loved ones during
their health journey by offering online support at no cost.

MODULE 5

BeThere Program

The IPV coordinator at your VA medical center
A VA social worker
Any of your existing VA health care providers
The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)

MODULE 2yThese services provide:yFaith-based counseling for mental health, grief and loss, andconflict resolutionyAssistance for those in crisis and those who have been affectedby a suicideyTraining for clergy in suicide prevention

MODULE 6

www.thehotline.org

These organizations provide opportunities for faith-based worship by:yDeveloping relationships with faith-based, nonprofit, and community andneighborhood organizationsyWorking with these organizations as partners to serve Veterans, theirfamilies, caregivers, survivors, and other loved ones

APPENDIX A

www.socialwork.va.gov/ipv

MODULE 1

Program/Service

INTRO

ADDITIONAL MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES (continued)

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APPENDIX B

Table 19 (continued): Additonal Mental Health Resources

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Health Care Tools

MODULE 1INTRO

MY HealtHeVetyy

As a service member,you can register for a
Basic account at any time.

yAs a Veteran, you may
create an Advanced
account that allows you toview additional information.

y

As a Veteran, you may alsochoose to upgrade to a
Premium account at nocost, but you must meet therequirements and complete
the necessary documents.

In addition to My HealtheVet,
VA has a mobile app to help
you manage your health care.
You can find it in the app store
for whichever device you use.

For more information:www.myhealth.va.gov

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

Figure 29: My HealtheVet

MODULE 3yManaging your prescriptions and doctor appointments
Communicating with your VA health care teamAccessing your electronic health records

MODULE 4yFeatures vary dependingon which type of account
you have:

MODULE 5

It is a free, proactive, and interactive tool that empowers you to become an
informed partner in your health care by:Level of Access

MODULE 6

My HealtheVet (Figure 29) is VA’s award-winning health website that offers
Veterans, active-duty service members, dependents, and caregivers access to
VA health care information and services.

MODULE 2

What tools can I use to help me manage my health care?

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An Advanced account is for those who register as Veterans or VA patients. It
allows you to view some information in your VA and DoD records, refill and track
your prescriptions, and view your allergies and their adverse reactions.
A Premium account is also for Veterans or VA patients. It gives you the highest
level of access to My HealtheVet features, like admissions and discharge
summaries, past and future appointments, lab results and medication history,
secure messaging with your health care team, and more.

How do I register for a My HealtheVet account?
To register for an account:
Step 1: Go to www.myhealth.va.gov.
Step 2: Select the Register button.
Step 3: Complete the required fields.

yYou have the option to
upgrade to a Premium
account.

A Premium account gives youaccess to the same features as a
Basic or Advanced account, plus:yAdmissions and discharge
summariesy

Past and futureappointmentsyLab results andmedication historyy

Secure messaging withyour health care teamy

DoD military service
information

INTRO

Your profile links to VA
and DoD records and the
Authorize VA to Release
Electronic Copies of Your
VA Record page appears
in your account.

MODULE 1

A Basic account is for anyone who registers for a My HealtheVet account. It
limits your access to features that require personal data, such as journals andother tools to track your health measures.

y

MODULE 2

My HealtheVet offers three account types:
Basic, Advanced, and Premium.

Once you upgrade to an
Advanced account:

MODULE 3

MY HealtHeVet (continued)

DID YOU KNOW?

MODULE 4

Health Care Tools

Step 4: Select the Create Your Account button.

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/my-healthevet-offers-three-account-types

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Review Table 20 for the various ways you can upgrade to a Premium account.
1. From the My HealtheVet login page, sign in to youradvanced My HealtheVet account using a Sign-in Partner(DS Logon Premium account and ID.me).

ONLINE

2. Select the Upgrade Now button.
3. Check the certification box to verify you are the ownerof the My HealtheVet account.
4. Select Continue.
5. Check the Accept My HealtheVet Terms & Conditions box.
6. Select Continue.
7. Your My HealtheVet advanced account will upgrade to a
Premium account.

INTRO

TIP
MODULE 1

How do I upgrade to a Premium My HealtheVet account?

You must first have a Basicaccount before you are eligible
for a Premium account.

If you deliver the form inperson, make sure you
bring a governmentissued photo ID (such asa Veteran Identification
Card or valid driver’s
license) to prove youridentity.

MODULE 2

MY HealtHeVet (continued)

KEEP IN MIND…

MODULE 3

Health Care Tools

You can upgrade your My HealtheVet Advanced accountin person (face-to-face and videoconference) at a local
VA facility.

MODULE 4

IN PERSON
Table 20: How to Upgrade to a Premium My HealtheVet Account

MODULE 5

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/web/myhealthevet/upgrading-yourmy-healthevet-account-through-in-person-or-online-authentication

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Health Care Tools
INTRO

VETERANS HEALTH INFORMATION EXCHANGE
Veteran Health Information Sharing Options

You can opt out as follows:yyVia Mail:|
Download and print the VA Form 10-10164, Opt-Out of Sharing Protected
Health Information Through Health Information Exchanges.
|
Mail it to your local VA medical center (VAMC), attention Releaseof Information Office.
In Person:|
Visit the Release of Information (ROI) Office at your local VAMC.
|
Ask for and complete VA Form 10-10164.
|
Give the form to a member of the ROI Office staff.

The video “What you needto know about VA Health
Information Sharing” explains
the benefits of VA healthinformation sharing for carecoordination and continuityof care and Veterans’ sharing
preferences.
To watch the video, visit:www.youtube.com/
watch?v=m38wZTCmWks

MODULE 1
MODULE 2

What you need toknow about VA Health
Information Sharing

MODULE 3

Want to opt out of sharing your electronic
health information?

To access a listing of VA
Exchange Partners by locations
and for information on how toparticipate, visit:www.va.gov/vhie/vhie_
participating_partners.asp

MODULE 4

VA believes that community providers can make more informed treatment
decisions, which drive better health outcomes, when they have a complete viewof your medical history. VA will share records using the Veterans Health
Information Exchange (VHIE) tool. You will be notified when this automatic
information sharing starts.

VA Exchange Partners

MODULE 5With increased access to community providers through the VA MISSION Act
of 2018, one of the requirements for continued quality care is to automaticallyprovide health information to community providers involved in a Veteran’s care.
This prevents needed paper releases and hand carrying medical records to yourdifferent providers.

Want to share your electronic health information
after you opted out?

APPENDIX AyVia Mail:|
Download and print the VA Form 10-10163, Request for and Permission
to Participate in Sharing Protected Health Information through Health
Information Exchanges.
|
Mail it to your local VAMC, attention Release of Information Office.
In Person:|
Visit the ROI Office at your local VAMC.
|
Ask for and complete VA Form 10-10163.
|
Give the form to a member of the ROI Office staff.

APPENDIX By

MODULE 6

If you opt out, then change your mind, you can opt back in as follows:

Where can I learn more?
www.va.gov/vhie

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Making Informed Decisions
INTRO

VA HEALTH CARE PORTAL
VA’s main source of information about health benefits is the Health Care Portal (Figure 30). From this site, you can:

y
y
y
y

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2y

Get information on VA health benefits and services available to you
Locate medical facilities
Apply for VA health care
Manage your health care
Learn about VA telehealth services
Learn how to contact VA with questions related to VA health care and benefits

MODULE 1y

MODULE 6

Figure 30: VA Health Care Portal

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

www.va.gov/health-care

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Maintaining Your Health

When you apply for VA health care, you’ll be assigned to one of eight priority
groups, which determine:yy

How soon VA can sign you up for health care benefits
Whether you have to make copays to receive careYour priority group is based on:
y
y
y
y
y

Your military service history
Your disability ratingYour income level
Whether or not you qualify for Medicaid
Other benefits you may be receiving, like pension benefits

KEEP IN MIND…
Some Veterans are eligible forboth TRICARE and VA benefits;
this is called dual eligibility.

Veterans with VA-rated service-connected disabilities
that are 50% or more disablingy

Veterans who VA determines to be unemployable due
to service-connected conditions

PriorityGroup 2y

Veterans with VA-rated service-connected disabilities
that are 30% or 40% disabling

PriorityGroup 3y

Veterans who are former prisoners of war
Veterans awarded a Purple Heart medal
Veterans whose discharge was for a disability that wasincurred or aggravated in the line of dutyyyPriorityGroup 4y

Veterans with VA-rated service-connected disabilities
that are 10% or 20% disablingy

Veterans awarded special eligibility classification under
Title 38, U.S.C., § 1151, “benefits for individuals disabledby treatment or vocational rehabilitation”

yVeterans awarded the Medal of Honory

Veterans who receive Aid and Attendance or Houseboundallowance from VA

yVeterans who VA determines to be catastrophically disabled

MODULE 5y

MODULE 6

PriorityGroup 1APPENDIX A

Who is Included

MODULE 4

Table 21 describes the VA health care priority groups.
Priority GroupINTRO

If VA grants you service
connection for any injury orillness, even those rated at 0%,
you are eligible for free VA
medical treatment, including
required medication andsupplies for those granted
conditions.

MODULE 1

VA health care eligibility is based on priority groups
determined by several factors.

MODULE 2

ELIGIBILITY FOR VA HEALTH CARE

Regardless of yourpriority group or
eligibility:

MODULE 3

Making Informed Decisions

APPENDIX B

Table 21: VA Health Care Eligibility Priority Groups

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Veterans receiving VA pension benefits
Veterans eligible for Medicaid programs

PriorityGroup 6yyyyProject 112/SHAD (Shipboard Hazard and Defense) participants
Veterans who served in the Republic of Vietnam between
January 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975yVeterans of the Persian Gulf War who served between
August 2, 1990, and November 11, 1998yVeterans who served on active duty at Camp Lejeune,
North Carolina for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953,and December 31, 1987yCurrently enrolled Veterans and new enrollees who served ina theater of combat operations after November 11, 1998, andthose who were discharged from active duty on or afterJanuary 28, 2003, are eligible for the enhanced benefits for
5 years post discharge

PriorityGroup 7y

Veterans with gross household income below thegeographically-adjusted income limits for their resident
location and who agree to pay copays

PriorityGroup 8y

Veterans with gross household income above VA andgeographically-adjusted income limits for their resident
location and who agree to pay copays

Table 21 (continued): VA Health Care Eligibility Priority Groups

Eligibility as it relates to members of the reserve components:yyy

VA health care can help
you meet all your medical
needs—you don’t have tohave a service-connectedcondition.

y

If you qualify, your VHIC
may get you access to thecommissary, exchange, andother morale, welfare, andrecreation facilities in yourcommunity.

Compensable 0% service-connected Veterans
Veterans exposed to ionizing radiation during atmospherictesting or during the occupation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

You must have been called to active duty (other than for training only) by
a federal order and completed the full period for which you were called orordered to active duty or served on active duty in a theater of combat
operations after November 11, 1998, and discharged under other thandishonorable conditions.
Minimum duty requirements: Veterans who enlisted after September 7, 1980,
or who entered active duty after October 16, 1981, must have served 24
continuous months or the full period for which they were called to active
duty in order to be eligible.
|
This minimum duty requirement may not apply to Veterans discharged forhardship, early out, or a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty.

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You need to know yourother options to makean informed decision.
For example, you may be
eligible for DoD’s TRICARE
coverage. If enrolling in
TRICARE, you may need toenroll by a certain deadline tomaintain continuous coverageafter separation or retirement.

REMEMBER…
For establishing eligibility basedon Title 32 service, a disability
must be shown to have been
incurred or aggravated duringthat service.

MODULE 6y

Unlike private coverageor other insurance options,
there are no monthly
premiums with VA healthcare. You may haveto pay a copay, but that’s it.

INTRO

y

y

MODULE 1

Nonservice-connected Veterans and non-compensable
service-connected Veterans rated 0% disabled with annual
income below both VA income limits and geographicallyadjusted income limits (based on your resident ZIP code)

MODULE 2y

MODULE 3

PriorityGroup 5

MODULE 4

Who is Included

You may have a job lined upthat provides healthinsurance for you, but what if
the job falls through?

MODULE 5

Priority Group

y

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

APPENDIX AELIGIBILITY FOR VA HEALTH CARE (continued)

Why should I apply
for VA health care?

APPENDIX B

Making Informed Decisions
Maintaining Your Health

You are not on your own. There are resources to help you learn about VA healthcare benefits and how to register.
Concierge for Care (C4C) can help you build a relationship with VA early on.
This will make your transition from active duty health care to Veteran healthcare easier than ever before.
C4C or other similar VA outreach programs may contact you regarding
registration for health care (Figure 31). They can:yyAnswer any questions you have
Help you apply for VA health care
Make your first VA health care appointment

You can update your contact
information on VA.gov.

A representative will contact you byphone to answer your questions and,if you’re interested, help you register
for VA health care and make your first
VA medical appointment.
Preparing for Separation

Because your military
telephone number and email
address don’t follow you after
separation, it is important thatyou give VA your personal
telephone number andemail address.

After Separation

VA will not share yourinformation with otherbusinesses and makes every
effort to ensure we contact you
only regarding your important
VA benefits and services.
IF YOU HAVE ANYQUESTIONS, CALL:

INTRO
MODULE 4y

C4C only works if VA has yourcorrect contact information.

MODULE 1

If you aren’t ready to make a decision today, there arevarious resources available to support you.

The goal is for you to have theinformation you need to makeinformed decisions about
your post-separation healthcare options.

MODULE 2

OUTREACH PROGRAMSREMEMBER…

MODULE 3

Making Informed Decisions

HEALTH CARE BENEFIT
1-877-222-VETS (8387)

MODULE 5

A registration representative
will contact you to provide
information about VA healthcare benefits and answer
your questions.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

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Making Informed Decisions

Whatever challenge you face, qualified VA representatives will be reaching out
to help you make the most of your transition. Yes, VA is calling—take the call!

VA will attempt to contact you
three times around 90, 180,
and 365 days post-separation.
Make sure your contact
information is up to date at
VA.gov and eBenefits.
In addition to three phone
calls, you’ll receive reminder
emails about upcoming calls,
including links to resources.

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

Save 1-800-827-0611 as thecontact for VA Solid Start
on your phone now, andwhen you see VA calling—take the call!

MODULE 1

Our goal is to provide consistent, caring contact between service members and
VA to guide you through understanding and using the benefits and resources
available to you—valuable building blocks for your civilian life. In some cases,
such as mental health support, you are eligible regardless of your discharge
status, service history, or eligibility for VA health care.

MODULE 2

Through a new program called VA Solid Start, initiated by an Executive
Order signed by the president, VA is calling every newly separated service
member three times during the first year of separation.

As part of your welcome, VA
wants to inform you about
what to expect during thiscritical time and help you
build a solid start to yourcivilian life.

MODULE 3

Year one as a civilian presents a lot of change, but thestress of change is not a weight you have to carry alone.

INTRO

OUTREACH PROGRAMS (CONTINUED)

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/solid-start.asp

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Making Informed Decisions
INTRO

VA HEALTH BENEFITS EXPLORER
The VA Health Benefits Explorer is a great tool that can:yyGive you an idea of what you may be eligible for based on your service
Help you make the decision to choose VA

MODULE 1

While it’s not an official eligibility determination, it only takes a few minutes to complete, and it’s a great way
to get started. Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Navigate to www.va.gov/healthbenefits/apps/explorer.
Step 2: Answer a short questionnaire.

MODULE 2

Step 3: Review your results.
Step 4: Apply for VA health care at www.va.gov to receive your official determination of yourenrollment benefits.

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

Refer to Figure 32.

APPENDIX A

Figure 32: VA Health Benefits Explorer

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

www.va.gov/healthbenefits/apps/explorer

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Maintaining Your HealthAccessing VA Health CareHow do I apply?

INTRO

APPLYING FOR VA HEALTH CARE
Am I eligible?








Family Member

ONLINE
Apply at www.va.gov.

MODULE 1

Veteran

To be eligible for VA health care, you must meet all of the following requirements:

y
y
y
y
y

y
y
y

y
y

y
y

Former prisoners of war
Purple Heart or Medal of Honor recipients
VA-awarded service-connected disability of 10% or more
VA pension recipients
Discharged from the military because of a disability (not pre-existing),
early out, or hardship
Served in a theater of operations for 5 years post discharge
Served in the Republic of Vietnam from January 9, 1962, to May 7, 1975
Served on U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships associated with military
service in Vietnam
Served in the Persian Gulf from August 2, 1990, to November 11, 1998
Stationed or resided at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina for 30 days or more
between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987
Found by VA to be catastrophically disabled
Previous years’ household income is below VA’s national income orgeographical-adjusted thresholds

When you apply for VA health care online, keep a few things in mind:
y
y

y

y

MODULE 3

Enhanced eligibility may be offered to the following Veterans:

Complete VA Form 10-10EZ,
Application for Health Benefits,
and drop it off at your local
VA medical center.

BY MAIL
Mail the completed VA
Form 10-10EZ, Applicationfor Health Benefits, to:Health Eligibility Center
2957 Clairmont Road, Suite 200
Atlanta, GA 30329-1647

BY PHONEMODULE 6

Current and former members of the reserve components who were called toactive duty may be eligible for VA health benefits as well. VA determines youreligibility once you apply for health care.

IN PERSON

Call 1-877-222-VETS.

You must be within 1 year before your separation date.
Before starting the health care application, sign in to VA.gov using your DS
Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.me account login information.
|
You can choose to start your application without signing in, but thesystem does not save your progress unless you are signed in.
|
You can sign in later by selecting Sign in at the top of any page.
If you need to finish the application later, sign in to VA.gov and complete
steps 1–4 on the next page to go to the application already in progress.
You have 60 days from the date you start or update the application to submit it.
After 60 days, your information won’t be saved, and you will need to start over.

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APPENDIX A

yEnlisted after September 7, 1980, or entered active duty after October 16, 1981
Must have served 24 continuous months or the full period for which youwere called to active duty (not applicable to all Veterans)

APPENDIX By

MODULE 2

Reserve

MODULE 4

National Guard

MODULE 5

Active Duty

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


Maintaining Your Health

Step 1: Navigate to www.va.gov.

y

Are you getting enoughsleep at night to refresh
your body and mind?

y

Are you eating foods
and beverages that nourish
and fuel you?

y

Are you surrounding
yourself with people youlove and care about?

Step 2: Select Apply now for VA health care from the Health Care sectionin the center of the page.
Step 3: This will bring you to the Apply for health care benefits page.
Step 4: Select the Sign in to Start Your Application button or selectStart your application without signing in below it. You can also
sign in later by selecting Sign in at the top of any page and use either
your DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.me account login information.
Step 5: Complete the screens as follows.
y
y
y
y
y
y

Section 1: Veteran Information (five parts)
Section 2: Military Service Information (two parts)
Section 3: VA Benefits Information (one part)
Section 4: Household Information (four parts)
Section 5: Insurance Information (four parts)
Section 6: Review Application|
Review each section by selecting the plus (+) sign to view thedetails. Make changes to information by selecting the Edit button.

Use the results to start a
conversation with yourprovider at your first
appointment.
You can access the Personal
Health Inventory at www.va.gov/
wholehealth/phi.asp.

INTRO
MODULE 1

Note that there is a progress bar at the top of the page. This bar shows how
far along you are in the application.

MODULE 2

The more information you can give VA, the better
VA can accommodate your needs.

MODULE 3

To apply online, complete the six sections of the application. Each section may
contain several screens. Some information is required, and some is optional.

Consider taking the MyStory:
Personal Health Inventory.
This self-assessment tool takes
about 30 minutes to complete
and helps you explore areas ofyour life as it relates to yourhealth. It asks things like:

MODULE 4

APPLYING FOR VA HEALTH CARE (continued)

Preparing for YourFirst Appointment

MODULE 5

Accessing VA Health Care

Step 6: Check the box that acknowledges you have read and accept
the privacy policy.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

Step 7: Select the Submit Application button to send your application
for approval.

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INTRO

Activity Worksheet:
Update Your Personal Checklist
Go back to Appendix B and update your checklist based on what you just learned regarding accessing andapplying for VA health care.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

For this portion, look at Section 12 of the checklist.

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MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

Connecting withYour Community

APPENDIX B

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

INTRO






MODULE 6

IN THIS MODULE…

In this course, you’ve learned about the many benefits, tools, and resources
available as you transition to civilian life. But you may be wondering, what
ongoing support is available after you transition?

Veterans Service
Organizationsy

Veteran Peer Groups
Community Veterans
Engagement BoardsyHow will I connect with my community?
MODULE 4
Finding a
Place to Livey

Personal Resources
For Ongoing SupportyOnline Resources

MODULE 3

VA Resources:

At this final step in your journey (Figure 33), you might be asking:

MODULE 5
Maintaining
Your Health

MODULE 4

REMEMBER…

MODULE 3
Getting
Career Ready

MODULE 1
NavigatingYour JourneyyComplete the Transition
Assistance Curriculum
Participant Assessment at
www.dodsurveys.mil/tgpsp
when instructed byyour facilitator.

MODULE 5y

Recall key community resources that support your access to VA benefits.
Identify ways to connect and engage with your community.

MODULE 2
Supporting
Yourself andYour Family

Figure 33: Your Transition Journey

MODULE 6yCommunity Support
for Veterans:

MODULE 2

Upon completion of Module 6, you will be able to:

MODULE 6
Connecting withYour CommunityyAddress your social, emotional, and mental health
Establish social and community connections
Help you and your family apply for benefits

APPENDIX ByAPPENDIX A

VA can help you identify and connect with resources that:y

MODULE 1

Introduction

INTRO

Connecting withYour Community

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Connecting with Your Community

It is important to build a network in your community—
including a social network, a professional network,and a network of Veteran peers.

y

y

y
y
y
y
y
y

Housing
Education and training
Employment
HealthRecreation
SocialFinancial
Benefits
Mentoring

MODULE 1y

MODULE 2

DID YOU KNOW?
Volunteering offersa great way to stayengaged in yourcommunity andmaintain positive
mental health.
VA Voluntary Services provide
opportunities to volunteer
throughout the country,
mainly in medical facilities.
To learn more, visit:www.volunteer.va.gov.

y

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX Ay

A network of social connections and friends will help support
your mental health.
A large professional network makes you more visible to employers andcan help grow your career. In-person and online connections throughtools like LinkedIn are important. If you are looking for work, you’ll want
to expand your network to provide you with exposure to available jobs.
A network of fellow Veterans can help you stay connected to the militarycommunity and provide opportunities to continue serving out of uniform.

MODULE 6y

MODULE 5

You can begin to establish your community connections by building yourlocal and professional network.

MODULE 3

ESTABLISHING YOUR PERSONAL NETWORKINTRO

Key areas ofengagement in thecommunity include:

MODULE 4

Integrating into Your
Community

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y

y

y

y

INTRO
MODULE 1

This limited POA allows
the VSO to represent
you only for VA-related
claim issues.
Find the form at
www.vba.va.gov/pubs/
forms/vba-21-22-are.pdf.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX AyAMVETS makes a long-term economic impact by providing assistance,
jobs, and services to Veterans and their communities. To learn more, visit
amvets.org.
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States fosters camaraderie
among Veterans of overseas conflicts; serves Veterans, the military,and communities; and advocates for all Veterans. To learn more, visit
www.vfw.org.
The American Legion mentors youth and sponsors wholesome programsin communities, advocates for patriotism and honor, promotes strong
national security, and provides continued devotion to service members
and Veterans. To learn more, visit www.legion.org.
Vietnam Veterans of America promotes and supports all issues important
to Vietnam Veterans, creating a new identity for this generation of Veteransand changing public perception of Vietnam Veterans. To learn more, visit
vva.org.
Disabled American Veterans ensures that Veterans and their families
can access all available benefits, fights for the interests of America’s injured
heroes, and educates the public about the sacrifices and needs of Veteranstransitioning back to civilian life. To learn more, visit www.dav.org.
Paralyzed Veterans of America serves paralyzed Veterans by advocatingfor quality health care, research and education, benefits available, and civilrights and oppportunities. To learn more, visit www.pva.org.

MODULE 2y

MODULE 3

VSOs (Figure 34), together with state, county, and local Veterans Service
Representatives, help Veterans, their families, and survivors understand andnavigate benefits programs. VSOs can also help you file claims for health careeligibility, VA Home Loan Guaranty, and other Veterans benefits, including thoseoffered by the state. Chartered VSOs offer these services for free.

If you want to appointa recognized VSO as
your representative,
the VSO organization
or VA can provide youwith VA Form 21‐22,
Appointment of VeteransService Organizationas Claimant’sRepresentative, whichacts as a limited powerof attorney (POA).

MODULE 4

Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) are organizations
that serve the needs of Veterans, their families,
and survivors.

MODULE 5

VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

TIPMODULE 6

Community Support for Veterans

Figure 34: Veterans Service Organizations

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

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PRINT
Connecting with Your Community

INTRO

Activity Worksheet:
Find Your Local VSO
There are a variety of ways to find a VSO or a representative near you who can help prepare and submit yourVA claims. Take some time now to search for VSOs in your local area.

MODULE 1

To complete this activity, search the VA.gov site to find a VSO near you.
Step 1: Visit www.va.gov.
Step 2: Scroll to the bottom of the page in the blue section under More VA resources and select theVeterans Service Organizations link.

MODULE 2

Step 3: Select the Office of General Counsel (OGC) Search for Accredited Attorneys, Claims Agents, or
Veterans Service Organizations (VSO) Representatives link.
Step 4: In the Search Accredited Attorneys, Claims Agents, or Veterans Service Organizations (VSO)
Representatives section select the VSO Representative radio button.
Step 5: Search by name, city, state, or zip code.

MODULE 3

Step 6: Review your search results which appear in alphabetical order for the geographic area you entered.
Write down the information for any VSOs you find here:

Contact Information:

VSO Name:

Contact Information:

VSO Name:

Contact Information:

VSO Name:

Contact Information:

VSO Name:

Contact Information:

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APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

VSO Name:

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Connecting with Your Community

Veteran Peer Groups offer support from people whoshare your experiences and navigated the transition
journey before you.
These grassroots support groups focus on more than just benefits—including
community reintegration, service, and legislative advocacy.

No one knows what you have been through likesomeone who has been through it themselves.

The USO Pathfinder Program
extends these services to you
and your family as you transition
from the military and settle in to
your new community.
To learn more, visit:www.uso.org/programs/
uso-pathfinder.

There are peer support services at VHA facilities. Here are just a few examplesof the hundreds, or even thousands, of support groups available (Figure 35):Y

MODULE 3

N
A

VY

SVA

APPENDIX A

AR
M

y

MODULE 4y

MODULE 5yStudent Veterans of America provides Veterans with the resources,
support, and advocacy needed to succeed in higher education andfollowing graduation. To learn more, visit studentveterans.org.
Team Red White and Blue enriches the lives of America’s Veterans byconnecting them to their community through physical and social activity.
To learn more, visit www.teamrwb.org.
Team Rubicon unites the skills and experiences of Veterans with first
responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams. To learn more, visit
teamrubiconusa.org.
The Mission Continues empowers Veterans who are adjusting to life
at home to find purpose through community impact. To learn more, visit
missioncontinues.org.

MODULE 6y

INTRO

The United Services
Organization (USO) supports
service members by keeping
them connected to family,
home, and country throughout
their service.

MODULE 1

VETERAN PEER GROUPSDID YOU KNOW?

MODULE 2

Community Support
for Veterans

APPENDIX B

Figure 35: Veteran Peer Groups

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Connecting with Your Community

VA is committed to creating Veteran-friendly
communities across the country.

To find out where a CVEB exists
in your area, visit:www.va.gov/ve/engagement/
communityboards.asp.

INTRO

COMMUNITY VETERANS ENGAGEMENT BOARDS

Where can I find a
Community Veterans
Engagement Board?

MODULE 1

Community Support
for Veterans

MODULE 2

Community Veterans Engagement Boards (CVEB) (Figure 36) give Veterans,
service members, military families, Veteran advocates, community service
providers, and stakeholders a collective voice to identify their goals. They
enable communities to work to resolve gaps in service at the local level andimprove service delivery for Veterans, military families, caregivers, and survivors.

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

VA leaders actively engage in community-based efforts that maximize thecollective impact of local services; stakeholders; and federal, state, andmunicipal agencies working together to improve Veteran outcomes where
they live, work, and raise their families.

MODULE 6

Figure 36: Community Veterans Engagement Boards Map

Where can I learn more?

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

www.va.gov/ve/engagement

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Connecting with Your Community

VA Resources
INTRO

PERSONAL RESOURCES FOR ONGOING SUPPORT
You’re not on your own. You’ve also got face-to-face support all around you.
You can reach out to your VA Benefits and Services facilitator, your local Benefits Advisor, and other
VA resources, including:yy

VA regional offices
VA medical center care teams, coordinators, and liaisons
Vet Centers24/7 crisis support:|
Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.
|
Chat online at www.veteranscrisisline.net.
|
Text 838255.

MODULE 1y

MODULE 2y

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

Depending on where you live, your state may offer additional benefits, services, and tools to help you duringtransition and beyond.

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Connecting with Your Community

VA Resources
INTRO

ONLINE RESOURCES

Resources

Main Features

VA.govywww.va.gov

ywww.ebenefits.va.gov

y
y

y
y
y

My HealtheVetywww.myhealth.va.gov

y
y
y
y
y
y

Learn about and apply for state and local benefits
Check your application status
Search for specific information on topics like disability benefits, education,
housing, tax regulations, and more
Register by creating a Basic account with VA
Request a State Benefits Information Packet
Find a VSO
Manage your health care needs
Refill and track prescriptions
Manage medication allergy information
Manage and track medical appointments
Send secure messages to your health care providers
Communicate with your health care teamAccess electronic health records to download or print what you need

Military OneSourceywww.militaryone
source.mily

Get free access to the entire military community
Connect to programs, services, and products 24/7, 365 days a year, from anywherein the worldyContinue to use services up to 365 days after your separationy

Get free and confidential services specific to Coast Guard members and families
Start your research for support services here if you are a Coast Guard member

Coast Guard Support
Systemy

MODULE 2y

MODULE 3

eBenefits

Access the GI Bill Comparison Tool to locate and compare different schools
Connect with organizations that offer support for social and mental health, PTSD, and more

MODULE 4y

MODULE 5y

Get information about VA and VA health care system
Learn about your eligibility for VA benefits, what they offer, and how to apply
Use the VA Facility Locator Tool to find intake sites, medical centers, VA cemeteries,
VSOs, and more

MODULE 6y

MODULE 1

Remember all the great online resources listed in Table 22 that are available to help you throughout all thephases of your transition.

National Resource
Directory (NRD)ySearch for vetted resources on topics such as financial planning, educationand training, employment, health care, housing, day care, and more

nrd.govyConnect to resources and services that support all service members, wounded andinjured Veterans, families, and caregiversy

APPENDIX A

www.cgsuprt.com

Connect to a variety of resources:
Federal, state, and local government agencies|
Veterans Service Organizations and Military Service Organizations|
Nonprofit and community-based organizationsy

APPENDIX B|

Locate academic institutions and professional associations

Table 22: Online Resources

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Connecting with Your Community

VA Resources
Resources

Main Features

National Guardywww.benefits.va.gov/
guardreserveyy

Veterans Justice
Programsywww.va.gov/
homeless/vjo.aspyyMODULE 1yLearn about National Guard background and history
Get current National Guard news and information
Discover National Guard programs and features
Learn about National Guard leadership
Access helpful National Guard resources
Get access to VA outreach programs and services at the earliest possible point
Re-engage with the community
Help a Veteran who may need this kind of support

MODULE 2y

INTRO

ONLINE RESOURCES (continued)

www.va.gov/
homeless/reentry.asp

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

Table 22 (continued): Online Resources

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VA Resources
INTRO

UPDATE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION IN VA.GOV
It is important to keep your personal information updated on VA.gov.
Step 1: Visit www.va.gov.

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

Step 2: Under the Records category, select the Change your address link. (Figure 37).

MODULE 5

Figure 37: VA.gov Home Page

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

Step 3: Follow the instructions on the page to change your address and other contact information inyour VA.gov profile.

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VA Resources
INTRO

IMMIGRATION AND NATURALIZATION INFORMATION











You may qualify if:yyy

You served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces during an authorized periodof conflict, OR you have served honorably, in active duty or Reserve service,
for a year or more during peacetime,
After enlistment you were lawfully admitted as a permanent residentof the U.S., OR
At the time of enlistment, reenlistment, or induction, you were physicallypresent in the U.S. or a qualifying area.

Members of the National Guard may qualify if they have honorable service ineither the U.S. Armed Forces or in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve
during an authorized period of hostility, or in a National Guard unit federally
recognized as a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces.
In addition, you must also take the Oath of Allegiance and show:
y
y
y
y
y

Good moral character
Ability to read, write, and speak basic English
Knowledge of U.S. government and history (“civics”)
Belief in the principles of the U.S. Constitution
A favorable disposition toward the good order and happinessof the U.S.

You or your liaison will mailyour completed application
and all required materials to:
USCIS
P.O. Box 4446
Chicago, IL 60680-4446

Locations of
Naturalization
Services
For a list of locations where
naturalization services
are available, visit:www.uscis.gov/about-us/
find-a-uscis-office.

For more information:yVisit the Military Help Line atwww.uscis.gov/military/
military-help-line.

yCall 877-CIS-4MIL(877-247-4645,
TTY 800-877-8339).

y

Email
militaryinfo@uscis.dhs.gov.

Where can I learn more?
www.uscis.gov/militaryParticipant Guide | Version 3.3

MODULE 2

Family Member

MODULE 3

Veteran

MODULE 4

Reserve

MODULE 5

National Guard

MODULE 6

Active Duty

Many military installations
have a U.S. Citizenship andImmigration Services (USCIS)
liaison. They can help with theapplication process and certify
your Request for Certificationof Military or Naval Service.
Ask your chain of command or
legal services office about your
USCIS liaison.

158

APPENDIX A

Am I eligible?

IF YOU QUALIFY…

APPENDIX B

Spouses and children of U.S. service members may be able to get expedited oroverseas naturalization. Non-U.S. citizen family members may also be able touse other immigration services on a case-by-case basis, including parole-inplace or deferred action. Family members of deceased service members may
also be eligible for immigration benefits.

MODULE 1

Service members or Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces interested in becoming
U.S. citizens may be able to apply for naturalization under the Immigration andNationality Act (INA). If you are currently on active duty or within 6 months ofseparation, you may not have to live or be physically present in the U.S. before
you apply for naturalization. You also may not have to pay any fees.

Connecting with Your Community

INTRO

Activity Worksheet:
Update Your Personal Checklist
Refer one last time to Appendix B to update your checklist based on these final actions you may want to take todiscover or set up your network of support.

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

MODULE 6

MODULE 5

MODULE 4

MODULE 3

MODULE 2

MODULE 1

For this last portion, look at Section 13 of the checklist.

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PRINT

Appendix A: Your Key Resources
INTRO

Write the contact information below for your Benefits Advisors and local resources, along with any additional
information and resources you need.

MODULE 1

My VA Benefits Advisor:

MODULE 2

My VA Regional Office:My VA Health Facility:

MODULE 3

My Vet Center:

My Veterans Service Organization:

MODULE 4

Other Key Resource:

Other Key Resource:

MODULE 5

Other Key Resource:

MODULE 6

Other Key Resource:

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

Other Key Resource:

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By completing the checklist below, you can begin taking advantage of VA benefits, services, and tools that can help you
build the kind of life you want. During the course, you will have several opportunities to update this checklist.

yReview each section as instructed by your facilitator.
Customize your checklist by:|
Crossing out the things that don’t apply to you.
|
Using the blank spaces to add more items to your list.
Check the boxes when you complete each item.

MODULE 1yStore printed separation documents in a safe place and tell my nextof kin or others who need to know where they are locatedAs soon as I receive them

Establish personal goals and priorities

Now

Set up a One-On-One Assistance session with my Benefits Advisor

Before I leave this course

Create a DS Logon and/or register for an eBenefits account

As soon as possible, if I haven’t alreadyRegister/create an account on VA.gov

As soon as possible, if I haven’t alreadyComplete the Transition Assistance Curriculum Participant Assessment
for the VA Benefits and Services course

As soon as possible, if I haven’t already

Disability Compensation and Related Benefits

MODULE 4

As soon as I receive them

MODULE 5

Check my separation documents for accuracy

MODULE 3

Timeline/Deadline

Timeline/Deadline

Gather copies of my service treatment records to support mypre-discharge disability compensation claim (if applicable)

Prior to submitting my disability claim

Appoint a Veterans Service Officer from an accredited VeteransService Organization (VSO) to prepare and submit my claim on
my behalf (if applicable)

Before separation

Submit a pre-discharge disability claim under the Benefits Delivery
at Discharge program (if applicable)

180 to 90 days prior to my separation(the closer to 180 days, the better)

Complete my Separation Health Assessment required for disability
claims (if applicable)

Less than 180 days prior to myseparation

Apply for related benefits, such as clothing or automobile
allowances, if eligible

As needed

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Supporting Yourself and Your Family

2

General Items

APPENDIX B

Navigating Your Journey

1

MODULE 2

Be sure to note the deadlines and important time frames to complete each action on time.

MODULE 6y

INTROAppendix B: Your Personal Checklist

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Appendix B: Your Personal Checklist

Timeline/Deadline

Apply for Combat Related Special Compensation and Concurrent
Retirement and Disability Pay, if applicable

Upon receipt of VA disability rating,if also receiving retired pay

Apply for VA Pension (if applicable)

As soon as I am age 65 or older, or
have limited or no income

INTRO

Disability Compensation and Related Benefits (continued)

MODULE 1

2

Determine my insurance coverage needs and eligibility for myself
and/or spouse and dependents

As soon as possible

Apply to convert my Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) coverage
to Veterans’ Group Life Insurance

1 year and 120 days from separation(no health review if apply in first
240 days)

Apply to extend my SGLI coverage with the SGLI Disability Extension

Within 2 years of my separation date

Apply for SGLI Traumatic Injury Protection (if applicable)

As soon as possible, if I did not apply
while in service (if eligible)

Apply for Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance (if applicable)

Basic: Within 2 years of VA notifying
me of a new service-connecteddisability

MODULE 2

Timeline/Deadline

MODULE 3

Life Insurance

MODULE 4

3

As soon as possible

Burial and Memorial Benefits

Timeline/Deadline

Discuss my needs and wishes with my loved ones

As soon as possible

Register for the VA burial Pre-Need Program

As soon as possible

Tell my family how to apply for burial benefits upon my death

As soon as possible

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MODULE 6

Tell my family about all my insurance and how to file a claim

APPENDIX A

No later than 120 days after myseparation

APPENDIX B

4

Apply to convert Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance
to a policy with a participating commercial insurer (if applicable)

MODULE 5

Supplemental: Within 1 year of VA
approval of premium waiver or prior
to age 65, whichever occurs first

162

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Appendix B: Your Personal Checklist

Monetary and Education Benefits for Survivors

INTRO

Timeline/Deadline

Apply for Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)
for my spouse or dependents, if applicable (only if I am permanently
and totally disabled as a result of a service-related condition)

As soon as possible

Tell my family about monetary benefits they may be eligible forupon my death: Dependency and Indemnity Compensation and
the Survivors Pension

As soon as possible

Tell my family about education benefits they may be eligible for upon
my death: DEA and the Fry Scholarship

As soon as possible

Transfer benefits to dependents prior to departing the military

As soon as possible, if I haven’t already

MODULE 4

5

As soon as possible

MODULE 1

Tell my family how to apply for a Presidential Memorial Certificate
upon my death

Timeline/Deadline

MODULE 2

Burial and Memorial Benefits (continued)

MODULE 3

4

Education Benefits
Apply for one of the following GI Bill benefits:
Post-9/11 GI Bill

Timeline/Deadline
MODULE 5

6

As soon as I determine if
I will use the benefit

After/if I determine going to schoolis the next step

Find out more about Veterans Success on Campus
or Veterans Integration to Academic Leadership programs
at participating schools I might be interested in attending

As soon as I identify schools thatmight be right for me

APPENDIX A

Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to compare schools
and do other useful research

MODULE 6

Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve

APPENDIX B

Getting Career Ready

Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty

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Appendix B: Your Personal Checklist

Finding a Place to Live

Attend orientation session for Personalized Career Planning
and Guidance or VR&E if approved

As scheduled by VA

Employment Resources

INTRO

When I am ready for job training
and employment, if eligible

MODULE 1

Apply for Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)(if applicable)

Timeline/Deadline
When I need more information or am
ready to apply for a federal/VA job

Obtain a Veterans’ Preference letter from VA.gov

As soon as I determine I want to apply
for federal government jobs

Explore VA resources and tools to find careers at VA or other federal
agencies at www.va.gov/jobs

When I am ready to explore
the workforce

Explore potential careers using resources at www.dol.gov/vets

When I am ready to explore
the workforce

Timeline/Deadline

Ensure I have satisfactory credit and sufficient income

Depending on my needs

Get my Certificate of Eligibility (COE) for a VA Home Loan Guaranty
from eBenefits or my lender

Depending on my needs

Complete the loan application with my lender and ensure
they have my COE

Depending on my needs

Apply for the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant (if applicable)

As soon as I determine that I’d liketo apply for one, if eligible

Apply for the Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grant (if applicable)

As soon as I determine that I’d liketo apply for one, if eligible

Apply for Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance if I get a SAH grantor SHA grant (if applicable)

As soon as I have a title and amortgage on the home, and prior
to age 70, if eligible

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MODULE 5

Housing Benefits

MODULE 4

Connect with a Veteran Employment Services Office representative

MODULE 2

As soon as I determine I need it

MODULE 3

Apply for Personalized Career Planning and Guidance benefit

MODULE 6

9Timeline/Deadline

APPENDIX A

8Career Counseling Opportunities

APPENDIX B

7

164

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Appendix B: Your Personal Checklist

Schedule a One-On-One Assistance session with my Benefits Advisor
if I’m concerned about possibly being homeless after separation

As soon as possible

Call 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838) or visit my local VA medical
center or community resource and referral center for assistance

As soon as possible

Explore www.va.gov/homeless to learn about VA programs for
Veterans who are homeless and share that information with others

As soon as possible

Apply for VA Pension (if applicable)

As soon as I am age 65 or older,or have limited or no income

INTRO

Timeline/Deadline

MODULE 1

Homeless Veterans Support

MODULE 2

10MODULE 3

Timeline/Deadline
Up to 1 year after my separation

Explore the National Resource Directory for resources in my community

Anytime before or after my separation

Request a State Benefits Information Packet for any state I am interested in

As soon as possible

Timeline/Deadline
Before my first post-separation healthcare appointment

Complete and submit my online application for VA health care,ensuring that my contact information is accurate

As soon as possible (cannot register
more than 1 year prior to separation)

Apply for VA dental insurance

No time limit associated withthis benefit

Enroll in the Foreign Medical Program (if applicable)

No time limit associated withthis benefit

Take advantage of VA mental health services

Within 1 year of separation(for free mental health care)

MODULE 6

Complete my Personal Health Inventory

Note: You can still file a disability
claim related to mental health issues
even after 1 year has passed.

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MODULE 5

Maintaining Your Health

MODULE 4

Explore Military OneSource for resources in my community

APPENDIX A

Maintaining Your Health

12State and Local Benefits

APPENDIX B

11

165

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
Appendix B: Your Personal Checklist

Timeline/Deadline

Reach out in times of crisis by using the Veterans Crisis Line—call,chat online, or text

Any time—24 hours a day, 7 daysa week, 365 days a year

Apply for disability compensation for posttraumatic stress disorder(if eligible) or military sexual trauma

No time limit associated withthese benefits

Register for a My HealtheVet accountBasic account: As soon as possible

INTRO

Maintaining Your Health (continued)

MODULE 1

12

Premium account: After myseparation

MODULE 2
MODULE 3

Ensure I have a DS Logon and access to eBenefits

As soon as possible

Update my contact information on VA.gov

As soon as possible

Set up a One-On-One Assistance session with my Benefits Advisor

As soon as possible

Locate a VSO on VA.gov

Depending on needs

Connect with a VSO in person at a VA medical center, VA regional office,or military installation

Depending on needs

Connect with a Veteran Peer Group of my choice; there are many
to choose from

Depending on needs

Use online resources such as VA.gov, eBenefits, My HealtheVet, Military
OneSource, and the National Resource Directory to search for
information on benefits and community connections

Depending on needs

MODULE 4

Timeline/Deadline

MODULE 5

Community Connections

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX A

Connecting with Your Community

13

Depending on preferences

MODULE 6

Opt out of Veterans Health Information Exchange (if applicable)or opt back in (if applicable)

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