Even with only a small fraction of eligible claimants filing for benefits, about 5 million benefit determinations are made each year at the 58 VA regional offices around the country.
Eligibility depends upon individual circumstances.
Counselors can answer questions about benefits eligibility and application procedures. They also make referrals to other VA facilities, such as medical centers and national cemeteries. Phone numbers of VA offices in South Dakota, are listed in this web site. VA facilities also are listed in the federal government section of telephone directories under Department of Veterans Affairs. Once enrolled, a veteran is eligible to receive services without further processing.