Eligibility requirements can get a little confusing, because they are determined by where and when you served, how long you served, your service commitment, and your duty status. Complete eligibility requirements can be found on the VA website,(Opens in a new Window) but here are the basic rules:
If you are a veteran who served after October 17, 1981, you need to have served for 24 continuous months, with 90-181 days of active duty (depending on time of service). For those who served before 1981, check guidelines for specific requirements.
If you are or were in the National Guard or Reserve, you need to have been on active duty for at least 90 days.
If you are a surviving spouse of a veteran who was missing in action, died in action, or died from a disability related to his or her service, you may also qualify to receive the benefit. See full details.