Save time, avoid frustration: Filing to obtain the benefits you have earned as a veteran is more complicated than you would expect; especially if you want to be successful on the first pass. Our first recommendation to veterans considering filing for benefits is to utilize the services of county, state and nationwide veteran service officers when applying for veterans’ health care services or benefits or filing claims for service-connected disability benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These service officers can facilitate your claim through most government or third-party entities and processes. We suggest your first call is to your local County Veteran Service Office (CVSO). These county employees are highly skilled in quickly and successfully coordinating the entire county, State or VA processes. Schedule an appointment. Bring a copy of your DD-214. They will fill out the forms and identify medical records or other requirements at NO COST. They are accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
If there is no nearby CVSO, please refer to the National Association of State Departments of Veterans Affairs webpage. Give them a phone call or look under “Information & Resources” where you’ll find a map to connect you to county and state veteran service offices in your state.
If you haven’t found a local veteran service representative by now or you are looking for a particular type of representative (lawyer or accredited agent) or from a particular national veteran service organization (VFW, DAV, AmVets, PVA, VVA, American Legion, etc.) please contact us and we will help you find what you are looking for.” Questions or Comments? Contact members of our USNA Alumni Health and Wellness Committee below.