Yes , if your school still has Yellow Ribbon funds available for the per - student maximum contribution for the summer term.


How your benefits may change from year to year


Not always. We require a new Yellow Ribbon Program agreement each year.


If your school has an approved agreement with us and continues to participate in the program , they must continue to offer the Yellow Ribbon benefits to you the next year as long as you meet all of the requirements listed below.


All of these must be true. You: Make acceptable progress toward completing your program according to your school , and Stay enrolled in the school without a break following the school s policy, and Have money left in your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits


Check the status of your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits


If you transfer to a different school , your new school needs to offer Yellow Ribbon benefits and accept your application for you to continue in the program. Your first school s decision doesn t affect your new school s decision.


No. Even if you stay enrolled , keep progressing in your program , and have money left in your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits , your school can choose to offer a different amount each year.


Your school must notify you if they plan to stop offering the program.


If you take fewer courses , we ll pay less toward your tuition and fees. Your school will also reduce the amount they pay.


We base refunds on each school s refund policy. You ll need to pay us back for any overpayments we may have made to the school that they don t refund.


If the school still offers the program , they must continue to give you funding as long as you meet all of the requirements listed below.


Active-duty service members and VA health care


If you re serving on active duty , including as a returning OEF / OIF / OND service member , find out how to apply for VA health care once you ve received your separation or retirement orders. Your eligibility for VA health care and other health care coverage depends on your service history and other factors.


Enhanced eligibility for returning OEF / OIF / OND combat Veterans Eligibility after separation Eligibility after retirement Getting started with VA health care


Enhanced eligibility for returning OEF/OIF/OND combat Veterans


You can receive free VA health care for up to 5 years after discharge or release for any condition related to your service in Operation Enduring Freedom OEF in Afghanistan or Operation Iraqi Freedom OIF or Operation New Dawn OND in Iraq. This is called an enhanced eligibility period.


We encourage you to apply right away


If you wait to apply for VA health care until after your enhanced eligibility period ends , we won t factor your OEF / OIF / OND combat Veteran status into our decision on your enrollment. Instead , we ll base your eligibility on factors such as your income and VA disability rating. So even if you don t think you need medical care right now , we encourage you to apply for VA health care right away to take advantage of this enhanced eligibility period.


You may qualify for enhanced eligibility if you meet all of the requirements listed below.


All of these must be true. You: Served in a theater of combat operations after November 11 , 1998, and Were discharged or released from active service on or after January 29 , 2003 , and Didn t receive a dishonorable discharge


We ll use the documents listed below to determine your service in a theater of combat operations : Military service documentation that reflects service in a combat theater , or Receipt of combat service medals , or Receipt of combat tax exemption, imminent danger, or hostile fire pay


If you qualify for enhanced eligibility as an OEF / OIF / OND combat Veteran : We ll enroll you right away. We ll assign you to priority group 6, unless you qualify for a higher priority group based on your income or a service - connected disability. Learn more about priority groups You ll receive free care and medications for any condition that may be related to your combat service. You may need to pay copays for care and medications that we determine are clearly not related to your military service , but you can submit your income as part of your application to apply for a copay exemption. Learn more about how we determine your health care costs View current copay rates You ll stay enrolled in VA health care even after your OEF / OIF / OND enhanced eligibility period ends. We ll reassign you to the highest priority group you qualify for at that time.


You may be eligible for one - time dental care for any needed conditions. Be sure to apply within 180 days of discharge or separation. You may also qualify for VA dental care based on other factors. Find out if you may be eligible for VA dental care


Eligibility after separation


If you're a Veteran who's recently separated from active duty, including active National Guard or Reserve duty , you may be eligible for VA health care for all or some of your health care needs. We ll determine your eligibility based on your service history, VA disability rating, income, and other factors. If you had active - duty status for training purposes only , you don t qualify for VA health care. Learn more about VA health care eligibility Find out how to apply for VA health care


You and your family may also qualify for temporary health coverage through the Department of Defense s TRICARE program. If you re a member of the National Guard and Reserve , your coverage options will depend on your military status before you separate. You ll have 90 days from your separation date to change your health plan.


Visit the TRICARE website to learn more about how to enroll for temporary TRICARE coverage after separation.


Eligibility after retirement


You may be eligible for the Department of Defense s TRICARE program as a military retiree. Your family members may also qualify for care. You ll need to enroll within 90 days after your retirement date even if you re already enrolled in TRICARE on active duty.


Visit the TRICARE website to learn more about how to enroll in TRICARE as a military retiree.


You may also be eligible for certain VA health care benefits. Learn more about VA health care eligibility Find out how to apply for VA health care


If you re being medically retired from active duty


You may be eligible to receive care through VA for any service - connected disabilities. You may also qualify to receive all other care through TRICARE. Your eligible family members may also qualify for care through TRICARE.


To learn more about your options , talk with a VA benefits counselor. Your counselor will help you determine what your military and VA medical board ratings mean and how they affect your options. Your counselor will also help you apply for benefits.


Call our health benefits hotline at 877 - 222 - 8387 to connect with a benefits counselor. If you have hearing loss , call TTY : 800 - 877 - 8339. We re here Monday through Friday , 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET. Or contact your nearest VA medical center. Find a VA medical center near you


Getting started with VA health care


Can I use VA health care while I m still on active duty?


Yes. You can apply as soon as you ve received your separation or retirement papers. If we determine you re eligible , you ll be enrolled once you ve separated or retired.


You may be able to use VA health care if : You need emergency or urgent care. We ll provide care first, and then get TRICARE authorization for care once we ve stabilized your health. You need routine care and you have a valid TRICARE referral or authorization. The VA health facility you re visiting has a VA / DoD sharing agreement that allows us to provide care without referrals. For more information about this , please contact your local military hospital or clinic also called a military treatment facility or TRICARE office. Find a military treatment facility Contact TRICARE


What if I ve just separated and I don t know where to start?


VR&E Independent Living track


If your service - connected disability limits your ability to perform activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, accessing the community, and interacting with others and you can t return to work right away , you may qualify for independent living services through the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment VR&E Independent Living track. You may also receive these services as you work to find a job if that s a goal you and your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor VRC have created. In both cases , your VRC can help you restore your daily - living activities. Find out if you may be eligible for services to help you live as independently as possible.


Can I get independent living services through VR&E?


You may be eligible for independent living services if you re a service member or Veteran with a service - connected disability who is eligible for VR&E benefits, and you meet all of the requirements listed below.


All of these must be true : You have a serious employment handicap SEH , and Your disabilities prevent you from looking for or returning to work , and You re in need of services to live as independently as possible


Please note: Having an employment handicap means your service - connected disability limits your ability to prepare for, obtain, and maintain suitable employment a job that doesn t make your disability worse, is stable, and matches your abilities, aptitudes, and interests.


Depending on your needs , services may include : to identify your needs and goals Evaluation and counseling Home consultations with specialists Referral to support resources Guidance to help you understand if you re eligible for our adaptive - housing programs. These programs can help you make changes to your home like widening doorways or adding ramps so you can live more independently. Learn more about adaptive housing grants


These services generally last up to 24 months. In some cases , you may be able to use services for longer than this.


If you re eligible , a VRC will work with you to determine the severity of your service - connected disability, if you re ready to work, and if you ll benefit from independent living services. Your VRC will help you create a personalized, written independent living plan that meets your needs.


Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI)


TSGLI also known as Servicemembers Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection provides short - term financial support to help eligible service members recover from a severe injury. If you were covered by SGLI and experienced a traumatic injury while serving in the military , find out how to file a claim for TSGLI or appeal a past decision.


Am I eligible for TSGLI?


You may be able to get TSGLI if you were insured by SGLI when you experienced a traumatic injury , and you meet all of the requirements listed below.


All of these must be true. You: Have a scheduled loss that is a direct result of the traumatic injury , and Suffered the traumatic injury before midnight on the day that you left the military , and Suffered a scheduled loss within 2 years 730 days of the traumatic injury , and Have survived for a period of not less than 7 full days from the date of the traumatic injury the 7-day period begins on the date and time of the traumatic injury and ends 168 full hours later , and Were an active - duty military member, a Reservist, a National Guard member, on funeral - honors duty, or on 1-day muster duty


Are any injuries excluded from TSGLI?


Yes. To qualify for TSGLI , none of the descriptions below can be true of your injury.


None of these can be true. Your injury can t : Be self - inflicted on purpose or the result of an attempt at self - injury, or Involve the use of an illegal drug or a controlled substance that was given or taken without the advice of a medical doctor , or Be the result of medical or surgical treatment of an illness or disease, or Occur while you re committing or trying to commit a felony, or Be the result of a physical or mental illness or disease not including illness or disease caused by a wound infection; a chemical, biological, or radiological weapon; or accidentally swallowing a contaminated substance


View TSGLI loss standards


Can I get retroactive TSGLI for a past injury?


You may be able to get retroactive TSGLI meaning that it takes effect starting from a date in the past if you were injured between October 7 , 2001, and November 30 , 2005 , and you meet all of the TSGLI qualifications listed above.


You can use this benefit no matter where the injury happened whether you were on or off duty and no matter if your SGLI coverage was in effect when you got injured.


Note: We ve removed the previous requirement that you must have been injured during Operations Enduring or Iraqi Freedom OEF or OIF. Find out if you qualify for retroactive benefits


Service members covered by SGLI


What kind of life insurance benefits can I get through TSGLI?


You may get $25,000 to $100,000 in short - term financial support to help in your recovery from a traumatic injury.


You re automatically covered through TSGLI if you re signed up for full - time SGLI. This insurance covers you even if your injury happened while you were off duty.


To get payments including retroactive TSGLI payments you ll need to apply. To file a claim , fill out the Application for TSGLI Benefits SGLV 8600 , and fax, email , or mail it to us. Look for the address of your service branch on the front page of the form. Download the Application for TSGLI Benefits PDF


How do I appeal a decision if I m denied benefits?


First , look at the denial letter you received from your branch of service. Your letter will tell you if you should use the TSGLI Appeal Request Form SGLV 8600A and how long you ll have to submit your appeal.


If your letter says to complete this form , fill it out and submit it to your branch of service. Download the TSGLI Appeal Request Form PDF


If you have SGLI coverage , your SGLI premium which is automatically deducted from your base pay includes a $1-per - month flat - rate premium for TSGLI. This is all you ll pay for this benefit.


VA nursing homes, assisted living, and home health care


As a Veteran , you may be able to get assisted living, residential live - in, or home health care through VA . Find out how to access these long - term care services.


What kinds of long-term care services does VA offer for sick or disabled Veterans?


Our long - term care services include : 24/7 nursing and medical care Physical therapy Help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, making meals, and taking medicine Comfort care and help with managing pain Support for caregivers who may need skilled help or a break so they can work, travel, or run errands


You can get this care in many different settings some run by VA and others run by state or community organizations that we inspect and approve.


Care settings may include : Nursing homes Assisted - living centers where a caregiver supports a small group of individuals Private homes Adult day health centers Veterans own homes


You can learn more about the different types of care below or see our guide to long - term services and supports.


How do I access these services?


You may be able to use one or more of these services if you meet all of the requirements listed below.


All of these must be true : You re signed up for VA health care , and We conclude that you need a specific service to help with your ongoing treatment and personal care , and The service or space in the care setting is available near you


We may also consider other factors, like your service - connected disability status or insurance coverage.


To find out how to access these services , contact your VA social worker. Or , call our toll - free hotline at 877 - 222 - 8387, Monday through Friday , 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.


If you re not currently in the VA health care program , you can apply for benefits now. Apply now


Does VA pay for these services?


We cover some of these services under your standard health benefits if you re signed up for VA health care. You may still need to pay a copay for some covered services. Apply for VA health care


Other services aren t covered under VA health care benefits. For these services , you may be able to pay through Medicaid, Medicare, or your own private insurance.


Learn more about paying for long - term care


Where can I get more information and support?


Get help setting goals and priorities and making tough decisions about things like long - term care. Learn more about the shared decision - making process Find services and resources to help with geriatric elder and long - term care. Find services Get more information about geriatric and long - term care as well as how to deal with diseases like Alzheimer s and dementia. Visit the geriatrics section of VA.gov


More details about your care options


You can get nursing home care in 1 of the 3 different nursing home settings listed below. In each , you d live there full time and have access to nursing and medical care, as well as help with daily tasks 24 hours a day.


You may be able to get VA benefits to help pay for nursing home care. It depends on your income and the level of your service - connected disability a disability that resulted from your military service.


Learn more about :


that are designed to feel like home Community Living Centers VA nursing centers


that we contract with in many parts of the country so you can get care near your home and family Community Nursing Homes Non - VA nursing homes


State Veterans Homes State - owned and -managed centers that provide full - time care for Veterans and , sometimes , non - Veteran spouses and Gold Star parents


You may be able to get community residential live - in care in settings such as those listed below. In each setting , a trained professional will provide care and support with daily tasks 24 hours a day.


These places are not run, staffed, or paid for by VA , but we do inspect and approve each one. And you may be able to use VA benefits to help pay for extra services like visits from a VA health care provider.


Medical foster homes Private homes where a few people live together and get care


Adult family homes or adult foster homes Private homes with rooms to rent for 6 or fewer people


where Veterans can live in a rented room or apartment, and have access to shared living spaces like a dining room Assisted living facilities Centers


If you re signed up for VA health care , you can get help managing your disability or health condition while living at home. The services you qualify for will depend on your needs and whether a service is available in your area. If you need to , you may be able to use more than one service at the same time.


Home - based primary care A VA health care team , led by a VA doctor , who provides services like nursing care, physical therapy, and help with daily tasks in your home


Homemaker / home health aide H / HHA services A trained caregiver supervised by a registered nurse who comes into your home to help you care for yourself


you can go to during the day for social activities, companionship, and recreation as well as care and support Adult day health care A program


Hospice care Skilled caregivers who come into your home to provide comfort care to you and your family. You qualify for hospice care if you have a terminal condition a condition that can t be treated, with less than 6 months to live, and you re no longer seeking treatment other than to ease pain.


who come into your home to provide comfort care to help ease your pain and control your symptoms so you can do as much as possible in your daily life Palliative care Skilled caregivers


If you re signed up for VA health care , you can get home - based health care as part of your benefits. The services that you qualify for will depend on your needs.


who come to your house to provide care such as wound care, physical therapy, social work support, and help with daily tasks Skilled home health care Health care providers from a community - based home health agency


Home Telehealth A VA care coordinator who keeps track of your health remotely using special equipment in your home and will check in with you by phone, if needed. If there are any signs of a problem , your care coordinator will work with you and your VA doctor and nurse to figure out what to do next.


You may be able to get a service called respite care as part of your VA health care benefits. This service pays for a person to come into your home or for you to go to a program outside your home while your family caregiver takes a break. Learn more about respite care


Other services for home health care like adult day health care or skilled health aide services listed above can also help to support caregivers.


Yes. We offer Geriatric Patient Aligned Care Team GeriPACT services in about two - thirds of VA medical centers.


GeriPACT provides expert care to Veterans with challenging health care needs due to conditions such as : More than one complex chronic disease Dementia or cognitive decline Geriatric syndromes like frailty, falls, incontinence, memory loss, taking many medicines, or being 65 years or older Caregiver burden the stress and strain that can come from caring for someone with complex needs


Note: GeriPACT is not for Veterans with untreated substance abuse. It may also not be the right fit for Veterans who only need a prescription refill for a medicine like Aricept used to treat Alzheimer s disease.


Learn more about geriatric care


Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance


Learn about the Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance DEA program. If you re the child or spouse of a Veteran or service member who has died, is captured or missing, or has disabilities , you may be able to get help paying for school or job training through the DEA program also called Chapter 35. Find out if you re eligible for this benefit.


Am I eligible for education benefits through the DEA program?


You may be able to get these benefits if both you and the Veteran or service member meet certain eligibility requirements.


One of the descriptions below must be true. The Veteran or service member : Is permanently and totally disabled due to a service - connected disability , or Died while on active duty or as a result of a service - connected disability , or Is missing in action or was captured in the line of duty by a hostile force , or Was forcibly detained held or interned in the line of duty by a foreign entity , or Is in the hospital or getting outpatient treatment for a service - connected permanent and total disability and is likely to be discharged for that disability effective December 23 , 2006


If you re the child of a Veteran or service member


You can get benefits if you re between the ages of 18 and 26, except in certain cases. You may be married or unmarried. If you re over 18 years old and using DEA , you can t get Dependency and Indemnity Compensation DIC from us. Learn about DIC If you join the military , you can t use this benefit while on active duty. And if you want to use this benefit after you leave the service , you can t have a dishonorable discharge. Military service can extend your eligibility , but this increase doesn t usually go past your 31st birthday.


If you re the spouse of a Veteran or service member


Your benefits start on the date we conclude that you qualify or on the date of the Veteran s death, and last for 10 years. If we rated the Veteran as permanently and totally disabled, with an effective date that s 3 years after discharge , you ll qualify for benefits for 20 years from that effective date. This new policy began on October 10 , 2008. We won t pay benefits for training you started before this date. If the service member died on active duty , your benefits end 20 years from the date of death. You can get DIC payments from us and use DEA benefits.


We ll send you a monthly payment to help you cover the cost of : College or graduate degree programs Career - training certificate courses Educational and career counseling Apprenticeships On - the - job training


Note: If you began using this program to pay for your school or training before August 1 , 2018 , you can get benefits for up to 45 months. If you began using the program on or after August 1 , 2018 , you can get benefits for up to 36 months.


View current payment rates


What if I qualify for both DEA and the Fry Scholarship?


You ll need to pick one or the other. Once you make this choice , you can t switch to the other program. Learn about the Fry Scholarship


Exception : If you re the child of a service member who died in the line of duty before August 1 , 2011 , you can use both DEA and the Fry Scholarship and get up to 81 months of education and training. You ll need to use one program at a time.


Can I get more help if I have a disability that prevents me from working toward my goals?


We may prescribe special restorative training, if needed, to help you overcome or lessen the effects of a physical or mental disability so you can work toward your educational or training goal. Or we may approve special vocational training you may need due to a physical or mental disability. These special benefits won t include medical or psychiatric care.


First , contact your school s certifying official to make sure your program is approved for VA benefits. Then , you can : Apply online now , or Apply by mail. You ll need to fill out a Dependents Application for VA Education Benefits VA Form 22 - 5490 and mail it to the regional processing office for your state. You ll find the address on the last page of the form. Download VA Form 22 - 5490


If you haven t started school or a training program:


Get help from a trained professional trusted to help with VA - related claims. Get help filing your claim Get more information about schools and see if we ve approved your program. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool


If you ve already started your program:


Take your application to your school or employer. Ask your school to fill out a VA Enrollment Certification VA Form 22 - 1999 and send it to us along with your application.


About VA insurance options and eligibility


Find out which VA insurance programs may be right for you as a Veteran, service member, spouse, or dependent child.


How do I know which life insurance program I m eligible for?


Different programs cover Veterans VGLI, service members SGLI, and family members FSGLI. You may also be able to get short - term financial coverage through TSGLI to help you recover from a traumatic severe injury. And if you re disabled because of an injury or illness caused or made worse by your active service , you may be able to get coverage through S - DVI to continue your life insurance beyond 2 years after you leave the military.


Note: If you re ending your military tour of duty soon , you ll need to get new coverage quickly. In some cases , you must act within 120 days of leaving the military to be sure there s no break in your coverage.


VA life insurance options


Servicemembers Group Life Insurance SGLI Get group life insurance while you re serving.


Family Servicemembers Group Life Insurance FSGLI Add coverage for your spouse and dependent children children who rely on you for financial support.


Traumatic Injury Protection TSGLI Get short - term financial support to help you recover from a severe injury.


Veterans Group Life Insurance VGLI Get group life insurance once you ve ended your service.


Service - Disabled Veterans Insurance S - DVI If you re disabled because of an injury or illness caused or made worse by your active service , continue your life insurance beyond 2 years after you leave the military.


Veterans Mortgage Life Insurance VMLI If you have a severe service - connected disability , get mortgage protection insurance for a home that s been adapted to meet your needs.


If you re a family member caring for a Veteran with disabilities , we want to support you. We recognize that family caregivers enhance the health and well - being of Veterans they care for in their home. Find out if you qualify for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers and how to apply.


We re working to give more family caregivers access to this program


As part of the VA MISSION Act , we re working to give more family caregivers access to this program so we can support them as they care for Veterans of all eras. We re in the process of putting in place the technology we need to support this expanded access. Then , the expansion will happen in 2 phases.


First , family caregivers of Veterans who were seriously injured in the line of duty on or before May 7 , 1975, will become eligible for this program. After 2 years , family caregivers of Veterans who were seriously injured in the line of duty betweenMay 7 , 1975, and September 10 , 2001, will become eligible.


Please check our MISSION Act website for ongoing updates. You can also call our caregiver support line at 855 - 260 - 3274 to learn about the many support services you can access now. We re here Monday through Friday , 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.


Can I get benefits through the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers?


You ll qualify for this program based on your Veteran s qualifications. You may be eligible if the Veteran you re caring for meets both of the requirements listed below.


Both of these must be true. The Veteran you re caring for : Has a serious injury including traumatic brain injury, psychological trauma, or other mental disorder that was caused or made worse by their active - duty service on or after September 11 , 2001, and because they can t perform one or more activities of daily living and/or needs supervision or protection based on symptoms of lasting neurological damage or injury Needs personal care services


Answer a few questions to find out if you meet the criteria for this program. Find out if you qualify and download an application Download our fact sheet for more eligibility information PDF


What benefits can I get with this program?


Your Veteran can appoint 1 primary main caregiver and up to 2 secondary caregivers people who serve as backup support to the primary caregiver when needed. Your benefits will depend on whether you re the primary caregiver or a secondary caregiver.


If you re the primary caregiver , you may receive : Caregiver education and training A monthly stipend payment Travel, lodging, and financial assistance when traveling with the Veteran to receive care Access to health care benefits through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs CHAMPVA if you don t already qualify for care or services under another health care plan. Learn more about CHAMPVA Mental health services and counseling Up to 30 days per year of respite care


You ll need to apply for these benefits. To apply , fill out an Application for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers VA Form 10 - 10CG. You ll need identification and health coverage information for both you and your Veteran and you ll both need to sign and date the form.


Download VA Form 10 - 10CG PDF


Mail the form and any supporting documents to :


Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family CaregiversHealth Eligibility Center2957 Clairmont Road NE , Ste 200Atlanta, GA 30329 - 1647


Or apply in person by bringing the application to your local VA medical center caregiver support coordinator.


To find the name of your local coordinator :


Contact the Caregiver Support Line at 855 - 260 - 3274, or


Use our online caregiver support coordinator search tool


If you need help filling out the form , you can contact your local coordinator, or call our main VA information line at 877 - 222 - 8387.


VA Vocational Rehabilitation (Chapter 31)


If you have a service - connected disability that limits your ability to work or prevents you from working , the VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment VR&E program also referred to as Chapter 31 can help. Find out if you re eligible and how to apply for vocational rehabilitation benefits and services, like help exploring employment options and any required training needs. In some cases , your family members may also be eligible for certain benefits.


For service members and Veterans with service-connected disabilities


VR&E programs for service members and VeteransExplore VR&E support - and - services tracks for help learning new skills, finding a new job, starting a business, getting educational counseling, or returning to your former job.


EligibilityFind out if you can get VR&E benefits and services as a service member or Veteran.


How to applyFind out how to apply for VR&E benefits and services as a service member or Veteran.


Accessing VR&E through the Integrated Disability Evaluation System IDES If you're wounded, injured, or fall ill while serving and can't perform your duties , find out how you can access VR&E services as soon as possible through IDES.


For family members of service members and Veterans with service-connected disabilities


Dependent family membersFind out if you're eligible for certain counseling services, training, and education benefits.


More helpful resources


External resourcesGet links to more resources outside VA that can help you in your job search.


Eligibility for VA disability benefits


Review VA disability benefits eligibility criteria to find out if you can get disability compensation for an illness or injury that was caused by or got worse because of your active military service. Compensation may include financial support and other benefits like health care.


Am I eligible for VA disability compensation?


You may be able to get VA disability benefits or compensation if you have a current illness or injury known as a condition that affects your body or mind and you meet at least one of the requirements listed below.


Both of these must be true. You: Served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training, and Have a disability rating for your service - connected condition


And at least one of these must be true. You: Got sick or injured while serving in the military and can link this condition to your illness or injury called an inservice disability claim , or Had an illness or injury before you joined the military and serving made it worse called a preservice disability claim , or Have a disability related to your active - duty service that didn t appear until after you ended your service called a postservice disability claim


Presumed disabilities


A chronic long - lasting illness that appears within one year after discharge , or An illness caused by contact with contaminants toxic chemicals or other hazardous materials , or An illness caused by your time spent as a prisoner of war POW


If you ve received one of these discharge statuses , you may not be eligible for VA disability benefits.


What conditions are covered by these benefits?


You may be able to get VA disability benefits for conditions such as : Chronic long - lasting back pain resulting in a current diagnosed back disability Breathing problems resulting from a current lung condition or lung disease Severe hearing loss Scar tissue Loss of range of motion problems moving your body Ulcers Cancers caused by contact with toxic chemicals or other dangers


You may also be able to get VA disability benefits for : Traumatic brain injury TBI Posttraumatic stress disorder PTSD Depression Anxiety


Get more information about conditions that may be covered


Watch our Compensation 101 videos to learn more about how VA disability compensation works :


Compensation 101 : What is disability compensation?


Compensation 101 : What is service connection?


How VA assigns disability ratingsLearn how we assign severity ratings and how they affect your disability payments.


that appear within one year after dischargeIf you Disabilities have signs of an illness that started within a year after you were discharged from active service , find out if you can get disability benefits.


Frequently asked questions about decision reviews


What s new and relevant evidence? What s Duty to Assist? What if I miss the deadline for submitting my request? What should I expect if I request a call with a senior reviewer? What should I expect if I request a hearing with a Veterans Law Judge? What if I want to change my review option after submitting a form? How do I opt in if I want my legacy claim or appeal to be considered in the modernized system?


What s new and relevant evidence?


In order to file a Supplemental Claim , you have to add evidence that s both new and relevant. New evidence is information that VA didn t have before the last decision. Relevant evidence is information that could prove or disprove something about your case. VA can t accept a Supplemental Claim without new and relevant evidence. You can either submit the evidence yourself or identify evidence, like medical records, that you d like VA to get for you.


What s Duty to Assist?


VA s Duty to Assist requires VA to assist you in getting evidence, such as medical records, that s needed to support your case. VA s Duty to Assist applies during your initial claim and if you file a Supplemental Claim. If you request a Higher - Level Review or Board Appeal , Duty to Assist doesn t apply. However , the reviewer or judge will look at whether VA met its Duty to Assist during your initial claim or Supplemental Claim , and if not, they ll have VA correct that error. Your review may take longer if this is needed.


What if I miss the deadline for submitting my request?


Submitting your request on time will ensure that you receive the maximum benefit if your case is granted. Please check the deadline for each review option and submit your request before that date.


If the deadline has passed , you can either : Add new and relevant evidence and file a Supplemental Claim. Because the deadline has passed , the effective date for benefits will generally be tied to the date VA receives the new request, not the date VA received your initial claim.


Send a letter to VA requesting that it revise the decision based on a Clear and Unmistakable Error CUE. CUE is a specific and rare kind of error. To prove CUE , you must show that the correct facts, known at the time, were not before VA or that VA incorrectly applied the law as it existed at the time. It must be undebatable that an error occurred and that this error changed the outcome of your case. Misinterpretation of the facts or a failure by VA to meet its Duty to Assist aren t sufficient reasons. Please seek guidance from a qualified representative, as you can only request CUE once per decision.


If you disagree with a Board decision , your decision will have information on additional ways to address errors.


What should I expect if I request a call with a senior reviewer?


If you request an informal conference with a senior reviewer on the Higher - Level Review option , they ll call the phone number that you or your representative provided on the Higher - Level Review form to schedule a time to discuss your case with you. The senior reviewer will try to reach you or your representative by phone twice. If no one answers , they ll leave a voice mail.


During the call , you and/or your representative can talk about why you think the decision should be changed and identify errors. There won t be transcripts of this call.


What should I expect if I request a hearing with a Veterans Law Judge?


At your hearing , you and the judge will have a conversation. The judge will listen to your testimony. The judge may ask you a few questions. Your representative , if you have one , may help you at the hearing.


What if I want to choose a different review option after I ve already submitted a form?


If you ve submitted a form and want to change your review option , you can send in a new decision review request form within 1 year from the date on your VA decision. You must include a letter that says you want to withdraw your existing review and switch to a different option.


If you requested a Board Appeal and want to switch to a different appeal option , you can send in a new Board Appeal form with a different option selected. You can switch appeal options within 1 year from the date on your VA decision or 60 days from the date you submitted your original form. You can t select a different appeal option if you ve already submitted evidence or had a hearing.


How do I opt in if I want my legacy claim or appeal to be considered in the modernized system?


If you disagree with a VA decision you received before February 19 , 2019 , you can opt in to the modernized review system after you ve received a VA Statement of the Case SOC or Supplemental Statement of the Case SSOC. To get either a SOC or an SSOC , you must file a Notice of Disagreement VA Form 21 - 0958 within 1 year of the date on your decision. Find out how to file a Notice of Disagreement


After you receive either a SOC or an SSOC on the issue in your Notice of Disagreement , you have 60 days or the remainder of the 1-year period following the decision you appealed, whichever is later, to opt in to the modernized system by submitting one of the following forms and checking the SOC / SSOC opt - in box : Decision Review Request : Supplemental Claim VA Form 20 - 0995 Decision Review Request : Higher - Level Review VA Form 20 - 0996 Decision Review Request : Board Appeal VA Form 10182


Download the forms or learn more about decision review options


Work study


Find out how our Veterans work - study program can help you earn money while you re enrolled in a college, a vocational school, or professional training program.


Can I take part in the Veterans work-study program?


You can take part in our work - study program if you meet all of the requirements listed below.


All of these must be true. You: Are enrolled at least three - quarter time in a college degree, vocational, or professional program , and Have found an open job either at a nearby VA facility or in a VA - related role at your school , and Can finish the work - study contract while you still qualify for education benefits , and Are using an approved VA education benefits program to pay for your education or training


Approved VA education benefits programs include : Post-9/11 GI Bill for Veterans Post-9/11 GI Bill for family members using transferred benefits Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty MGIB - AD Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve MGIB - SR Veterans Educational Assistance Program VEAP Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance (DEA) (Note: Dependents who qualify under 38 U.S.C. Chapter 35 may use work study only while enrolled at a school in one of the 50 states.) National Call to Service Vocational rehabilitation and employment


You can get paid to work a part - time job while you study.


You ll need to apply for the work - study program by filling out an Application for Work - Study Allowance VA Form 22 - 8691. Download VA Form 22 - 8691 PDF


If you have any questions about the program , contact the VA regional processing office that handles your claim. Contact your VA regional processing office


If you have questions about other sources of financial assistance , contact your school s financial aid office.


What kind of job can I get?


You can get a job that s related to VA work, meets your interests, and fills a need.


For example , you can work for a : VA facility Department of Defense , Coast Guard , that oversees MGIB - SR or REAP or National Guard location State Veterans agency to help Veterans get Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment benefits Center of Excellence for Veteran Student Success to support the academic, financial, physical, and social needs of Veteran students that we run together with a college, university, or other institution of higher learning Cooperative program College , university , or other institution of higher learning in any Veteran - related role. For example , you could help Veteran students with general questions about Veteran benefits, process documents for Veterans, or maintain and organize Veteran - related files.


How much will I earn?


You ll earn an hourly wage that s the same as the federal minimum wage or your state minimum wage, whichever is greater. If your school usually pays students more for the job you re doing , they may pay you the difference between the amount we pay and their usual rate.


How will I get paid?


You may elect to be paid in advance for 40% of the hours in your work - study agreement, or for 50 hours, whichever is fewer. After you ve worked the hours covered by your first payment , we ll pay you each time you finish 50 hours of service or every other week, whichever comes first.


When and how much can I work?


You can work during or between enrollment periods.


You can t work more hours total than 25 times the number of weeks in your enrollment period.


For example : If you re enrolled for a semester that lasts for 15 weeks , you can work up to 375 hours for that enrollment period.


Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD)


The Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty MGIB - AD can help you pay for education and training programs. If you ve served at least 2 years on active duty , find out if you qualify for the MGIB - AD program.


Am I eligible for education benefits through the MGIB-AD program?


You can get education benefits through this program if you were honorably discharged and you meet the requirements of one of the categories below.


One of these categories must describe you


Category I


All of these are true. You: Have a high school diploma, GED, or 12 hours of college credit , and Entered active duty for the first time after June 30 , 1985 , and Had your military pay reduced by $100 a month for the first 12 months of service


And at least one of these is true. You served continuously without a break for : 3 years , or 2 years if that was your agreement when you enlisted , or if you entered the Selected Reserve within a year of leaving active duty called the 2 by 4 program 4 years


Category II


All of these are true. You: Have a high school diploma, GED, or 12 hours of college credit , and Entered active duty before January 1 , 1977 or before January 2 , 1978, under a delayed enlistment program contracted before January 1 , 1977 , and Served at least 1 day between October 19 , 1984, and June 30 , 1985, and stayed on active duty through June 30 , 1988 or through June 30 , 1987, if you entered the Selected Reserve within 1 year of leaving active duty and served 4 years , and Had at least 1 day of entitlement left under the Vietnam Era GI Bill Chapter 34 as of December 31 , 1989


Category III


All of these are true. You: Have a high school diploma, GED, or 12 hours of college credit , and Don t qualify for MGIB under categories I or II , and Had your military pay reduced by $1,200 before separation


And one of these is true. You: Were on active duty on September 30 , 1990 , and involuntarily separated not by your choice after February 2 , 1991, or Involuntarily separated on or after November 30 , 1993 , or Chose to voluntarily separate under either the Voluntary Separation Incentive VSI program or the Special Separation Benefit SSB program


Category IV


Both of these are true. You: Have a high school diploma, GED, or 12 hours of college credit , and Had military pay reduced by $100 a month for 12 months or made a $1,200 lump - sum contribution meaning you paid it all at once


And one of these is true. You: Were on active duty on October 9 , 1996 , had money left in a VEAP account on that date, and chose MGIB before October 9 , 1997 , or Entered full - time National Guard duty under title 32, USC, between July 1 , 1985, and November 28 , 1989 , and chose MGIB between October 9 , 1996, and July 9 , 1997


You may get up to 36 months of education benefits. We ll pay the benefits monthly. The amount you ll receive depends on these factors : Your length of service , and The type of educational or training program you choose , and Your category as defined above , and Whether you qualify for a college fund or kicker , and How much you ve paid into the $600 Buy - Up program Learn more about the $600 Buy - Up program


Note: You usually have 10 years to use your MGIB - AD benefits. This may change depending on your situation.


Follow the steps below to apply for these benefits.


Make sure we've approved your program


Before you enroll , contact the school or use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to find out if we ve approved your program for VA educational benefits. If you have questions , call us at 888-GIBILL-1 888 - 442 - 4551. We're here Monday through Friday , 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET. If you have hearing loss , call TTY : 711. Or submit a question through the GI Bill website. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool Ask a question online


Note: If you want to enroll in a program that we haven t approved , you ll need to ask the school to request approval. We can t take any action until an official from your school not you requests approval. If we don t approve your program , you ll have to pay all costs at the school, including tuition and fees.


You can submit your Application for VA Benefits VA Form 22 - 1990 online. Apply online now


You can also apply by mail, in person, or with the help of a trained professional. Learn more about other ways to apply


Ask your school or training program to certify your enrollment


The certifying official may be someone in your school's financial aid, Veterans affairs, registrar, admissions, or counseling office. For on - the - job training or an apprenticeship , the official may be someone in your school's training, finance, or human resources office.


Note: You'll then need to verify your enrollment at the end of each month to keep receiving payments. You can verify your enrollment online through our Web Automated Verification system called " WAVE " or by phone by calling 877 - 823 - 2378. Verify your enrollment online


How can I use my MGIB-AD education benefits?


You can use your GI Bill benefits in many ways to advance your education and training. Find out how to use your GI Bill benefits


In some cases , we may help you pay for : Remedial courses classes some students must take to build up their basic skills in math, reading, or English before they can take regular college courses Deficiency courses classes some students must take in order to be admitted to a certain college Refresher courses brief courses that help people review and improve their knowledge in a certain subject area


See current payment rates


Can I qualify for more than one VA education benefit?


Yes. You may qualify for more than one education benefit. If you re eligible for more than one , you ll need to decide which to receive. You can t receive benefits under more than one program at a time.


We can help you make this decision. Call us at 888-GI - BILL-1 888 - 442 - 4551 , Monday through Friday , 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET. If you have hearing loss , call TTY : 711.


View your VA payment history


Find out how to view your VA payment history online.


You ll need to sign in to eBenefits to view your payment history.


To use this feature , you'll need a Premium DS Logon account. Your My HealtheVet or ID.me credentials won t work on the eBenefits website. Go to eBenefits to sign in, register, or upgrade your DS Logon account to Premium. Go to eBenefits to view payments


What VA payment information can I view when I sign in?


If you re a Veteran , you ll see a history of your past VA payments for : Disability compensation Pension benefits Education benefits


If you re the survivor of a Veteran or service member , you ll see a history of your past VA payments for : Survivors pension benefits Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Chapter 35 benefits Dependency and Indemnity Compensation DIC


When can I expect my first disability compensation payment?


If your decision notice shows at least a 10% disability rating , you ll get your first payment within 15 days.


If you don t get a payment within 15 days , please call the Veterans Help Line at 800 - 827 - 1000 TTY : 800 - 829 - 4833. We re here Monday through Friday , 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET.


What should I do if I need to change my direct deposit or contact information?


Change your information online , or Contact your nearest VA regional benefit office or eligibility office


You can sign in to VA.gov and change your address and other contact information in your VA.gov profile. This will update your information across disability compensation, pension benefits, claims and appeals, Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment VR&E, and VA health care. Find out how to change your address on file with VA


If you have a disability rating of 30% or higher , you may be able to add eligible dependents to your VA disability compensation to get a higher payment also called a benefit rate. Find out how to add eligible dependents


If your disability gets worse , you can file a claim for an increase in benefits. File for a VA disability increase


Board hearings with a Veterans Law Judge


The process for Board hearings has changed


If you're appealing a VA decision under the new process , keep reading below to learn how to request and prepare for a hearing. You'll follow the new process if you're : Appealing a VA decision you received on or after February 19 , 2019 Participating in the Rapid Appeals Modernization Program Opting into the new process using VA Form 10182


If you re using VA Form 9 to appeal a VA decision you received before February 19 , 2019,go to the Board of Veterans' Appeals BVA Hearing page


Why should I consider requesting a Board hearing?


You can request a video conference hearing if you want to provide testimony to a judge about your appeal. The hearing will be transcribed and added to your appeal file.


Am I required to have a Board hearing?


You aren t required to have a hearing. A Board hearing is always optional.


Learn more about Board hearings


Request a Board hearing Prepare for your Board hearing Find out what to expect at your Board hearing Reschedule or withdraw your Board hearing request


Request a Board hearing


How will I know when my hearing is scheduled?


When you fill out the Decision Review Request: Board Appeal VA Form 10182, select block 11c, Hearing with a Veterans Law Judge. " Download VA Form 10182 PDF Learn more about requesting a Board Appeal


The Board of Veterans Appeals schedules hearings in docket order the order in which they receive requests. You ll get a notice in the mail at least 30 days before your hearing is scheduled. It will let you know the date and time of the hearing and where it s located.


Prepare for your Board hearing


Who can help me prepare for my hearing?


Yes , you can bring new and relevant evidence to your hearing to share with the judge. You also have 90 days after the day of your hearing to submit new evidence for the judge s review. Please don t submit new evidence prior to your hearing.


A representative who s trained in the appeals process can help you prepare for your hearing and for the conversation with the judge. Your representative must be a VA - accredited lawyer, claims agent, or someone from a Veterans Service Organization VSO.


Get help preparing for your hearing


Find out what to expect at your Board hearing


What will happen at my hearing?


To start , the judge will swear you in, asking you to take an oath that you ll tell the truth during the hearing.


You ll then : Tell the judge why you think you qualify for the VA benefits in your appeal Answer any questions the judge has about your appeal Share any new evidence with the judge


Hearings usually last 30 minutes.


When will the judge make a decision on my appeal?


Your hearing will be transcribed and added to your appeal file. You ll be asked if you d like a copy of the transcript for your personal records. The judge will review the hearing and the other evidence in your appeal file before making a decision.


When the 90-day time period for submitting new evidence closes , your case will be placed on the docket for a decision by a judge. If you don t have new evidence to submit , you can waive the 90-day time period that s automatically added to your appeal. Some Veterans Service Organizations will ask for time to make additional arguments in support of your case, so contact your representative first if you re thinking of waiving this time period.


Reschedule or withdraw your Board hearing request


What if I need to reschedule my hearing?


You ll need to send a written request to the Board of Veterans Appeals providing good cause to reschedule your hearing at least 2 weeks before your hearing. Include your name, the VA file number for your appeal, and the reason why you need a new hearing date. Send your written request to the Board. Use the address or fax number listed below


If your hearing is less than 2 weeks away , you ll need to file a motion explaining why you need to reschedule.


Examples of good cause for rescheduling would include if you, your representative, or a witness are sick or you had trouble getting records. A judge will review your request , and you ll receive a notice in the mail when the judge decides if the hearing can be rescheduled.


Will I lose my place in line if I reschedule my hearing?


You won t lose your place in line. The Board of Veterans Appeals schedules hearings in docket order the order in which they receive requests. You ll keep the same docket date , and your hearing will be rescheduled to the earliest date possible.


What if I need to withdraw my hearing?


If you change your mind about having a hearing , you can write to the Board to withdraw cancel your hearing request. This won t speed up your appeal unless you also switch to the Direct Review appeal option, which can only be done at certain times.


If you switch to a different appeal option , you ll keep the same docket date and your appeal will be decided at the same time as other appeals with the same date. However , the time it takes to get a decision is different on each docket.


If you need to withdraw your hearing request , you or your representative should send a written request at least 2 weeks before your hearing. Include your name, the VA file number for your appeal, and the reason you re withdrawing the appeal. You still have the option to submit new evidence, as long as you send it to the Board within 90 days of withdrawing your hearing request. Send your written request to the Board using the address or fax number listed below.


Where do I send the Board a written request or new evidence?


You can mail or fax a written request to reschedule or withdraw your Board hearing. You can also submit new evidence for the judge to review within 90 days of the day of your hearing.


Fax your request to 844 - 678 - 8979.


Add dependents to your VA disability benefits


Find out how to add a dependent spouse, child, and/or parent to your VA disability benefits for additional compensation.


Am I eligible for additional VA disability compensation for my dependent(s)?


You may be eligible for additional disability compensation for a spouse, child, and/or parent if you meet both of the requirements listed below.


Both of these must be true. You: Are eligible for VA disability compensation , and Have a combined disability rating of at least 30 %


Adding a dependent may make you eligible to receive a higher compensation payment also called a benefit rate.


Who does VA consider a dependent?


A dependent is : A spouse Note: we recognize same - sex and common - law marriages A parent , if you re directly caring for them and their income and net worth are below a certain amount who meets one of the eligibility requirements listed below An unmarried child including an adopted child or stepchild


To be considered a dependent , one of these must be true of an unmarried child. They: Are under 18 years old , or Are between the ages of 18 and 23 years old and enrolled in school full time , or Became permanently disabled before they turned 18


When should I add a dependent to my benefits?


This depends on where you are in the process of filing for disability compensation.


If you haven t yet filed a claim for disability compensation


You can file a claim for additional compensation for a dependent at the same time as you file your original claim for disability compensation.


If you receive a combined disability rating of at least 30% , we ll automatically consider your eligibility for additional compensation for your dependent.


If you have one or more dependents, but you didn t claim them when you originally filed for disability compensation


If you have a combined disability rating of at least 30% , you can file a claim for additional disability compensation now.


If something changes in your family status after you received a combined disability rating of at least 30%


You can file a claim for additional disability compensation whenever you add a dependent.


You can add a dependent if : You get married You have or adopt a child Your child is between 18 and 23 years old and enrolled in school full time We determine that your child, who is at least 18 years old, became permanently disabled before turning 18 You become the caregiver for a parent whose income and net worth is below a certain amount


How do I add a dependent to my benefits?


To file a claim for additional disability compensation for a child or spouse


You can file a claim for additional compensation for a child or spouse online right now through our eBenefits website.


Note: You may need to provide more information or forms along with your claim.


Go to eBenefits to add a dependent child or spouse


If you re claiming your child who became permanently disabled before they turned 18 , you ll need to turn in all private medical records relating to the child s disabilities with your application.


If your dependent is a child who s between 18 and 23 years old and attending school full time , you ll also need to submit a Request for Approval of School Attendance VA Form 21 - 674 with your application.


Download VA Form 21 - 674 PDF


To file a claim for additional disability compensation for a dependent parent


You ll need to fill out and submit a Statement of Dependency of Parent VA Form 21P-509 by mail or fax. Download VA Form 21P-509 PDF


Please send all correspondence related to compensation claims to this address :


Department of Veterans Affairs Evidence Intake Center PO Box 4444 Janesville , WI 53547 - 4444


Or fax it to :


844 - 531 - 7817 if you live in the U.S. , if you live outside of the U.S. or + 1 - 248 - 524 - 4260


You can work with an accredited Veterans Service Officer VSO. We trust these professionals because they re trained and certified in the VA claims and appeals process. A VSO can answer your questions or even file your claim for you. Get help filing your claim


More questions about adding a dependent to your VA disability compensation


Yes , but we encourage you to file online. The online process is simple , and you can upload your supporting documents along with your claim.


When you file your claim online , we recognize the day you start the online claim process as the date VA received your claim. This means that if we decide you re eligible for additional disability compensation, we ll pay you back to this date.


If you can t, or don t want to file online , you can file a claim for additional disability compensation by mail or fax using the forms below :


For a spouse or a child under 18 years of age , you ll need to fill out a Declaration of Status of Dependents VA Form 21 - 686c. Download VA Form 21 - 686c PDF


For a child who s between 18 and 23 years old and attending school full time , you ll need to fill out both VA Form 21 - 686c and a Request for Approval of School Attendance VA Form 21 - 674. Download VA Form 21 - 686c PDF Download VA Form 21 - 674 PDF


For a dependent parent , you ll need to fill out a Statement of Dependency of Parent VA Form 21P-509. Download VA Form 21P-509 PDF


Mail your completed form to :


Or fax them to :


You can file your claim again online for a faster decision. If we award you additional disability compensation , we ll give you back pay from the original date we received your paper form.


We may pay you back to the date of your marriage or the birth or adoption of your child if you meet all of the requirements listed below.


All of these must be true. You: Had already received a combined disability rating of at least 30% at the time of the marriage, birth, or adoption , and File your claim for additional disability compensation for the dependent within a year of the marriage, birth, or adoption, and Respond within a year to our request for any more information or evidence needed to confirm your claim


If it s been more than one year since you got married or had or adopted a child , we may not pay you back to the date of the marriage, birth, or adoption. Instead , we may pay you back only to the date we received your claim for additional disability for the dependent or, in some cases, up to a year before before this date.


We ll begin paying you within 2 weeks after we approve your claim.


You can check this through your eBenefits account.


Sign in to your account.


Then click the Dependents link under the My Profile section.


If you see your dependent listed there , you should be eligible for additional compensation for them. If they re not listed , you should file a claim for the additional benefit. Go to eBenefits


Questions about adding or removing certain kinds of dependents


If you and your spouse are both Veterans with a combined disability rating of at least 30% , you can both receive additional disability compensation for each other and for your children.


You should know: It ll take us longer to process your claim if your spouse is also a Veteran. But if you file your claim online, and we decide you re eligible for additional disability compensation for your dependent , we ll pay you back to the date you started the online claim process.


You can submit a request through eBenefits asking us to stop paying additional disability compensation for a spouse or child. We ll need more time to process a request that involves a child than a request that involves a spouse , but the online process is still much faster than submitting a paper request.


If you get divorced , you ll want to notify us right away. You don t need to send or upload supporting documents to eBenefits in this case.


This will help to make sure we don t continue paying you additional disability compensation for your former spouse and, if applicable, stepchildren after the divorce. If we continue paying you benefits that you re not eligible for , we may withhold money from future payments until you ve paid us back. Go to eBenefits


You ll need to update your child s school information in eBenefits.


Click Add or Remove Dependents you ll find it under the Apply section on the homepage.


Then select Update Dependents. Go to eBenefits


No. We ll track your child s age based on the date of birth you give us when you submit your claim. When your child turns 18 , we ll stop paying additional disability compensation for them unless you let us know they re enrolled in school full time.


VA claim exam (C&P exam)


After you file your disability benefits claim , we may ask you to have a claim exam also known as a compensation and pension, or C&P, exam. Get answers to commonly asked questions about the VA claim exam below.


Be sure not to miss your scheduled exam.


If you miss your exam , we may not be able to reschedule you right away , and your claim may be delayed while you wait for a new appointment. Or we may need to rate your claim as - is. This means we ll base our decision about your disability benefits only on the evidence we have in your file, which may not be enough.


Why might I need a VA claim exam?


This exam will help us rate your disability. Your rating will be based on how severe your disability is and will affect how much disability compensation you ll receive. Compensation may include things like monthly payments and enrollment in the VA health care program.


Does everyone who files a claim need to have a VA claim exam?


No. We ll ask you to have a claim exam only if we need more information to decide your claim.


If you have enough medical evidence in your file to support your claim , we won t ask you to have a claim exam. Medical evidence may include doctor and hospital reports, test results, and other documents.


How to schedule your VA claim exam


The staff at your local VA medical center or a local doctor s office that we partner with will contact you. They ll either send you a letter by mail with the date and time of your exam, or call you to find a time that works for you.


Make sure both the VA regional office and the VA medical center nearest you have your up - to - date address, phone number, and email address so you get your exam notice in time.


Call the number provided right away to confirm the time and location of your exam. It s important not to miss your scheduled exam , so you ll want to double check that you have the right place and time.


If you can t make it to your appointment , let us know right away. You can most likely reschedule , but this may delay your claim.


To reschedule your appointment : Call 800 - 827 - 1000 , or Go to your nearest VA regional benefit office. Find a VA regional benefit office near you


What to expect at your VA claim exam


You don t need to bring anything to your exam. If you have any new non - VA medical records like records from a recent surgery or illness , please be sure to submit them before your appointment. The health care provider can t review new information during the exam.


If you have children , you ll need to plan ahead for childcare during your exam. Because you and the doctor may discuss sensitive topics , children shouldn t be in the room with you.


On the day of the exam , you ll want to wear comfortable clothes so you can move freely while the doctor exams you.


A VA claim exam isn t like a normal medical exam or other VA health care visits. The doctor won t treat you for any illness or injury, give you referrals to other health care providers, or prescribe medicine. That s because the purpose of the exam is to gather information that will help us make a decision on your claim. Each exam is different, depending on the information we need.


During your exam , the doctor may do any or all of these things : Review your claim file with you Ask you questions based on the medical records in your claim file. These may include questions from the Disability Benefits Questionnaire for each service - connected condition you re claiming. Take a look at the Disability Benefits Questionnaires DBQs Perform a basic physical exam Ask you to get other tests like X - rays or blood work if needed


If you have any questions about what s happening during your exam , feel free to ask the doctor. But keep in mind that the doctor s job is to examine you, not to make any decisions about your claim. They won t be able to answer questions about the claims process.


After your exam , the doctor will write up a report and send it to a VA claims processor to be added to your claim file.


Your exam may be very short , or it may last an hour or more. It all depends on the conditions you ve claimed and whether we need more information to make a decision.


For example , the required questions the doctor asks about a knee injury may take only a few minutes. But the questions for a more complex illness or injury could take much longer. A mental health evaluation usually lasts 2 to 4 hours.


It s important to remember that your in - person visit is only one part of the claim review process. The doctor will also spend time outside the exam carefully reviewing your records.


Either a VA doctor or a non - VA doctor who we ve contracted with will do the exam. You can also have your own doctor examine you and fill out the necessary forms. Get instructions for your doctor to fill out VA claim exam forms


No. The doctor will give the exam results to our VA claims processors. Our claims processors will decide your claim based on these results, plus your other medical and military records.


If you have questions about the claims process , call your nearest VA regional benefit office. Find contact information for your nearest VA regional benefit office


If you miss your claim exam , contact us right away to let us know why you didn t make it. We can help you figure out what to do next.


If you have what we consider to be a good reason for missing your exam called good cause , we ll work with you to reschedule your exam. Examples of good cause might be an illness or the death of someone in your immediate family.


Find contact information for your nearest VA regional benefit office


After your VA claim exam


We ll review all the evidence in your file, assign your disability rating, and send you a decision notice a letter letting you know your disability rating.


Each claim is different , but it usually takes us about 3 to 4 months to process a claim from start to finish. The processing time for your claim depends on how complex your claim is and how many conditions you ve claimed.


See our most recent estimate for the average number of days to complete a claim


Sign in to track your claim


Yes. To get a copy of the final report from your exam , you can : Contact your nearest VA regional benefit office , or Call us at 800 - 827 - 1000 and request an appointment to view your file


Our VA claims processors will review : you ve given us The medical records The report from the doctor who handled your claim exam, and the results of any ordered medical tests Statements from you and others about your claim Your military medical and personnel records


We may ask you to have a claim exam if you appeal your disability benefits decision. Learn more about appealing a decision


What if I have more questions about my exam?


Download helpful PDFs


VA claim exam fact sheet A quick guide on the claim exam process , what you can expect during and after your exam and


to help make the claim exam process easier and less stressful VA claim exam tips Tips


VA claim exam FAQs Answers to frequently asked questions about the claim exam process


Step - by - step VA claim process A quick, step - by - step overview of the claim process and exam


Mental health exam fact sheet Information about how we evaluate mental health claims for compensation , why it s important to go to your exam and


Review exams fact sheet Information about why and when we request review exams, what will happen at the exam, and why it s important to go to your exam


Watch informational videos


You can also watch our VA claim exams video series. This series offers videos on how to prepare for your VA claim exam, how to use disability benefits questionnaires DBQs, and what to expect at claim exams for the most common disability claims.


View the VA claim exams video series


More information about what happens after you file your claim


Check claim and appeal statusTrack the status of your disability claims and appeals.


Appeals processFind out what to do if you disagree with your disability rating decision.


Eligibility for VA Vocational Rehab and Employment


Review VA Vocational Rehab and Employment VR&E eligibility requirements for Veterans and active - duty service members. If you have a disability that was caused or made worse by your active - duty service and that limits your ability to work or prevents you from working , you may be able to get employment support or services to help you live as independently as possible.


If I m a Veteran, am I eligible for Vocational Rehab and Employment?


You may be eligible for VR&E benefits and services if you re a Veteran , and you meet all of the requirements listed below.


All of these must be true. You: Didn t receive a dishonorable discharge , and Have a service - connected disability rating of at least 10% from VA , and Apply for VR&E services


Basic period of eligibility


Your basic period of eligibility ends 12 years from the date you received notice of your : Date of separation from active military service , or First VA service - connected disability rating


Please note: The basic period of eligibility may be extended if a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor VRC finds that you have a serious employment handicap SEH. Having an employment handicap means your service - connected disability limits your ability to prepare for, obtain, and maintain suitable employment a job that doesn t make your disability worse, is stable, and matches your abilities, aptitudes, and interests.


If I m still on active duty, am I eligible for Vocational Rehab and Employment?


You may be eligible for VR&E benefits and services if you re a service member and you meet at least one of the requirements listed below.


At least one of these must be true. You: Have a 20% or higher pre - discharge disability rating memorandum rating and will soon leave the military , or Are 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. Learn more about accessing VR&E services through IDES


Please note: Severely injured active - duty service members can automatically receive VR&E benefits before VA issues a disability rating, because of Sec. 1631 of the National Defense Authorization Act PL 110 - 181.


Learn more about how to apply for VR&E Note : You can apply even if you re a service member without a disability rating yet.


What kind of VR&E services can I get?


Depending on your needs and goals , services may include : to determine your abilities, skills, and interests for employment A complete evaluation Vocational counseling and rehabilitation planning for employment services Employment services such as job training, resume development, and other work - readiness support Help finding and keeping a job, including the use of special employer incentives and job accommodations On - the - job training OJT, apprenticeships, and non - paid work experiences Post - secondary training at a college, vocational, technical, or business school Supportive rehabilitation services including case management, counseling, and medical referrals if you re unable to work due to the severity of your disabilities Independent living services


If I m eligible for GI Bill benefits, can I get paid the Post-9/11 GI Bill subsistence rate for my VR&E program?


If you re participating in a VR&E program and also qualify for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits , you can choose to get paid the GI Bill subsistence rate instead of the Chapter 31 subsistence allowance rate. In most cases the GI Bill rate is higher.


You ll need to officially choose the GI Bill subsistence rate. Your VRC can help you with this. Contact your VRC for more information View the current Chapter 31 subsistence allowance rates View the current Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit rates


We also offer : VR&E employment coordinators located at our VA regional offices and many of our out - based locations who can help you access the employment services available to you. Find an employment coordinator near you Counselors to help you transition from military to college life. Learn about VetSuccess on Campus Links to more resources outside VA that can help you in your job search. See our list of external resources If you re participating in a VR&E employment program and lost your housing because of a natural or other disaster , you may qualify for 2 more months of the Employment Adjustment Allowance. Contact your VRC for more information


Watch these videos to learn more about VR&E: VR&E Chapter 31 servicesVR&E s 5 tracks to employment


More information about VR&E benefits and services


Vocational Rehab programs for service members and VeteransExplore VR&E support - and - services tracks for help learning new skills, finding a new job, starting a business, getting educational counseling, or returning to your former job.


How to apply for VA Vocational Rehab and EmploymentFind out how to apply for VR&E benefits and services as a service member or Veteran.


Dependent family membersIf you're the dependent family member of a service member or Veteran with a service - connected disability, find out if you may be eligible for certain counseling services, training, and education benefits.


Get a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)


Learn how to get a Veteran Health Identification Card VHIC. Find out what to do if your card is lost or stolen and what to do with any old ID cards you may have used for VA health care in the past.


What's a Veteran Health Identification Card, and how will I use it?


When you re enrolled in VA health care , you ll use your Veteran Health Identification Card VHIC to check in to your appointments at VA medical centers. This secure ID card keeps your personal information safe while giving us the information we need to easily access your VA health record.


You may also use this card to get discounts offered to Veterans at many stores, businesses, and restaurants. If you have a VHIC , you don t need to request another type of photo ID card to prove you re a Veteran or to get retail or business discounts.


Note: You can t use your VHIC as a credit card or insurance card. It doesn't pay copays or authorize care at non - VA health facilities.


How do I get my VHIC?


First , you ll need to be enrolled in VA health care. If you re not already enrolled , find out how to apply for VA health care.


After you receive your VA health care welcome call


Contact your nearest VA medical center and ask to speak with the enrollment coordinator. Ask the coordinator to help you arrange to get your picture taken for your new Veteran Health Identification Card.


You can also ask for help with getting your picture taken at your next VA health care appointment.


When you get your picture taken


You ll need to show a current form of primary identification.


Please bring your current, unexpired : State - issued driver s license , or U.S. passport or passport card , or Other government ID issued by a federal, state, or local government agency


Note: This ID must show your picture and date of birth. If it doesn t also show your address , you ll need to bring a separate document to confirm your address. This may include your electric bill, cable bill, voter registration card, or another mailed document.


After we take your picture


We ll process your VHIC and send it to you by mail. You should receive your card within 10 days.


What should I do if I don t receive my VHIC in the mail?


If it s been more than 10 days since you ve had your picture taken and you haven t received your card , please call the VA medical center where you had your picture taken. Or call us at 877 - 222 - 8387. We re here Monday through Friday , 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET. If you have hearing loss , call TTY : 711.


What should I do if my VHIC is lost or stolen?


You can request a replacement card at the VA medical center where you had your picture taken. You ll need to bring your driver s license, passport, or other government ID or be able to answer a series of challenge questions so we can verify your identity before we give you a new card.


If you ve changed your medical center since getting your original card , you can contact the medical center where you currently receive care. Or , call us at 877 - 222 - 8387, Monday through Friday , 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET. Our staff will need to verify your identity with a series of challenge questions before we can send a new card.


What should I do with my old Veterans identification card?


Please destroy it by cutting it up or shredding it. We want all Veterans who are enrolled in VA health care to have the new VHIC. This new card offers even more security to protect your personal information.


It also offers other helpful new features. These include " VA " printed in braille to help Veterans with low vision to quickly recognize the card as well as a display of your latest branch of service emblem and a list of special awards you may have received.


Transfer your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits


Find out if you can transfer any of your unused Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to your spouse or dependent children.


Note : The Department of Defense DoD decides whether you can transfer GI Bill benefits to your family.


Can I transfer benefits?


You can transfer education benefits if you re on active duty or in the Selected Reserve and you meet the requirements listed below.


At least one of these must be true : You have completed at least 6 years of service on the date your request is approved and you agree to add 4 more years of service , or You have completed at least 10 years of service on the date your request is approved, can t commit to add 4 more years of service because of either a policy or statute, but agree to serve for the maximum amount of time allowed


And this must also be true :


The person getting benefits has enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System DEERS.


Qualified dependents


What benefits can my qualified dependents get?


If the DoD approves the Transfer of Entitlement TOE , your spouse or dependent children can apply for up to 36 months of benefits, and may be able to get money for : Tuition Housing Books and supplies


When can they use the transferred benefits?


These conditions apply to family members using transferred benefits :


Spouses


May use the benefit right away May use the benefit while you re on active duty or after you ve separated from service Don t qualify for the monthly housing allowance while you re on active duty May use the benefit for up to 15 years after your separation from active duty


Children


May start to use the benefit only after you ve finished at least 10 years of service May use the benefit while you re on active duty or after you ve separated from service May not use the benefit until they ve gotten a high school diploma or equivalency certificate , or have reached 18 years of age Qualify for the monthly housing allowance even when you re on active duty Don t have to use the benefit within 15 years after your separation from active duty , but can t use the benefit after they ve turned 26 years old.


Your dependents may still qualify even if a child marries or you and your spouse divorce. However , service members and Veterans can revoke cancel or change a TOE at any time. If you want to totally revoke transferred benefits for a dependent and you re still in the service , please turn in another transfer request for the dependent through milConnect. If a dependent s transfer eligibility ability to get a TOE has been totally revoked , you can t transfer benefits again to that dependent.


How do I transfer the benefit?


While you re still on active duty , you ll request to transfer, change, or revoke a Transfer of Entitlement TOE through milConnect. You can t apply for a TOE through us. Transfer , change , or revoke a TOE


If the DoD approves the TOE , your family members may apply for benefits. Apply online now , or Apply by mail. Fill out and mail an Application for Family Member to Use Transferred Benefits VA Form 22 - 1990E to the nearest VA regional benefit office. Download VA Form 22 - 1990E PDF Find your nearest VA regional benefit office


Once you leave active duty , you can still provide a future effective date for when the TOE can be used, change the number of months transferred, or revoke the TOE by submitting a written request to VA through milConnect.


DoD website for information on transferring benefits Fact sheet on transferring Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits PDF To find out if you qualify, the status of your transfer request, and how to use the TEB Portlet for service - specific questions , please contact the right career counselor or personnel center from this list : Army Active - Duty Officer Email Army Active - Duty Enlisted Email Army National Guard Email Army Reserve Enlisted and Officer Email Navy Active - Duty Personnel 866-U - ASK - NPC 866 - 827 - 5672 or DSN 882 - 5672 Navy Reserve 800 - 621 - 8853 , Fax : 757 - 444 - 7597/7598 Email Marine Corps Active - Duty Officer Email Marine Corps Active - Duty Enlisted Email Marine Corps Reserve Email Air Force Active Duty 800 - 525 - 0102 or 210 - 565 - 5000 or DSN 665 - 5000 Air National Guard Contact unit retention manager Air Force Reserve Email Coast Guard Active Duty Email Coast Guard Reserve Email NOAA Email or 301 - 713 - 7728 PHS Email or 240 - 453 - 6130


Access your VA life insurance policy online


If you have VA life insurance , the easiest way to manage your policy is online. You can use your online portal to :


Check your policy s status to make sure it s up to date Pay your premium the amount you ll pay each month to keep your coverage Find out about your plan and renewal options. These will depend on which type of plan you have. Update your beneficiary the person you ve picked to get the money from your policy if you die. You ll want to review your beneficiary information at least once a year to make sure the name and contact information is still correct. You ll also need to review the information and make any changes if you get divorced, have a child, or go through other big life changes.


How do I access my policy?


If you have a VA life insurance policy with a file number that starts with a V, RH, J, RS, K, or W or if you d like to apply for service - disabled life insurance life insurance for Veterans who have become disabled as a result of serving in the military, access your policy online through VA.Find your policy through VA


If you have a Veterans Group Life Insurance VGLI policy with a VGLI control number , access your policy online through the Office of Servicemembers Group Life Insurance at Prudential Insurance Company of America. Prudential works with us to provide SGLI and VGLI benefits to service members and Veterans. Find your policy through Prudential Insurance Company of America


VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)


The VA Dental Insurance Program VADIP offers discounted private dental insurance for Veterans and family members who meet certain requirements. Find out if you're eligible, and how to enroll in a plan that meets your needs and budget.


Am I eligible for the VA Dental Insurance Program?


You may be eligible for VADIP if either of the below descriptions are true for you.


One of these must be true. You're: A Veteran who's enrolled in VA health care , or The current or surviving spouse or dependent child of a Veteran or service member , and you're enrolled in the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the VA CHAMPVA Note : Insurance carriers may offer separate coverage options for dependents who aren't CHAMPVA beneficiaries.


VADIP provides coverage throughout the United States and its territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.


About VA Dental Insurance Program benefits and how to enroll


Why might I want to buy private dental insurance through VADIP as a Veteran?


While some Veterans enrolled in VA health care are eligible for free dental care from our providers , many are not. Others may be eligible for free care for some, but not all, of their dental needs.


If you're not eligible for free VA dental care , VADIP can help you buy private dental insurance at a reduced cost.


If you're eligible for free VA care for some of your dental needs , you can buy a VADIP plan if you want added dental insurance. Signing up for VADIP won t affect your ability to get free VA dental care.


What types of dental care does VADIP cover, and how much will it cost?


VADIP plans cover many common dental procedures. These may include : Diagnostic services Preventive dental care to manage oral health problems and restore function called endodontic or restorative services Root canals and other services Dental surgery Emergency dental care


The costs for your coverage will depend on the insurance company and plan you choose.


Based on your plan , you'll pay : The full insurance premium for each individual on your plan Any required copays when you get care


Read coverage details and compare VADIP plans and premium rates from: Delta DentalMetLife


How do I enroll in a VADIP plan?


Once you've chosen a Delta Dental or MetLife VADIP plan , you can enroll online at :


Delta Dental orMetLife


After you enroll , you can also use your insurance provider's website to manage your plan and benefits online.


I enrolled in the VADIP pilot program. Do I need to enroll again?


Yes. The VADIP pilot program ran from 2013 to 2017.


If you were covered during that time , you ll need to enroll again to get new coverage. You should know that some of the plan options and fees may have changed.


How long can I keep this dental insurance?


At this time , we're allowed by law to continue this program until December 31 , 2021. Please check back for more information in the future.


For questions about Delta Dental , call 855 - 370 - 3303.


For questions about MetLife , call 888 - 310 - 1681.


Fry Scholarships


Learn about the the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship Fry Scholarship, a scholarship for children and dependents of Veterans. If your parent or spouse was an active - duty service member who died in the line of duty on or after September 11 , 2001 , you may qualify for this benefit. Find out if you re eligible for education benefits through this scholarship.


Am I eligible for Fry Scholarship benefits?


You may be able to get benefits under the Fry Scholarship if you re the child or surviving spouse of an active - duty service member who died in the line of duty on or after September 11 , 2001.


As the child of a service member


You can be married or unmarried. If you turned 18 or graduated from high school before January 1 , 2013 , you can get a Fry Scholarship until you re 33 years old. If you turn 18 or graduate from high school after January 1 , 2013 , you can get a Fry Scholarship at any age over 18 or after you graduate whichever comes first. If your parent died in the line of duty before August 1 , 2011 , you may qualify for both the Fry Scholarship and the Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance DEA program. But you can use only one program at a time. We cap combined benefits at 81 months of full - time training. Read about the DEA program If you re receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation DIC , you ll need to give up those payments when you start to use the Fry Scholarship. Read about DIC


As the spouse of a service member


If you remarry , you ll no longer be eligible for the Fry Scholarship. You can still get Dependency and Indemnity Compensation DIC payments while using the Fry Scholarship. Read about DIC


You may be able to get up to 36 months of benefits, including : Money for tuition full in - state tuition costs at public schools and up to $22,805.34 per year for training at private or out - of - state schools Money for housing Money for books and supplies


How do I get a Fry Scholarship?


The GI Bill Comparison Tool can help you pick a school. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool You should contact your school s certifying official to make sure your program is approved for VA benefits.


Apply online now , or Fill out a Dependents Application for VA Education Benefits VA Form 22 - 5490 and send it to the VA regional benefit office where you want to go to school. Download VA Form 22 - 5490 PDF Find a VA regional benefit office If you aren t legally an adult , your parent or guardian must sign the application. If you ve already started your educational program , ask a certifying official from your school or your employer to fill out a VA Enrollment Certification VA Form 22 - 1999. They ll need to submit it online using VA Online Certification VA - ONCE. Download VA Form 22 - 1999 PDF


Choose your program


If you qualify for both the Fry Scholarship and DEA , you ll need to choose which program you want to use. Once you choose , you can t change your mind.


Exception : If your parent died in the line of duty before August 1 , 2011 , you can use both the Fry Scholarship and DEA. You can get up to 81 months of full - time training , but you can use only one program at a time. Read about the DEA program


Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI)


Servicemembers Group Life Insurance SGLI offers low - cost term coverage to eligible service members. If you re a service member who meets certain criteria , we ll automatically sign you up. Find out if you re eligible and learn how to manage your SGLI coverage.


Am I eligible for SGLI?


You may be able to get full - time SGLI coverage if any of the descriptions below are true for you.


At least one of these must be true. You re: An active - duty member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard , or A commissioned member of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NOAA or the U.S. Public Health Service USPHS , or A cadet or midshipman of the U.S. military academies , or A member, cadet, or midshipman of the Reserve Officers Training Corps ROTC engaged in authorized training and practice cruises , or A member of the Ready Reserve or National Guard, assigned to a unit, and scheduled to perform at least 12 periods of inactive training per year , or A volunteer in an Individual Ready Reserve IRR mobilization category


If you re in nonpay status with the Ready Reserve or National Guard


You may be able to get full - time SGLI coverage if you meet both of the requirements below.


Both of these must be true. You re: Scheduled for 12 periods of inactive training for the year, and Drilling for points rather than pay


Note: You must pay your premiums directly.


Service members


Accessing and managing SGLI while you re serving


What kind of life insurance benefits can I get with SGLI?


You can get : Coverage up to the top limit of $400,000 in $50,000 increments 120 days of free coverage from the date you left the military Extension of free coverage for up to 2 years if you re totally disabled when you leave the military. See below for information on the SGLI - Disability Extension Part - time coverage if you re a Reserve member who doesn t qualify for full - time coverage


If you qualify for SGLI , we ll automatically sign you up through your service branch. See your unit s personnel office for more information.


Can I make changes to my benefits?


Yes. You can choose your level of coverage or even refuse coverage completely. You can also choose your beneficiaries the people you pick to get the money from your life insurance policy if you die and change them as needed.


How to change your beneficiaries or reduce, turn down, or restore your SGLI coverage