articles - VETERANS BENEFITS

THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS HAS MADE ITS COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS GUIDE AVAILABLE FOR FREE ON THE INTERNET

Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents.
http://www.va.gov/opa/fact/index.htm

This 100-page handbook describes benefits provided by the VA and an overview of programs and services for veterans provided by other federal agencies.

VA officials estimate most of America’s 25 million veterans qualify for at least some VA benefits, but many are unaware of their entitlements. This handbook includes a listing of toll-free numbers, World Wide Web information resources, and VA Facilities.

Most veterans are eligible for healthcare and burial benefits. Many are also eligible for home loans guarantees, educational assistance, vocational rehabilitation, life insurance, and compensation for service-connected disabilities.

This guide explains how to access many of these benefits on line. For instance, it provides a Web address and instructions for enrolling via the Internet into the VA healthcare system. The book describes in detail the priority for care and services available. Separate sections describe specialized services available to Gulf War veterans and those exposed to Agent Orange or radiation.

The Montgomery GI Bill and other education benefits are explained in depth. Burial benefits and employment services are also covered, as are rate charts for the various forms of compensation VA provides.

By providing it online at 'Feature Items and Information' the VA hopes to make the information available to more veterans.

PRINT EDITION ALSO AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

The book can be purchased through the Government Printing Office for $5.00 for U.S.-based customers and $6.25 for those overseas by calling toll-free (866) 512-1800.