VETERAN BENEFITS GUIDE
Everything you need to know about the benefits you've earned. Updated for 2025 with the latest rates, eligibility rules, and application guidance.
HOW TO ACCESS YOUR BENEFITS
A step-by-step guide to claiming what you've earned
Verify Service
Confirm you served a minimum active duty period (typically 24 months for most benefits)
Gather Records
Obtain your DD-214 (Certificate of Release), medical records, and service records
Determine Eligibility
Use VA.gov or contact a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) for a free eligibility review
File Your Claim
Submit your claim online at VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a VA Regional Office
Track Your Claim
Monitor your claim status at VA.gov and respond promptly to any requests for information
Disability Compensation
If you have a service-connected disability, you may receive monthly tax-free compensation. Ratings range from 0% to 100%, and payments scale with your rating and dependents.
Key Facts
- ✓100% disabled veteran receives $3,737.85/month (2025 rate)
- ✓Rates increase with number of dependents
- ✓Fully tax-exempt at the federal and most state levels
- ✓PACT Act expanded eligibility for toxic exposure veterans
Education Benefits
The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers 100% of public in-state tuition, a monthly housing allowance, and a books/supplies stipend. Montgomery GI Bill and Vocational Rehabilitation are also available.
Key Facts
- ✓Post-9/11 GI Bill: Up to $30,000+/year at private schools
- ✓Monthly housing allowance based on school ZIP code
- ✓$1,000/year books and supplies stipend
- ✓Yellow Ribbon Program for additional funding
VA Home Loan
The VA Home Loan Guaranty program helps veterans purchase, build, or improve a home with no down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI) requirement.
Key Facts
- ✓No down payment required for eligible veterans
- ✓No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- ✓Competitive interest rates below market average
- ✓No prepayment penalties
VA Healthcare
Eligible veterans receive world-class healthcare through 1,400+ VA facilities nationwide, including medical centers, outpatient clinics, and community-based facilities.
Key Facts
- ✓Priority groups determine co-pay requirements
- ✓Covers primary care, mental health, and specialists
- ✓Community Care Network for rural veterans
- ✓Telehealth services available nationwide
Veterans Pension
Wartime veterans with limited income and assets may qualify for the Veterans Pension benefit, which provides tax-free supplemental income. Aid & Attendance provides additional support.
Key Facts
- ✓For wartime veterans with limited income/assets
- ✓Aid & Attendance increases for those needing help
- ✓Survivor Benefit Plan (DIC) for surviving spouses
- ✓Not the same as military retirement pay
Life Insurance
Veterans can continue Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) as Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI) after separation, regardless of health status.
Key Facts
- ✓VGLI available up to $500,000 in coverage
- ✓No medical underwriting for timely applications
- ✓Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance (S-DVI)
- ✓Family SGLI for spouses and dependent children
GET FREE CLAIMS ASSISTANCE
Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) provide FREE help filing and appealing VA claims. You never pay out-of-pocket for accredited VSO assistance.