Applying for VA Benefits
 
One of the more difficult tasks for a returning veteran is applying for the many VA benefits. The unknown of "should I," "would I qualify," "how do I apply," or "where do I go for help" can be a frustrating experience. VA intends to ease those frustrations and facilitate your transition from active participation in armed conflict back to civilian life with some basic tips for applying for benefits.
 
Documents Needed for:
 
Non-Medical Benefits
A copy of your discharge certificate, or DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if available
Your VA claim number or Social Security number if receiving benefits under prior service
A copy of all marriage certificates and divorce decrees (if any)
A copy of each child's birth certificate (or adoption order)
A copy of your birth certificate if there are living parents dependent on you for support
A copy of any service medical records for disabilities you intend to claim
The most typical claim for benefits is for compensation for military service related injuries. Complete VA Form 21-526, Veterans Application for Compensation or Pension, (On-line version) (Print out version). Or, you may obtain a copy of the form from any VA Regional Office (list of regional offices).
 
Medical Benefits
A copy of your discharge certificate, or DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if available
In order to document your service in a theater of combat operations, it would be helpful if you brought any of the following:
A copy of your Leave and Earnings Statement showing receipt of Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay
Receipt of the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
Kosovo Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Southwest Asia Campaign Medal
Proof of exemption of federal tax status for Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay
Orders to a theater of combat operations
Complete VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits, online. Or, you may obtain the form by:
Calling VA's Health Benefits Service Center toll free number, 1-877-222-VETS(8387), Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM (Eastern Time)
Calling or visiting any VA health care facility or VA regional office. To find the facility nearest you, visit the VA Facilities web page.
 
Where to Get Help
This web site
Contact VA through on-line messaging.This link gives you access to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's), a series of "800" telephone points of contact, mailing addresses for VA offices, and access to a secure, web based messaging program where you can leave questions, by subject matter that are not answered by the FAQ's.
Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents. An informative benefits pamphlet in PDF format.
Health Benefits Service Center. Call toll free 1-877-222-VETS(8387)
Visit VA's health eligibility web site for questions about medical benefits and application procedures.
VA benefits counselors can answer questions about benefits eligibility and application procedures. Contact the nearest VA regional office at 1-800-827-1000 from any location in the United States and Puerto Rico. VA facilities also are listed in the federal government section "Blue Pages" of telephone directories under "Veterans Affairs".
State, local and National Veteran Service Organization representatives are also available to assist you with benefits counseling and claims processing. You may find lists of such representatives at http://www.va.gov/vso/
Mobilization Information and Resources Guide. A DOD web site containing multiple links to mobilization and resources information.