Getting Connected to Benefits & Services for Veterans
Return to the
Veteran Assistance Guide for more information.
After leaving the armed forces it is important to get familiar with the benefits and services that are available to you.
The first thing you will want to do is contact your local Veteran Service Officer (VSO). VSO's provide FREE assistance to veterans (and their dependents and survivors) when applying for benefits both at the federal and a state level. They also provide veterans with resources on permits, transportation, education and training, and employment options.
Another very important aspect of getting started is getting all information possible regarding health care. Veterans that served in the active military and are separated under any condition other than dishonorable can be qualified to receive health care benefits. While some veterans may qualify for cost-free health care services, others may be required to cover a co-pay. It is important to ensure that there is not a long gap in your health care coverage. The VA also provides programs for prescription coverage, crisis prevention, mental health, PTSD, and other specific healthcare programs. Check out the Health Benefits pages on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website for specific program options and details.
Make sure not to forget about registering for pension benefits. Find the assistance you and your families need by applying for supplemental income. This is a tax-free monetary benefit for low-income wartime veterans. There are pensions for both veterans and survivors, as well as other aid information. Your local Veteran Service Officer (VSO) can assist you with the process of applying for pension benefits and the specifics of eligibility.
If you are in need, make sure to take advantage of any disability compensation. If you are a veteran that is rated at 10% disabled or higher as a result of disease or injury incurred or aggravated during active military service you may be eligible for compensation. The amount of benefit will depend on the degree of your disability using a scale from 10-100%. There are other grants, and insurance possibilities, that are connected to disability compensation. It is important to know what is available to help overcome challenges you may face. 
Life Insurance is another important item to look into if you are not already covered. Make sure your family is protected by providing financial security. Veterans can convert their service members' group life insurance to veterans' group life insurance after exit from the military. It's never too soon to think about the future, so taking care of the transition in your coverage is important and time sensitive.
One of the benefits that often aren't thought of immediately is home loan benefits. VA home loans provide veterans with a home loan guaranty benefit and other housing-related programs. These loans can be customized to your situation, whether you are looking to buy, build, or retain. You can also work with your local bank, loan company, or credit union as they have specific knowledge about VA loans and their availability in your area.
Most benefits or compensation have specific eligibility requirements to review before applying. Get started today by taking advantage of the programs and benefits that you may be eligible for because of your service.
There are other locations throughout Illinois that offer specific assistance to veterans. You can find a location near you by using the Illinois workNet Service Locator.
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Source: The U.S Department of Veterans Affairs website was used to compile information in this article.
