Benefits.gov honors all military Veterans of the United States Armed Forces this Veterans Day. In recognition, we’re highlighting five types of benefits for Veterans.
You probably know that the government offers a variety of assistance for Veterans. What you might not know is that Benefits.gov houses information on over 66 different Veterans benefits, ranging from healthcare to home loans. We are here to help you find benefits that best fit your needs. Keep reading for an introduction to five types of Veteran benefits offered through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Basic Medical Benefits Package for Veterans
Every enrolled Veteran has access to the Basic Medical Benefits Package for Veterans. This program is available at all VA Medical Centers, and it includes:
- Preventive Care
- Primary and Specialty Care
- Diagnostic Services
- Inpatient and Outpatient Care Services
You may also be eligible for additional benefits, such as dental care. To find out if you or a loved one is eligible and how to apply, visit the VA’s Health Care Eligibility page. There you can also get help with filling out the application if needed.
Mental Health Services
Mental health is an important part of overall wellness. Mental health services are available for Veterans with a range of conditions and treatment programs.
Mental health services include treatment for:
- Substance Abuse Disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Military Sexual Trauma
- Serious Mental Illness
Generally, you must be under conditions other than dishonorable to receive VA benefits and services. For more mental health information and crisis resources, visit the VA’s Mental Health page.
Home Loan for Regular Purchase
Looking to buy a home? If you are a Veteran, Servicemember, Reservist, National Guard member or surviving spouse, you may be eligible for a VA-guaranteed home loan.
The VA’s Home Loan for Regular Purchase program guarantees a percentage of the loan, helping to obtain a no-down payment mortgage at a competitive interest rate. You can check your eligibility by taking the short questionnaire on the Home Loan for Regular Purchase benefit page or use the VA’s Home Loans website.
Post 9/11 GI Bill
The Post 9/11 GI Bill is an educational assistance program for Veterans that served after September 10, 2001. It provides up to 36 months of education benefits by helping to pay the cost of tuition, housing, textbooks, and school supplies.
The VA pays 100% of tuition and fees for public in-state schools for those who qualify for this benefit. Veterans who are eligible for this benefit may also receive up to $1,000 per year for books and supplies. For more information, visit the VA Education and Training page.
Veterans' Compensation for Service-Connected Disabilities
Disabled Veterans are eligible for Veterans’ Compensation for Service-Connected Disabilities, a monthly tax-free payment depending on the degree of the disability. You must have a service-connected disability resulting from injury or disease that was incurred in or aggravated by your active military service to qualify for this benefit program. Service length is not considered for eligibility.
Other Benefit Information & Resources
Want to find more Veterans benefits you might be eligible for? Try taking our Benefit Finder questionnaire or browsing through the Active Duty and Veterans benefit page! We also frequently publish Veterans news articles that explore resources to help you in your search for benefits.
