Do You Understand Veterans' Benefits?

It is important to understand the VA benefits available to you before you separate or retire from military service.

There are a number of benefits available to veterans, including some critical ones you determine toward the end of your service. Failing to address these or making the wrong choice could cost you down the road or force you to leave a lot of money on the table when you exit.

Post-9/11 GI Bill

If you are not going to use this benefit for your own education, transfer it to eligible family members while still in uniform. This requires a four-year service obligation but represents a free college degree worth potentially $100,000 or more.

VA Life Insurance

Your $400,000 Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance coverage ends 120 days after separation. You can replace it with Veterans Group Life Insurance or enroll in the Survivor Benefit Plan if retiring. Private insurers may offer cheaper policies with higher payouts if you are healthy, but start this process before filing a VA disability claim. Timing matters significantly.

VA Disability Claim

While not mandatory, filing is important. Get service-connected health issues documented while in uniform. Six months before separation, provide medical records to an accredited Veteran Service Organization for free representation through the VA claim process.

The critical enrollment windows for post-service benefits span timeframes from 90 days through 575 days after retirement or separation. Understanding these windows is essential to maximizing your benefits.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.