Veteran Q&A: Your Top 100 Questions Answered
VA Benefits
What VA benefits am I eligible for?
Answer: Depends on service length, discharge type (e.g., honorable), and disability. Check VA.gov.
Link: va.gov
Advice: File a DD-214 with VA via eBenefits to start.
How do I apply for VA disability compensation?
Answer: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ online or mail it with DD-214, medical evidence.
Link: va.gov/disability
Advice: Use a VSO—find one at va.gov/vso.
What’s the VA disability rating process?
Answer: VA evaluates medical evidence, assigns 0–100% based on severity.
Advice: Submit detailed records—don’t skip exams.
How long does a VA claim take?
Answer: 3–6 months typically, faster online (eBenefits).
Advice: Track status weekly—call 800-827-1000 if stalled.
Can I appeal a VA disability decision?
Answer: Yes, file a Notice of Disagreement within 1 year.
Link: va.gov/decision-reviews/
Advice: Get VSO help—don’t miss deadlines.
What’s VA healthcare eligibility?
Answer: Requires honorable discharge, 24 months service (some exceptions).
Advice: Enroll early—bring DD-214 to VA clinic.
How do I enroll in VA healthcare?
Answer: Apply online (VA Form 10-10EZ) or at a VA facility.
Advice: Use eBenefits—faster processing.
What’s covered by VA healthcare?
Answer: Preventive care, hospitalizations, prescriptions—varies by priority group.
Advice: Check your group—call 877-222-8387.
Can I use VA healthcare with private insurance?
Answer: Yes, VA bills private insurance for non-service conditions.
Advice: Coordinate both—saves costs.
What’s the GI Bill for education?
Answer: Covers tuition, housing for 36 months—post-9/11 vets.
Link: va.gov/education/
Advice: Apply early—needs DD-214, school info.
How do I apply for GI Bill benefits?
Answer: Use VA Form 22-1990 online via eBenefits.
Advice: Pick an approved school—check VA.gov.
Can I transfer GI Bill to my kids?
Answer: Yes, if 10+ years service, approved before separation.
Advice: Act before retiring—talk to your command.
What’s VA pension eligibility?
Answer: 90 days wartime service, low income, age 65+ or disabled.
Advice: Gather income proof—VSO helps.
How do I apply for a VA pension?
Answer: File VA Form 21P-527EZ online or mail.
Advice: Submit DD-214—eBenefits is quickest.
What’s Aid and Attendance benefit?
Answer: Extra pension for vets needing daily help—home or facility.
Advice: Medical proof key—VSO files it.
Can I get VA burial benefits?
Answer: Yes, honorable discharge—covers plot, headstone, honors.
Advice: Pre-plan—call 800-535-1117.
How do I apply for burial benefits?
Answer: Family submits VA Form 21P-530 post-death with DD-214.
Advice: Keep DD-214 handy—file fast.
What’s the Veteran ID Card (VIC)?
Answer: Photo ID for discounts—not healthcare or DoD related.
Advice: Apply online—needs DD-214 upload.
How do I get a VIC?
Answer: Apply via VA.gov—upload DD-214, photo.
Advice: Digital DD-214 speeds it up—4–6 weeks.
What’s VA vocational rehab?
Answer: Job training, employment help for disabled vets.
Advice: Apply early—needs disability rating.
How do I apply for vocational rehab?
Answer: VA Form 28-1900 online or with counselor.
Link: va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation/how-to-apply/
Advice: Meet a counselor—call 800-827-1000.
What’s the VA caregiver program?
Answer: Support, stipend for caregivers of post-9/11 vets.
Advice: Apply if injured—needs medical proof.
How do I get caregiver support?
Answer: Apply online or call 855-260-3274—needs vet’s records.
Advice: Start early—long approval process.
Can I get VA benefits as a Reservist?
Answer: Yes, if activated 90+ days—needs DD-214.
Advice: Check activation dates—VSO confirms.
What’s the VA appeals modernization?
Answer: New system (2019) for faster claim reviews—3 lanes.
Link: va.gov/decision-reviews/
Advice: Pick the right lane—VSO guides.
DD-214 Forms
What’s a DD-214?
Answer: Discharge document—proves service, eligibility for benefits.
Link: va.gov/records/
Advice: Safeguard it—make copies.
How do I get my DD-214?
Answer: Request via eVetRecs (National Archives) with SF-180.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Online’s fastest—4–6 weeks.
What if I lost my DD-214?
Answer: Replace it through National Archives—use SF-180.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Act now—delays hurt claims.
Can I get DD-214 online?
Answer: Yes, via eVetRecs if discharged after 1992.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Use milConnect if recent—faster.
What’s on a DD-214?
Answer: Service dates, discharge type, awards, MOS.
Link: military.com/benefits/
Advice: Check for errors—correct ASAP.
How do I correct DD-214 errors?
Answer: File DD-215 via branch’s review board—needs proof.
Advice: Gather evidence—VSO helps.
What’s a DD-215?
Answer: Form to correct DD-214—updates records.
Link: va.gov/records/
Advice: File fast—impacts benefits.
Who can request my DD-214?
Answer: You, next of kin (with death proof), or authorized third party.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Protect privacy—don’t share casually.
What if my DD-214 was in the 1973 fire?
Answer: NPRC reconstructs from other records—takes longer.
Advice: Start now—provide details.
Can I get a DD-214 if still serving?
Answer: No, only at separation—use Statement of Service instead.
Link: va.gov/records/
Advice: Ask command for SOS.
How do I get a DD-214 for a deceased vet?
Answer: Next of kin uses SF-180—needs death certificate.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: File early—burial needs it.
What’s the difference between DD-214 copies?
Answer: Member 4 (full) vs. Member 1 (short)—4’s key for benefits.
Link: military.com/benefits/
Advice: Request Member 4—specify it.
How long does DD-214 take to arrive?
Answer: 4–8 weeks via National Archives—faster online.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Mark “emergency” if urgent.
Can I use DD-214 for state benefits?
Answer: Yes, many states (e.g., GA) accept for licenses, tax breaks.
Link: veterans.georgia.gov/
Advice: Check your state VA site.
What if DD-214 lists wrong discharge type?
Answer: Appeal via Discharge Review Board—needs evidence.
Advice: VSO critical—don’t delay.
Do Reservists get a DD-214?
Answer: Yes, if activated 90+ days—otherwise NGB-22.
Link: va.gov/records/
Advice: Confirm activation—VSO checks.
How do I file DD-214 with my county?
Answer: Bring it to county clerk—recording varies by state.
Link: benefits.com/
Advice: Ask about privacy—some skip this.
What’s an SF-180 form?
Answer: Request form for military records, including DD-214.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Fill fully—mail or fax.
Can I expedite DD-214 request?
Answer: Yes, mark “emergency” on eVetRecs—e.g., burial.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Explain urgency—speeds it.
Why does VA need my DD-214?
Answer: Verifies service, discharge—basis for all benefits.
Link: va.gov/records/
Advice: Upload to eBenefits—saves time.
What if DD-214 shows bad conduct?
Answer: Limits benefits—appeal for upgrade if possible.
Advice: Legal help needed—VSO first.
Can I get DD-214 for pre-1950 service?
Answer: Yes, older forms (e.g., WD AGO 53) via NPRC.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Specify era—takes longer.
How do I check DD-214 status?
Answer: Call NPRC (314-801-0800) or check eVetRecs email.
Link: archives.gov/veterans/
Advice: Be patient—long hold times.
What’s milConnect for DD-214?
Answer: DoD portal—recent vets download DD-214 there.
Link: milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil/
Advice: CAC or DS Logon—fastest.
Can DD-214 affect civilian jobs?
Answer: Yes, employers may check discharge type.
Link: military.com/benefits/
Advice: Be honest—explain context.
VA Home Loans
What’s a VA home loan?
Answer: No down payment, low-rate loan for vets—guaranteed by VA.
Advice: Get COE first—key step.
Who’s eligible for VA home loan?
Answer: 90 days active duty, honorable discharge—or 6 years Reserves.
Advice: Check DD-214—VSO confirms.
How do I get a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
Answer: Apply online (eBenefits) or VA Form 26-1880 by mail.
Advice: DD-214 ready—faster online.
What’s needed for VA loan approval?
Answer: COE, credit (580+), income—lender sets specifics.
Advice: Shop lenders—compare rates.
How long does VA loan take?
Answer: 30–45 days—appraisal can slow it.
Link: veteran.com/va-loan/
Advice: Pre-approve—speeds closing.
What’s VA funding fee?
Answer: 1.4–3.6% of loan—waived if disabled.
Advice: Check disability status—saves $$.
Can I reuse VA loan benefit?
Answer: Yes, if prior loan paid or entitlement restored.
Advice: Ask VA—Form 26-1880.
What homes qualify for VA loan?
Answer: Single-family, condos, manufactured—must meet MPRs.
Advice: Check appraisal—fix issues.
Can I refinance with VA?
Answer: Yes, IRRRL lowers rate—needs existing VA loan.
Advice: Compare rates—save long-term.
What’s IRRRL process?
Answer: Apply with lender—no COE, minimal paperwork.
Advice: Pick trusted lender—fast track.
Can I get cash-out with VA loan?
Answer: Yes, refinance to tap equity—needs appraisal.
Advice: Use wisely—debt risk.
Do I need PMI with VA loan?
Answer: No—VA guaranty replaces it.
Advice: Big perk—saves hundreds.
What’s VA loan credit score minimum?
Answer: No VA minimum—lenders often want 580–620.
Link: veteran.com/va-loan/
Advice: Boost score—pays off.
Can surviving spouses get VA loan?
Answer: Yes, if unmarried, DIC-eligible—needs Vet’s DD-214.
Advice: File VA Form 26-1817.
How do I find VA-approved lenders?
Answer: Search VA.gov or ask local VA office.
Advice: Veterans United’s a solid start.
What’s VA appraisal like?
Answer: Checks safety, value—takes 10–14 days.
Advice: Prep home—fix hazards.
Can I buy a fixer-upper with VA?
Answer: Yes, with VA rehab loan—covers repairs.
Advice: Estimate costs—lender approves.
What’s VA loan limit?
Answer: No limit if full entitlement—county caps otherwise.
Advice: Check entitlement—call 877-827-3702.
Can I use VA loan for investment?
Answer: No, primary residence only—strict rule.
Advice: Plan to live there—1 year min.
How do I restore VA entitlement?
Answer: Pay off prior loan or substitute entitlement—Form 26-1880.
Advice: VA regional office helps.
What’s VA Native American loan?
Answer: Direct loan for Native vets on trust land.
Advice: Check tribal eligibility—rare use.
Can I get VA loan with bad credit?
Answer: Possible—lenders may flex below 580 with compensating factors.
Link: veteran.com/va-loan/
Advice: Fix credit—takes time.
What’s VA foreclosure process?
Answer: Lender notifies VA—help available to avoid it.
Advice: Call VA at 877-827-3702 ASAP.
Can I rent out my VA home?
Answer: Yes, after 1 year occupancy—exceptions possible.
Advice: Get VA waiver—paperwork needed.
How do I dispute VA appraisal?
Answer: Request reconsideration of value via lender—needs evidence.
Advice: Photos, comps—act fast.
Military Transitions
What’s military transition like?
Answer: Shift to civilian life—jobs, benefits, identity challenges.
Link: militaryonesource.mil/
Advice: Start planning 6 months out.
How do I find a job after military?
Answer: Use VA’s Voc Rehab, job boards—translate MOS skills.
Advice: Hire Heroes USA—free help.
What’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP)?
Answer: DoD program—job, benefits training pre-separation.
Link: dodtap.mil/
Advice: Attend early—mandatory for most.
How do I sign up for TAP?
Answer: Contact base transition office—starts 12 months out.
Link: dodtap.mil/
Advice: Schedule now—slots fill.
What’s a Veteran Service Officer (VSO)?
Answer: Free advocate for benefits, claims—VA-trained.
Link: va.gov/vso/
Advice: Find one—saves headaches.
How do I move my family post-service?
Answer: DoD covers one final move—file early.
Link: militaryonesource.mil/
Advice: Call 800-342-9647—plan ahead.
Can I keep Tricare after separation?
Answer: Yes, for 180 days (TAMP)—then VA or civilian.
Link: tricare.mil/
Advice: Enroll VA healthcare—overlap smart.
What’s terminal leave?
Answer: Use accrued leave pre-separation—extends benefits.
Link: military.com/benefits/
Advice: Max it—ask command.
How do I translate military skills?
Answer: Use O*NET My Next Move—match MOS to jobs.
Link: mynextmove.org/vets/
Advice: Build resume—highlight leadership.
What’s unemployment for vets?
Answer: UCX—benefits if jobless post-service, varies by state.
Advice: File with state—needs DD-214.
How do I apply for vet unemployment?
Answer: Contact state workforce agency—submit DD-214.
Link: dol.gov/agencies/eta/
Advice: Start day 1—delays cost.
Can I go to college post-service?
Answer: Yes, GI Bill covers it—36 months funding.
Link: va.gov/education/
Advice: Pick VA-approved school—apply now.
What’s VetSuccess on Campus?
Answer: VA support at colleges—counseling, benefits help.
Advice: Ask school—eases transition.
How do I prove vet status to employers?
Answer: Show DD-214 (Member 4)—discharge key.
Link: military.com/benefits/
Advice: Redact SSN—privacy first.
What’s veteran preference for fed jobs?
Answer: 5–10 point boost in hiring—needs DD-214.
Advice: Apply via USAJobs—highlight it.
How do I apply for federal jobs?
Answer: Use USAJobs.gov—upload DD-214, SF-15 if disabled.
Link: usajobs.gov/
Advice: Tailor resume—vets get edge.
What’s VEOA hiring authority?
Answer: Vets compete for merit jobs—needs DD-214.
Advice: Check eligibility—apply often.
Can I reenlist after separation?
Answer: Yes, if fit, prior service okay—needs DD-214.
Link: military.com/join/
Advice: Talk recruiter—age limits apply.
What’s military retirement pay?
Answer: Pension after 20+ years—based on rank, time.
Link: militarypay.defense.gov/
Advice: Check DFAS—file early.
How do I get retirement pay?
Answer: Apply via branch—DD-214, service records.
Link: militarypay.defense.gov/
Advice: Start 6 months out—DFAS slow.
What’s SBP for survivors?
Answer: Survivor Benefit Plan—pension for family post-death.
Link: militarypay.defense.gov/
Advice: Elect at retirement—costly but vital.
How do I adjust to civilian life?
Answer: Seek vet groups, counseling—takes time.
Link: militaryonesource.mil/
Advice: Call 800-342-9647—support’s free.
What’s VET TEC program?
Answer: VA tech training—short courses, no GI Bill use.
Link: va.gov/education/
Advice: Apply if tech-bound—fast track.
Can I get mental health help post-service?
Answer: Yes, VA offers free counseling—call 988 if crisis.
Link: va.gov/health-care/
Advice: Don’t wait—reach out now.
What’s a vet center?
Answer: VA hubs for counseling, transition—no enrollment needed.
Link: vetcenter.va.gov/
Advice: Find nearest—walk in anytime.