How do I find out to which benefits I am entitled?

SPC Sean House — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 23:32:25 -0400

How can I find out the benefits that I have available to me? Sometimes I am not aware of the benefits that I have. Can I speak with someone knowledgeable? Also, need my ID (it's lost) and info on seeing doctors outside of the VA system.

Response by SFC Terry Stinnett made Mar 30 at 2023 7:04 AM

SFC Terry Stinnett — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 07:04:09 -0400

I'd recommend you start with a VSO, Veterans Service Organization, in your community. Perhaps there is a liaison at your county government as well?

Response by COL Randall C. made Mar 30 at 2023 7:30 AM

COL Randall C. — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 07:30:59 -0400

SFC Terry Stinnett is absolutely correct. Start with a VSO or VAO as they will be the most knowledgeable about what benefits you are eligible for. For your situation (what am I eligible for), I would go with a State's Veterans Affairs Office* as they will be the most knowledgeable about federal and state benefits.

Regarding getting a Veteran ID card, it's all online now*. If you're talking about a military ID, then that would be at the nearest RAPIDS site*.

Your medical question is too open-ended. Are you referring to accessing Community Care where the VA sends you to someone outside the system? Are you referring to using other insurance? Etc.
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* VAO List - https://department.va.gov/about/state-departments-of-veterans-affairs-office-locations/
* Veteran ID from VA - https://www.va.gov/records/get-veteran-id-cards/vic/
* RAPIDS locator - https://idco.dmdc.osd.mil/idco/locator

State Departments of Veterans Affairs Office Locations - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

For more information onState Departments of Veterans Affairs, visit the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA) website. The

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2023 11:56 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 11:56:36 -0400

https://www.va.gov/opa/publications/benefits_book.asp

VA.gov | Veterans Affairs

Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you’ve earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member—like health care, disability, education, and more.