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The Department of Veterans Affairs and our community partners, to include Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), American Red Cross Military Veteran Caregiver Network, Blue Star Families, and Elizabeth Dole Foundation will be here to answer questions about survivor resources, caregiver support, memorial affairs.
The Department of Veterans Affairs and our community partners, to include Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), American Red Cross Military Veteran Caregiver Network, Blue Star Families, and Elizabeth Dole Foundation will be here to answer questions about survivor resources, caregiver support, memorial affairs.
Posted in these groups: 
Caregiver
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
American Red Cross
Blue Star Families
Elizabeth Dole Foundation
Caregiver Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors American Red Cross Blue Star Families Elizabeth Dole Foundation
Responses: 10
why is it taking so long to hear appeals? I have been waiting six years come this fall and am told this is normal. I filed same paperwork to the Social Security office and had a check the next month!!! I am the wife of a nam vet with severe mental problems one being ptsd with schizophrenia I have been with him since three months in country, signed him off the mental ward in 2005 being told I couldn't handle his problems his final manic attack came in 2019 and his mind is gone and I am the enemy. He has been deemed dangerous by many agencies and the V.A. and unable to handle his affairs which he got over turned by what I consider a BAD shrink I have reported many and NO ONE LISTENS. case in point veteran suicidal I told this shrink he had been threatening to kill himself the dr asked him if this was true, he said yes then the dr says but you were only doing it to upset her right and the vet said yes NOTHING WAS DONE !! I can't tell you the times I was told there is no place for him or he's too violent you have to come get him from a va hosp treating ptsd !!!! He has been convicted of threatening my life over this appeal I can't get anyone to put him on a ward or in a nursing home that is locked. He is not only a danger to me but to anyone has attacked several people besides me. Why are dangerous veterans allowed to walk around free, and I have to sit and worry about my life every day???? I submitted a garnishment for alimony that came from a State court there should be no reason for the V.A. not to honor that lawful order. My case has been mishandled a few times, and it actually has me in two appeals, and one review is one example. Also why is the V.A. not connected with info from Social Security this being the reason I was denied, hardship on veteran, because the va was unaware he had another income. Also, I was awarded a stipend for his ed comes in my name, but he gets the check?? We have been apart for almost six years why would the va even being paying this award anymore and if it's for me then I should have gotten the last twelve thousand and seventy-five dollars not him. I am struggling to survive go hungry at the end of the month, my bills are behind and i have been declared disabled mainly due to my mental state of what i went through dealing with him, in heart, liver, and kidney failures, trying to recover from hurricane Helena and I can't even get this heard due to hardship, meanwhile the veteran lives off almost six thousand dollars a month most of which he blows brags he spends fifteen hundred a month on marijuana alone !
SPC Matthew Malouf
You know what civilian lady. Get a job! I could sit here all day trying to explain a color to someone whom is blind. But I’m not. He’s not your husband and from what it sounds like all you get is USAA until you remarry. You didn’t serve our country. That’s one hell of a thing to say. Your owed nothing!! His biological children yes if granted an award.
So he smokes buds, good for him! He is not smoking 1500 per month on weed, that shits free. Stop taking his inventory , take your own self inventory before this kinda crap. You’re not a veteran and you should not be here posting here. Go away! The VA doesn’t like you because you’re a sniveler. They have nothing to say to you. Your just a whiny x spouse trying to get government money from your disabled divorced husband….. jeeez crazy civilians , wow
So he smokes buds, good for him! He is not smoking 1500 per month on weed, that shits free. Stop taking his inventory , take your own self inventory before this kinda crap. You’re not a veteran and you should not be here posting here. Go away! The VA doesn’t like you because you’re a sniveler. They have nothing to say to you. Your just a whiny x spouse trying to get government money from your disabled divorced husband….. jeeez crazy civilians , wow
Why is there no help for survivors of spouses/parents whose death wasnt servic connected, didn’t receive their benefits for 10+ years or earn more than roughly $10,500? I live on a disability check that has me well below the poverty line and I need help. The VA goes out of their way to not help survivors.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
We understand and acknowledge the challenges faced by survivors in these circumstances. The Department of Veterans Affairs is bound by federal statutes that define eligibility for survivor benefits, including Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and Survivors Pension. These programs are designed to support survivors of veterans who either passed away due to a service-connected condition or who meet income and net worth thresholds established by law.
In cases where the veteran’s death is not deemed service-connected—or when benefits were not received during the veteran’s lifetime—survivors may fall outside the eligibility criteria outlined by Congress. While this can feel like an oversight, these standards are in place to ensure consistency and accountability across the benefit system.
That said, the VA continues to work closely with Congress, Veterans Service Organizations, and advocates to evaluate potential policy reforms. We strongly encourage any survivor in need to speak with a VA-accredited representative or claims officer to review their case and explore all available options, including state-based or local resources.
In cases where the veteran’s death is not deemed service-connected—or when benefits were not received during the veteran’s lifetime—survivors may fall outside the eligibility criteria outlined by Congress. While this can feel like an oversight, these standards are in place to ensure consistency and accountability across the benefit system.
That said, the VA continues to work closely with Congress, Veterans Service Organizations, and advocates to evaluate potential policy reforms. We strongly encourage any survivor in need to speak with a VA-accredited representative or claims officer to review their case and explore all available options, including state-based or local resources.
AB Bonnie Carroll
Thank you for your service, SGT Lozada. We appreciate you taking the time to join us.
What is the reason for the priority groups?
"Priority Group 1 veterans generally receive higher priority for VA health care than those in groups 2 through 8. Priority Group 1 includes veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 50% or more, those deemed unemployable due to service-connected conditions, and Medal of Honor recipients."
When booking appointments, the priority one group should have preference over the 2-8, but it does not work that way.
In the results, veterans with service-connected conditions have to stand in line rather than move to the head of the line.
http://www.onlyusa.us
"Priority Group 1 veterans generally receive higher priority for VA health care than those in groups 2 through 8. Priority Group 1 includes veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 50% or more, those deemed unemployable due to service-connected conditions, and Medal of Honor recipients."
When booking appointments, the priority one group should have preference over the 2-8, but it does not work that way.
In the results, veterans with service-connected conditions have to stand in line rather than move to the head of the line.
http://www.onlyusa.us
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Priority Groups were established under the “Veterans' Health Care Eligibility Reform Act of 1996” (Public Law No. 104-262), which was enacted on October 9, 1996. This Act made significant changes to the laws governing eligibility for VA health care benefits. It amended 38 U.S.C. § 1710, which authorizes the VA to provide hospital care, medical services (including outpatient care), and nursing home care to Veterans. Additionally, the Eligibility Reform Act introduced a new section, 38 U.S.C. § 1705, which directs the VA to create a patient enrollment system to manage the delivery of care and services. In essence, section 1705 establishes priority groups and requires the VA to enroll Veterans according to the specified priorities.
To address concerns that the VA's annual funding for medical care may be inadequate to serve all Veterans requesting care, both mandatory and discretionary, Congress enacted 38 U.S.C. § 1705. This legislation directs the VA to establish and operate an annual patient enrollment system. If funds are insufficient to provide care for all Veterans seeking services, this priority list will be used to determine a "cut-off" point for enrollment.
Effective January 17, 2003, the VA suspended new enrollment for Veterans assigned to Priority Groups 8e and 8g, which represent the lowest priority category and consist of Veterans with higher incomes. Therefore, these Veterans are not eligible for enrollment at this time.
To address concerns that the VA's annual funding for medical care may be inadequate to serve all Veterans requesting care, both mandatory and discretionary, Congress enacted 38 U.S.C. § 1705. This legislation directs the VA to establish and operate an annual patient enrollment system. If funds are insufficient to provide care for all Veterans seeking services, this priority list will be used to determine a "cut-off" point for enrollment.
Effective January 17, 2003, the VA suspended new enrollment for Veterans assigned to Priority Groups 8e and 8g, which represent the lowest priority category and consist of Veterans with higher incomes. Therefore, these Veterans are not eligible for enrollment at this time.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Member Services defers as we do not have equity in booking appointments. We recommend Clinical Services and Integrated Veteran Care (IVC) review for their potential equity.
It is sad when our veterans pass from presumptive conditions, such as Agent Orange, the serving spouse has their monthly benefits drop.
The benefits should continue at the same level.
The veteran and spouse have been living on a fixed income. The veteran passes on a 100% disability due to a condition resulting from their service. Why force the suffering spouse to liquidate to meet a budget?
The benefits should continue at the same level.
The veteran and spouse have been living on a fixed income. The veteran passes on a 100% disability due to a condition resulting from their service. Why force the suffering spouse to liquidate to meet a budget?
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Under current federal law, VA disability compensation is provided to veterans for their service-connected conditions and, unfortunately, ends upon their passing. Surviving spouses may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), which is a separate benefit with its own eligibility criteria and payment amounts, as determined by Congress.
We recognize that the transition from the veteran’s compensation to DIC may not reflect the full financial reality that surviving families face. While the VA must administer benefits as prescribed by law, we are committed to supporting survivors by helping them navigate available resources and exploring any additional benefits for which they may be eligible.
Your feedback is important and helps bring attention to the real-world impact of current policy. We encourage you to connect with a VA-accredited representative who can assist in reviewing your circumstances and identifying further support that may be available to you.
We recognize that the transition from the veteran’s compensation to DIC may not reflect the full financial reality that surviving families face. While the VA must administer benefits as prescribed by law, we are committed to supporting survivors by helping them navigate available resources and exploring any additional benefits for which they may be eligible.
Your feedback is important and helps bring attention to the real-world impact of current policy. We encourage you to connect with a VA-accredited representative who can assist in reviewing your circumstances and identifying further support that may be available to you.
My disability rating was just changed to 90%. How do I get caregiver set up and use ?
SSG Benton Miller
Reach out to your county VSO or the VA social worker. They will be able to get ya squared away.
PO3 Matthew "DOC" Campbell
Thank you A1C Timothy Batzer for the question. Every VA Medical Center is staffed with a CSP Team/Caregiver Support Team . This team can assist you with determining the resources and services available for you and help guide you with enrolling in CSP programs. Please check and start here: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/support/New_CSC_Page.asp
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.
My husband was 100% Service Connected with ALS. Thank you for all the assistance we were given while he was living.
I was just connected with the VA for Tax assistance (after 4 years).
Are there other benefits that are available to me since his death?
Thank you again for all your help while he was living.
I was just connected with the VA for Tax assistance (after 4 years).
Are there other benefits that are available to me since his death?
Thank you again for all your help while he was living.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
As the surviving spouse of a veteran who was 100% service-connected for ALS, you may be entitled to several benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. These may include:
• Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): A tax-free monthly benefit for eligible survivors of veterans who died from a service-connected condition.
• Survivors Pension: Based on income and net worth, this benefit provides financial support to low-income surviving spouses.
• CHAMPVA (Civilian Health and Medical Program of the VA): Health care benefits for certain surviving spouses who do not qualify for TRICARE.
• Education and Training (Chapter 35): Also known as the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, this offers education benefits for eligible dependents.
• Home Loan Guaranty: Potential entitlement to VA-backed home loans.
• Burial Benefits: Reimbursement for funeral expenses and potential eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery.
• VA Life Insurance Proceeds (if applicable): If your husband held VA life insurance.
Each benefit has specific eligibility criteria and application requirements. We recommend working with a VA-accredited representative who can guide you through the process and help ensure you’re receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to.
• Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): A tax-free monthly benefit for eligible survivors of veterans who died from a service-connected condition.
• Survivors Pension: Based on income and net worth, this benefit provides financial support to low-income surviving spouses.
• CHAMPVA (Civilian Health and Medical Program of the VA): Health care benefits for certain surviving spouses who do not qualify for TRICARE.
• Education and Training (Chapter 35): Also known as the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, this offers education benefits for eligible dependents.
• Home Loan Guaranty: Potential entitlement to VA-backed home loans.
• Burial Benefits: Reimbursement for funeral expenses and potential eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery.
• VA Life Insurance Proceeds (if applicable): If your husband held VA life insurance.
Each benefit has specific eligibility criteria and application requirements. We recommend working with a VA-accredited representative who can guide you through the process and help ensure you’re receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to.
PO3 Matthew "DOC" Campbell
Thank you for your question Brenda Pulver. Sharing the below a couple resources that points to Coalition of Veterans Organizations in support of Mesothelioma that may be helpful:
* https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/prognosis/support/
* https://www.coalitionofvets.org/veterans-and-mesothelioma/
* https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/prognosis/support/
* https://www.coalitionofvets.org/veterans-and-mesothelioma/
Mesothelioma Support for Veterans | Mesothelioma Support
Support groups and key resources can help U.S. veterans, civilians, and loved ones fighting mesothelioma. Find mesothelioma support options now.
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I Inadvertently Found Them While Looking For Some Help With Our VA Out Here In Vegas ~ It's A Mess
~~~ DOCUMENTATION~~~ From Benefits.Gov ~~~
~ I'd Suggest It Be Copied & Placed In Your Permanent Files, Even If Your VA Ignores It Too ~ PRICKS ~
This Was From November Of 2024 But It Began LONG Before The Date Shown:~
I Just Kept Doing Research, And This Is What Showed Up
Sent: 11/25/2023 9:52:08 PM Pacific Standard Time
Subject: Is A Military Veteran Entitled To Care And Supplies, Through ANY Va Facility, Regardless Of Where He Resides?
~~ My Question To Benefits.Gov ~~
"Is A Military Veteran Entitled To Care And Supplies,
Through ANY VA Facility, Regardless Of Where He Resides"?
~~ This Is Their Reply~~
YES, a military veteran can receive medical products from out-of-state VA facilities, even if they are not living there. ~~ (Miscellaneous, But Read & Retain) ~~
However, the veteran must be eligible for VA care without needing to enroll or be enrolled in VA health care 1. The eligibility for community care is dependent upon a veteran’s individual health care needs or circumstances 1. In most cases, veterans must receive approval from VA prior to obtaining care from a community provider 1. VA staff members generally make all eligibility determinations 1. Please note that VA is not authorized to ship medications or medical/surgical supply items outside of the U.S. or its territories 2. If you’re a veteran who lives overseas, you remain entitled to the benefits and services you earned through your military service. Most VA benefits are payable regardless of your place of residence or nationality 3. If you’re moving outside the U.S., you’ll need to sign up for the Foreign Medical Program. Through this program, VA will pay for certain needed health care services received in foreign countries to treat a service-connected disability or a disability that’s making a service-connected condition worse 4.
I hope this helps!
I Don't Doubt We Have Many Benefits,
I Just Find It Extremely Difficult To Get Them,
And From Other Comments In Here, Many Others
Are Having The Same Problem.... But Referrals? ~ By The Dozens