Veterans Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates a number of programs providing financial, medical, and other assistance to veterans. Eligibility for these benefits sometimes depends on financial need or time of service. For older veterans, three major benefit programs are of particular value: disability compensation, VA pension, and free or low-cost medical care through VA hospitals and medical facilities. The VA also provides home loans, educational opportunities, and legal protections for veterans.

The articles on this page explain how to qualify for and access these benefits, the protections offered by the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, and the rights of veterans in employment. Readers will also learn about state-specific benefits for veterans and their families.

Learn about various ways to avoid a foreclosure if you have a VA loan.

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides legal relief to military personnel who are in danger of foreclosure.

Active service members can take steps to reduce loan obligations, prevent court judgments, and avoid eviction and foreclosure.

Most veterans who served on active duty are eligible for VA health care, but priority for benefits depends on disability and other factors.

The VA may pay all or part of the nursing home costs for disabled and elderly veterans.

Health care and educational benefits are available to spouses and children of veterans who are totally and permanently disabled.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) discriminates against same-sex couples and that the federal government must treat all married couples equally.

Family members of deceased or disabled veterans may have access to certain funeral benefits to help pay for the burial and memorial.

While you are on active duty for the military, you may be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and not realize it.

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Service members coming home from military duty can often face challenges adjusting to civilian life, including work.

Employees may take FMLA leave when a military family member is injured or called to active duty.

Learn about state laws that protect an employee's right to take leave for military service.

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Learn about the types of benefits you can get from the VA as well as tax exemptions, healthcare, and housing assistance for your state.

Learn about state laws that protect an employee's right to take leave for military service.

The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) offers many state benefits to veterans in addition to the benefits offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

In addition to veterans benefits available to you through the federal Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), you are also eligible for state benefits through the Texas Veteran's Commission.

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