Author: vetguide

In addition to benefits for veterans, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) issues benefits to survivors, spouses, dependents, and caregivers. VA dependent benefits and other programs for family members and caregivers may include healthcare coverage, financial aid for education, burial costs, and more.

Benefits for Family Members and Caregivers of Veterans

• VA Survivor Benefits
• VA Spouse Benefits
• VA Dependent Benefits
• VA Caregiver Benefits 

A spouse, surviving spouse, dependent child, or caregiver of an eligible veteran can qualify for various VA benefits programs. The VA offers some of these programs to multiple groups to offset the costs of education and training, life insurance, home purchases, and other necessities for families.

Veterans do not need to qualify for VA disability compensation with a service-connected disability for their families to be eligible for every benefit. However, this is a requirement for some programs. Tuition assistance, health care, and home loans are a few examples of benefits for veterans that are also offered to any eligible veteran family.

Benefits for Family Members and Caregivers of Veterans

The following benefits for veterans are ones that family members and caregivers may also apply for if eligible.

VA Survivor Benefits

A survivor is a spouse or dependent child or parent of a service member who died on active duty service or from an injury, illness, or disability relating to their service. The VA pays benefits to survivors of deceased veterans to help with education, healthcare, and more.

Health Benefits

The VA offers two primary healthcare programs for survivors: TRICARE and The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA).

TRICARE provides health coverage for the survivors of deceased family members. This comprehensive health coverage pays for services provided by both military and in-network civilian health care systems and providers.

CHAMPVA is a cost-share program that covers many essential health services for survivors. Family members may qualify for CHAMPVA if they do not qualify for TRICARE. For a family member to get these survivor benefits, the veteran must be rated as permanently and totally disabled, died from a service-connected disability, or was rated as permanently and totally disabled when they died.

Education and Training Benefits

Several VA education benefits exist for veterans and their families. Survivors can receive educational benefits if the veteran died while on active duty due to their service-connected disability or is permanently and totally disabled with a service-connected disability.

Chapter 35 benefits, also known as the GI Bill, offers separate programs for survivors and dependents. One, Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA), pays for college degree programs, certificate programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training in the form of a monthly benefit to cover tuition and fees.

The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship (Fry Scholarship) pays survivors of members of the Selected Reserve with a service-connected disability or of the Armed Forces who died on or off active duty. The benefit pays up to $25,162.14 per year for tuition and fees.

Home Loans and Financial Counseling Benefits

An unmarried surviving spouse interested in buying a home can get a VA-backed loan. These loans can also be used to refinance a current mortgage, build a new home, or repair your current home. VA loans can come with no down payment, affordable closing costs, and low interest rates.

Eligibility requirements include being able to get a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through the VA and meeting a lender’s requirements for credit, income, and other qualifications.

Life Insurance and Pension Benefits

VA pension and life insurance benefits, sometimes known as death benefits, can support a survivor’s financial needs after their loved one’s death.

Veterans who hold a VA life insurance policy at the time of their death will pass their benefits to surviving spouses or children. A VA Survivors Pension pays a monthly benefit to eligible survivors veterans of active duty service. Surviving children must be under the age of 18, or under the age of 23 if attending an eligible school full-time.

Surviving Spouse and Dependent Compensation

VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (VA DIC) is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to the families of disabled veterans who died as a result of their service-connected disabilities. The rates for these VA benefits vary depending on the type of dependent, which includes spouses, children, and parents.

Survivors must apply for DIC benefits after the veteran’s death using the correct form for their survivor status. Survivors may also file an intent to file form to have more time to complete the application process and potentially qualify for retroactive DIC payments.

Burial Benefits

The VA provides financial assistance for survivors to cover burial costs of their veterans. Veterans with honorable discharges may be buried in a National Cemetery at no charge. Other burial benefits can cover some funeral costs, memorial items, and bereavement counseling for survivors. Bereavement counseling consists of counseling and referral services to get surviving family members the help they need after a loved one’s death.

VA Spouse Benefits

Spouses of veterans can access several forms of assistance, such as educational financial aid, burial compensation, and life insurance benefits.

Health Benefits

VA health benefits can be as beneficial to a veteran’s spouse as they are to the veteran. Many veteran spouses receive TRICARE benefits, which provide comprehensive coverage for preventative, treatment, and emergency services.

Spouses must be registered in DEERS to receive these VA benefits. The veteran and their spouse may choose from different plans, including TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Select, and for Medicare recipients, TRICARE for Life. Spouses may also qualify for the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) to receive vision and dental coverage.

Education and Training Benefits

Veterans who are considered permanently and totally disabled by the VA may qualify for their spouse to receive an education benefit through their GI Bill. VA education benefits can pay for a degree program, certificate program, or training program to help the spouse achieve their career goals.

The veteran will need to apply for these benefits for their spouse. Spouses may receive monthly benefits to cover tuition, books, fees, and other educational costs through the DEA program.

Employment Benefits

As a dependent of a military veteran, a spouse can receive educational and career counseling through the VA’s Personalized Career Planning and Guidance (Chapter 36). Chapter 36 benefits help military spouses discover what their career interests are and provide them with counseling and resources to help them achieve their goals.

This vocational rehabilitation benefit is free for military dependents, but veterans must qualify for a VA education benefit, like the Post-9/11 GI Bill, for their spouses to qualify.

Life Insurance Benefits

Veterans eligible for life insurance benefits through the VA can add their spouse to their policy through the Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI) program. Veterans must have an FSGLI life insurance plan while on active duty service with their spouse added to the policy to transition their spouse to a Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) policy once they leave the service.

FSGLI gives spouses up to $100,000 in life insurance coverage.

Burial Benefits

The VA allows spouses to secure a burial spot in a National Cemetery just like a veteran, even if the veteran does not get buried in one. To determine their spouse’s eligibility, a veteran can file a pre-need eligibility application. Spouses may also apply, but they’ll need the veteran’s information, including their Social Security Number and DD214, to apply.

VA Dependent Benefits

Eligible dependents of veterans may qualify for education benefits, life insurance, and other helpful forms of assistance.

Health Benefits

A dependent child may receive TRICARE or CHAMPVA benefits through the VA. For families who do not qualify for TRICARE, CHAMPVA can cover some of the costs of medical care. A veteran must be permanently or totally disabled from a service-connected disability to be eligible for CHAMPVA.

Education and Training Benefits

The VA will pay for some education and training for dependent children of qualifying veterans. Adult children between 18 and 26 can be eligible for DEA to pay for college programs, vocational training, and other career-focused programs and services. This educational benefit can also cover housing costs for students who wish to live on campus at their college or university.

Employment Benefits

If a veteran qualifies for a VA education benefit, their dependent child could receive employment benefits through the VA. Career counseling helps veteran dependents meet their career goals by discussing educational benefits, connecting them with community resources, and planning their best career pathway.

Life Insurance Benefits

Like spouses, child dependents can be covered by a veteran’s life insurance policy. After leaving the service, a servicemember can add their children to their FSGLI and transition to a VGLI plan. Dependent children get free coverage and receive $10,000 in coverage each.

Burial Benefits

A veteran’s dependent children may be eligible for burial in a National Cemetery even if the veteran isn’t. A minor child and some unmarried adult children of the veteran can receive this benefit.

VA Caregiver Benefits

The VA offers the VA Caregiver Support Program, which incorporates different programs and services for people who care for disabled or elderly veterans. The programs prioritize skills training, mentoring, and resource connections for veteran caregivers.

Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS)

The PGCSS is a program for general caregivers of an elderly or disabled veteran. For the caregiver to receive assistance, the veteran must be enrolled in a VA health care program and needs help completing daily tasks, like dressing or eating.

The program consists of skills training resources that prepare caregivers for emergencies, prevent suicide, and more. Caregivers also learn tools and techniques to help them manage their own stress and well-being while caring for a veteran. PGCSS may also pay for respite care to temporarily relieve caregivers from their duties.

Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

Family members who care for a veteran and full-time and live-in caregivers may qualify for PCAFC. This program is specifically for family and live-in caregivers of a veteran with a disability rating of at least 70%. The veteran must also need at least six months of full-time care for a family member to qualify.

PCAFC pays for caregiver training and mental health counseling for the caregiver. Caregivers may also receive a monthly payment, respite care, and health care through the CHAMPVA program.

VA Spouse, Dependent, and Survivor Benefits

VA dependent benefits, spouse benefits, and survivor benefits help families of veterans afford health care, life insurance, and higher education. These veterans’ benefits can also assist spouses and children get on the right path to their chosen career through career counseling and resources.

Families of a wartime veteran may even get burial benefits and monthly pension benefits after the veteran’s death. If you need assistance with your VA family benefits, reach out to your local Veterans Service Organization or a VA disability attorney.

When a service member transitions to civilian life, it’s often a good time to explore purchasing a home. Some veterans are already homeowners looking to move to a new home or remodel their existing home. Either way, a VA home loan is a great alternative to traditional home financing.

6 Ways a VA Home Loan Is Better Than a Conventional Loan

• Easier to qualify
• No Mortgage Insurance
• Save on Closing Costs
• $0 Down Payment
• Lower Interest Rates
• Lifetime Availability

Despite their name, VA loans are not actually extended and serviced by the Department of Veterans Affairs. At one time they were, and in select cases some still are, but predominantly they are offered by third-party financial institutions like a bank or mortgage lender. The reason these types of loans are called VA loans is because the VA backs the loan, promising to repay up to 50% of it back in the event of a default, up to $45,000.

Easier to Qualify

VA loans are easier to qualify for because the VA backs a portion of the loan. The main reason why a bank or lender would deny a loan is when the applicant presents a credit risk. However, in the case of a VA loan, the government is promising to repay a portion of the loan if the borrower defaults, which significantly reduces the credit risk.

This means that the lender can loosen their requirements in terms of minimum credit score, income, employment history, and whatever other factors they might have. However, keep in mind that banks and lenders are still allowed to create lending requirements.

What about past bankruptcy or foreclosure?

Lenders cannot deny VA borrowers for having a bankruptcy or foreclosure if it occurred over two years ago. This isn’t the case with an ordinary borrower. However, if the foreclosure was on a property funded by a VA loan, the borrower may need to settle their debt with the VA before obtaining a new mortgage.

No Mortgage Insurance Required

If a borrower puts down less than 20% on their home purchase, they will often be required to obtain PMI or private mortgage insurance. This insurance will help the bank get compensated if the borrower defaults, but the responsibility for paying the premiums falls on the homeowner.

A VA loan borrower still must pay a one-time VA funding fee. This fee is typically 2.3% of the total amount borrowed, and 3.6% for borrowers who have taken out a VA loan before. Disabled veterans can sometimes have the fee waived in its entirety, while others can reduce the VA funding fee by putting down more than 5%.

Save on Closing Costs

In a normal home sale, closing costs include things like loan origination fees, appraisal fees, title search fees, title insurance, taxes, and deed recording (to name a few). Although closing costs vary from state to state, they typically run about 2-5% of the loan amount.

While a VA loan borrower will still have to pay some closing costs, as part of the agreement the VA has with lenders, the lenders must limit the amount they can charge VA borrowers in terms of closing costs to no more than 4% of the loan total. This is good news for Veteran homeowners because they can put some of that savings towards moving, furniture, or even a few monthly mortgage payments.

$0 Down Payment

A VA loan does not require a down payment, which is a pretty amazing feature in and of itself. You really can finance up to 100% of the home with a VA loan. However, it is important to keep in mind that making a down payment of at least 5% can reduce your VA funding fee.

The more money you can put down on your home, the lower your monthly payment will be, which is a serious consideration, especially for veterans on a fixed income. Even so, there are many veterans who, just getting out of their service, may not be in the position to have saved up a significant amount of cash for a traditional 20%+ down payment.

Lower Interest Rates

The interest rates for a VA loan are typically lower than traditional conventional loans. Some estimates suggest that rates are usually 0.25% lower. Since the VA is backing the loans and reducing the credit risk, the lender can also lower the rate of the mortgage they’re extending.

It’s still important to keep in mind the difference between variable loans and fixed loans. Variable loans have rates that fluctuate with the market, while fixed rates do not change. The type of loan you get depends on the market at the time, your projected future earnings, and other factors you should discuss with a lender who has your best interests at heart.

Lifetime Availability and Assumability

You can transfer your VA to a future homebuyer, which makes it easier to sell your home in the future. Of course, the homebuyer you’re transferring it to must also be eligible. VA loans are also always available to veterans, whether they are first-time homebuyers or looking to refinance an existing property.

As long as you have met the eligibility requirements vis-a-vis your service and obtained a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA, five, ten, fifteen, or more than twenty years can go by and you can still get a VA loan.

What Are the Different Types of VA Home Loans?

There are several different types of VA home loans. Choosing the right loan depends on your specific situation and goals.

Purchase Loan

The VA Purchase Loan is the standard VA loan you can use to purchase a primary residence. This primary residence could be a single-family home, condo, or multi-unit property of up to four units, one of which serves as your primary residence.

To qualify for the VA purchase loan, you must have a COE (Certificate of Eligibility) which shows that you retired or were honorably discharged from service. You must also meet the lending requirements of the lender you are working with.

While every lending firm has unique requirements, there is no national minimum credit score set by the VA that these lenders must follow. This, along with the fact that the VA is backing the loan, makes these purchase loans much easier to obtain for veterans.

Native American Direct Loan (NADL)

If you are a Native American or you are married to a Native American, you can get a VA loan to buy a home on a reservation or federal trust land. You can also use a NADL to remodel an existing property or even build a new home.

Remember that a VA mortgage is offered by a third-party VA mortgage lender. If you have VA loan eligibility for an NADL, that is a very specific type of loan type, and not every loan officer will be able to help qualified veterans obtain it. There is a good chance that if you fall into the category of eligible veterans for this loan option, you are looking at buying, building, or renovating a home on a federal land trust.

It’s a good idea to seek out a mortgage loan officer with a local bank, credit union, or branch of a larger bank since they will be familiar with the federal trust land and likely have more experience putting this type of loan option together.

Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL)

If you already have a VA loan but would like to refinance and lower your monthly payment, an IRRRL could help. To qualify, the first loan must be a VA loan, and you have to prove you are residing in the home. Or, if you already have a second mortgage, the lienholder of that second mortgage must agree to treat the IRRRL as your primary mortgage.

The VA IRRRL carries a greater degree of flexibility for eligible veterans who may have already moved out of the home they initially financed with a VA mortgage loan. If you are a veteran in this position, you can retain your first home as a rental or vacation home, as long as you resided there for one year. For eligible veterans, an IRRRL can provide some options for restructuring your overall debts to ease the burden of your finances.

Cash-Out Refinance Loan

If you have some equity in your home, then you can take some of that equity out in the form of cash by getting a cash-out refinance loan. These types of loans are typically used for larger expenses like school tuition, paying off other debts (like credit cards), or remodeling.

Remember that VA guaranteed loans have several advantages over a conventional loan, including interest rates and qualifying factors. This means that the VA cash-out refi is an attractive option to something like a HELOC (home equity line of credit).

The VA cash-out refinance option does not require that your home initially have been financed with a VA mortgage loan. In fact, the type of loan used does not matter at all, because this type of loan is based on the amount of actual homeownership you have in your property, allowing you to borrow against that ownership.

The cash-out refi is great for older Veterans who have paid off their home and would like a lump sum of money to use in retirement, travel, cover medical expenses, or gift to their grandchildren for college tuition.

Benefits of a VA Home Loan

A VA home loan can provide veterans with several home loan benefits compared to a traditional conventional mortgage. Remember that VA home loans are not offered by the VA, but the department guarantees the loans provided by third-party financial institutions like banks, credit unions, and mortgage lenders.

Not all VA loans are the same, and lenders are still allowed to have their own requirements and terms, up to a certain point. For instance, lenders are not able to have closing costs exceed 4% of the loan total. This means that you will still need to shop around for the best loan. Now that you are armed with a better understanding of VA home loans, you can reach out to qualified lenders who can walk you through your options.

Veteran-owned businesses have access to several entrepreneurial benefits. The government and private organizations maintain various business financing options for eligible veteran small business owners. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) also offers resources to assist veterans in locating small business financing opportunities.

16 Small Business Loans and Grants for Veterans

1. Hivers and Strivers
2. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Grants
3. Warrior Rising Grant
4. Veterans Business Fund
5. StreetShares Foundation
6. SBA Patriot Express Loan
7. Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Program
8. SBA Veterans Advantage Guaranteed Loan
9. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
10. SBA 7(a) Loans
11. SBA 504 Loans
12. SBA Microloans
13. SBA Mentor-Protégé Program
14. Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (MREIDL) 
15. Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E)
16. Veteran Entrepreneur Portal

What Is a Vetrepreneur?

A Vetrepreneur is a military veteran who owns and operates a business. Veterans are eligible for several financing opportunities to start or grow a business.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) prioritizes veteran entrepreneurship through its multiple small business loan programs for men and women veterans. However, veterans can also benefit from several other SBA financing options made for any business owner. Veteran entrepreneurs may receive financial assistance, entrepreneurship training, and other forms of small business help through private organizations and other government programs.

Veterans own 9.1% of all United States businesses. Each veteran small business owner leaves a lasting footprint on our country’s culture. The VA, SBA, and other organizations show their gratitude to former service members who have helped sustain the economy through their businesses with each loan program targeting veteran business owners.

16 Small Business Loans and Grants for Veterans

Explore some of the best funding options for a veteran-owned small business below.

1. Hivers and Strivers

Hivers and Strivers is an angel investment company that invests solely in businesses owned by veterans. Some of its investments have gone to companies like LeaseLock, VetAccel, and True Made Foods.

Since 2014, Hivers and Strivers has invested in several veteran-owned businesses. Investors looking to help the organization support these businesses can apply to become an investor with the company. Additionally, a veteran business owner can apply online to seek funding.

2. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Grants

NASE gives veterans and non-veterans business grants of up to $4,000 to help them start and grow their businesses. You must be a member of NASE to apply, and only those eligible, like veteran members and annual members, may apply immediately after joining. However, monthly members must wait at least 90 days after becoming a member to apply. Additionally, business owners must prove an identifiable business need that the grant can help and have a clear business plan in place to be approved.

3. Warrior Rising Grant

The Warrior Rising Grant goes to veterans who own a business. The grant may apply to startup costs to help get a business running. Loans are also available, as are business-building services. Warrior Rising can help business owners get assistance from the SBA or a private lender, for example, or mentor an entrepreneur with business matters. 

Veterans must fill out an online application with details about themselves and their business for approval consideration for grants and loans.

4. Veterans Business Fund

The Veterans Business Fund provides veteran-owned small business funding in the form of loans. The loans are affordable and non-interest-bearing, as donors fund them. The fund is also available for franchise owners that need extra money to get their business moving.

When the Veterans Business Fund opens for applications after receiving the appropriate amount of funding, veterans must first apply for a loan option through a lender. Using the information from the lender, the Veteran Business Fund can then begin the process of helping the veteran business owner secure funding.

5. StreetShares Foundation

The StreetShares Foundation offers a monetary award for veteran-owned businesses. The nonprofit organization works with the military veteran entrepreneurial community to provide free resources for veterans to start and grow their businesses, including digital content and entrepreneurial mentorship.

The grant program requires veterans to submit an online application and a pitch video describing their business and how it impacts the military community.

6. SBA Patriot Express Loan

The SBA’s primary goal is to assist owners of small businesses, and veterans may also be able to benefit from a veteran small business loan through the organization. The SBA Patriot Express Loan program began in 2007 to directly assist veteran business owners, but it ended in 2013. The program provided more than $633 million to veteran businesses through simplified loans with low interest rates in its first four years.

While this program is no longer available, veteran business owners should consider using the SBA Express Loan program, also known as SBA 7(a) loans, which we detail below.

7. Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Program

The SDVOSB is a veteran-focused program offered by the SBA. As a member of the SDVOSB, you can compete for awards added by the federal government.

A service-disabled veteran may apply if they own a small business that’s at least 51% owned and controlled by a service-disabled veteran and has its day-to-day operations managed by a service-disabled veteran. The veteran’s disability must also have a proven service connection. However, veterans may self-certify their businesses without going through an official approval process at SAM.gov.

8. SBA Veterans Advantage Guaranteed Loan

Another offering from the SBA designed specifically for a veteran entrepreneur, the SBA Veterans Advantage Guaranteed Loan program grants a VA small business loan up to $5,000,000. These guaranteed loans reduce underwriting costs and help loans go through the underwriting and closing process quicker to get veterans the financing they need.

To qualify for a business loan, the veteran-owned small business must be at least 51% owned by a veteran, like the SDVOSB program, or someone from a military group. Honorably discharged vets, active duty service members, active reservists, National Guard members, and the spouse of a veteran or another eligible military person may qualify.

9. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)

SBIR is a program that recognizes businesses involved in research and creating innovative ways to operate or help society. The SBIR funding program isn’t specifically for veterans, but veteran business owners are welcome to apply. The program pays grants rather than loans to assist their business endeavors.

Qualifying companies must have less than 500 employees and be mostly owned by United States citizens. Applicants must send in a proposal after registering for SBIR as part of their applications. SBIR first grants Phase I grants. Some businesses may also qualify for Phase II grants to receive more funding.

10. SBA 7(a) Loans

A 7(a) loan from the SBA is also known as an Express Loan. These are among the most common loans for small businesses to apply for, including those owned by veterans. Veteran business owners may receive this SBA loan if they meet the SBA’s criteria for being a small business, working for profit, and conducting business within the United States. They should also demonstrate a need for the loan and have a clear purpose for funding.

The maximum loan amount is $5 million. Business owners can use funding as working capital, purchase supplies necessary for conducting or growing a business, or refinancing their debts.

11. SBA 504 Loans

A veteran business owner may opt for SBA 504 loans if they need long-term financing with a fixed interest rate. These loans offer up to $5 million for businesses requiring major fixed assets to expand job opportunities and scale their businesses. Companies might use the funds to purchase industrial equipment or more land to build another facility.

Eligible businesses include those that operate for profit, exist in the United States, have an average net income of less than $5 million for the two years before applying, and have a net worth valued less than $15 million.

12. SBA Microloans

SBA microloans are for small business owners, including veterans who own a business. A microloan is a small loan of up to $50,000 that works best to get small businesses up and running to secure a sound future. Typical interest rates fall between 8% and 13%. Business owners can buy equipment, supplies, and inventory for the loan, but they may not use it to purchase real estate or pay off debts.

Veterans should apply through a private lender that works with the SBA microloan program to receive an SBA microloan. The interest rate, the amount borrowed, and the repayment terms may vary depending on the lender you choose.

13. SBA Mentor-Protégé Program

While it doesn’t technically provide funding in the form of a veteran business loan or grant, the SBA Mentor-Protégé Program can still save veteran business owners money. This program mentors business owners on several facets of business, including accounting, marketing, business strategy, and administrative duties. It also guides business owners in securing the funding they need to start or grow their businesses.

Small business owners can apply if they meet size standards, have a for-profit business, and have a mentor in mind to use with the program.

14. Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (MREIDL) 

The MREIDL program, also known as a military reservist loan, pays a maximum amount of $2 million to businesses with military reservist essential employees. If a military reservist at your company is also an essential employee who gets called to active duty, you may be eligible for help through this program to assist with operating costs. The funds are not available to pay or refinance debt, or to cover income or lost profits.

15. Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E)

The VA’s VR&E program helps veterans with service-connected disabilities find help getting back into the workforce or starting a business. The program can also fund VA small business loans for veteran entrepreneurs.

Veterans will need to have a disability rating with the VA or are going through the process to get approved. They can also have a VA memorandum rating of 20% or more or be entered into the Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES). The veteran’s business will also need to meet qualifications for funding.

16. Veteran Entrepreneur Portal

As a veteran business owner, you can access the Veteran Entrepreneur Portal offered by the VA. This portal can help you access funding, like VA small business loans, working capital, or microloans that your business may qualify for. The free service also provides several resources for a veteran-owned business to learn more about starting and growing a successful company.

Business Grants and Loans for Military Veterans

Help exists for military veterans who wish to start a business after serving their country. Both the VA and SBA provide several financing options, including loans and grants, that veterans can benefit from. Organizations designed specifically for assisting veterans can also be good sources of funding opportunities.

Use the Veteran Entrepreneur Portal for supportive resources, training programs, and funding options. You can also visit your local Veterans Service Organization to connect with more opportunities.

The U.S. government recognizes the sacrifices that veterans and their families make by serving in the armed forces, and provides several benefits and services to honor their service. Veterans are eligible to receive retirement benefits, life insurance, VA health care, disability compensation, education benefits, and employment assistance.

If you or a family member have served in the armed forces, Reserves, or National Guard, you are likely eligible for one or more VA employment benefits.

7 Employment Benefits for Veterans

1. VR&E Program
2. Career Counseling
3. Veteran-Owned Small Business Benefits
4. VA Transition Assistance
5. CareerScope Assessment
6. VA Employment Benefits for Family Members
7. Job Search

Depending on your length of service, discharge record, disability rating, and level of need, the VA has a number of job-related services available. These range from programs that begin when you’re still enlisted, to transitional services for those ending their service, to vocational support and training during your civilian life.

The VA offers seven main programs for military veterans to start or resume a successful career after they transition to civilian life.

1. VR&E Program

The Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program is designed for past service members and veterans who have a service-connected disability. It was originally called the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment program.

VR&E provides services to disabled veterans who may need help to find and maintain work, or to live independently due to the limitations imposed by their disability. VR&E also works directly with employers helping them implement best practices that attract and retain veteran employees. Through training and support, employers establish an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that helps both eligible employees and their families with any issues standing in the way of their job success.

VR&E Eligibility

To be eligible for this program, you must have received an other than dishonorable discharge and you must have a VA disability rating of at least 10%. You can still apply if you don’t have a disability rating yet, but you will have to be evaluated after submitting your application for VR&E benefits. To do this, fill out the VA Vocational Rehabilitation, “Getting Ahead After You Get Out” (VA Form 28-0588), and submit it along with your VR&E application.

Those who currently have a disability rating can apply online through the VA, in person at your local VA regional office, with the help of VA employees or a Veterans Service Officer (VSO), or by mail by filling out and submitting VA Form 28-1900 to the following address:

Department of Veterans Affairs
VR&E Intake Center
PO Box 5210
Janesville, WI

VR&E is broken into five tracks depending on the veteran’s individual needs. They all have slightly different focuses and criteria for eligibility.

Reemployment Track

The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), passed in 1994, ensures that a veteran’s past military service won’t affect their transition back into civilian employment. Those who have been disabled due to their time in active duty often need extra support and rehabilitation to reenter their previous line of employment after they’ve been discharged.

Those wishing to return to their previous job can work directly with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) who can support both the veteran and their employer’s human resources department.

Rapid Access to Employment Track

This program is for military veterans who wish to find employment as quickly as possible after their discharge, typically using their current skillset, though some additional training may be provided.

Services may include counseling, help with completing applications or resumes, and testing of existing abilities or aptitudes to try to find the best job to fit your skills. This track is ideal for those who already have the necessary experience to compete for their preferred jobs or require only minimal training.

Self-Employment

Veterans who are interested in starting their own business can get assistance through the self-employment track. Here you can find support developing your business concept, drafting a business plan, implementing your new business, as well as counseling and training for topics related to small business like marketing, operations, and financing.

Veterans with the most severe disabilities may also be able to obtain funding to purchase equipment or machinery necessary for their new business as well as funding for business licenses.

Employment Through Long-Term Services

This track is designed for veterans who wish to change their career path and seek employment in a sector different from their pre-deployment work. VR&E provides counseling and skill assessment, training and education for the newly chosen field of work, and access to employment opportunities like apprenticeships, internships, work-study, and volunteer work. The ultimate goal is to become a long-term employee with a competitive wage.

Independent Living Services

Those with disabilities severe enough to limit their ability to live on their own or return to work immediately may qualify for the independent living track. This program provides a range of services from rehabilitation, connections to community support, to improving access within the home through assistance devices and equipment.

The ultimate goal of the Independent Living Services track is to eventually move into part or full-time employment and become regular employees who can live independently. This track often leads to others within the scope of VR&E when the veteran is ready for vocational training or further education.

2. Career Counseling

The Personalized Career Planning and Guidance (PCPG) program provides education and career counseling as well as resume assistance and goal planning. PCPG helps military veterans discover their employment and educational options post-discharge, and works with them to better understand their current skill set, goals, and interests to decide the best path forward.

This service is available to those who have been discharged within the last 12 months, those who are currently on active duty service who will be discharged in the next six months, or those who are eligible for or are currently receiving VA educational benefits. A veteran’s spouse and dependents may also make use of this benefit.

3. Veteran-Owned Small Business Benefits

The Vets First Verification Program allows veteran-owned small businesses to access resources, support, and preference on bids to some government contracts. This service is available to those who served in all branches of the military and received other than dishonorable discharge. Those who served in the Reserves or National Guard may also qualify if they were injured or disabled in connection with their military service or if they were called to active duty.

To be eligible, your business must be registered with the Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) and the owner of the business must meet several criteria. The qualifying veteran must own at least 51% of the business, control the day-to-day operations, work full time, and usually be the highest paid individual in the company, and have the business experience needed to run the company.

4. VA Transition Assistance

The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) starts while service members are still on active duty to help prepare them for the transition to civilian life. Services include counseling, education about various VA programs and how to take part in them, how to access benefits for themselves and their family members, and how to sign up and qualify for disability insurance and disability compensation. TAP typically starts one year before you’ve been discharged or two years from retirement. Most veterans begin this program with a day-long, in-person course put on by the VA called “VA Benefits and Services.”

Additional training resources offered through TAP are the Employment Fundamentals of Career Transition (EFCT) to aid veterans in finding employment in the civilian sector, and the Department of Labor Employment Workshop (DOLEW), which focuses on how to perform job searches, how to write a resume, and how to improve interview skills.

Additionally, Career and Credential Exploration (C2E) provides an assessment of aptitudes and skills to help service members find new career paths after they’re discharged.

5. CareerScope Assessment

CareerScope is a self-administered online tool available through the GI Bill for veterans who are having trouble finding their career path after their service. This easy-to-access program assesses your skills, interests, and aptitudes to help you discover new career opportunities that fit your existing capabilities.

After your assessment, CareerScope suggests different employment opportunities as well as training courses that you may need to access the new career path. This tool is available to veterans, dependents, or current service members already receiving VA educational benefits.

6. VA Employment Benefits for Family Members

The VA recognizes the need for family members of veterans with service-connected disabilities. This allows the veteran’s spouse and (in some cases) dependents to gain access to employment benefits.

Family members are also transitioning from military to civilian life, and need resources to locate new job opportunities and training courses. Family members have access to the Personalized Career Planning and Guidance Program (PCPG) for counseling in both education and career goals.

7. Job Search

Veterans who have already received support through a VR&E track or another VA employment program may need further assistance with their job search. Veterans who are ready to start job hunting immediately after discharge can also turn to the VA for help with their job search.

The VA offers access to job centers across the country to view postings, grants, training resources, or federal employee jobs – some of which may be within the VA itself. The VA’s job search resources can help you find and prioritize jobs no matter what you’re looking for. Some veterans seek part-time employment, while others hope to become full-time employees with a company that offers employee benefits for the entire family like paid sick leave, retirement, and health care.

Many veterans are also entitled to preferential treatment over their civilian counterparts when applying to federal jobs. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) oversees this entitlement benefit although not all veterans will qualify.

Typically, those who served during wartime, were disabled as a result of their military service, and who received other than dishonorable discharge will qualify for this benefit. Applicants are given a “point” preference from 0 to 10. Those with the most severe service-connected disabilities or recipients of the Purple Heart receive the highest ranking.

Employment Benefits for Veterans

Many veterans experience stress and uncertainty when they face the end of their service period. Service members often leave careers and education behind to serve their country. Understandably, reentering civilian life can be jarring.

If you are a veteran having trouble entering the job market, you don’t have to do it alone. Contact the VA today or visit your local VA facility to talk about the employment obstacles you are facing so you can get the resources and benefits you deserve.

The U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to ensuring the best possible physical and mental health for America’s veterans. The VA devotes considerable resources each year to ensure that veterans have access to a wide variety of health care options.

If you are a U.S. military veteran, it’s certainly worth your time to familiarize yourself with the full range of health care resources the VA makes available to you. Today’s veterans receive a comprehensive medical benefits package, which generally is administered through the VA’s patient enrollment program.

10 VA Health Benefits for Veterans

The VA administers many different programs designed to make sure eligible veterans have access to health care coverage for high quality physical and mental health resources. We’ve outlined some of the most common health insurance benefits below:

1. Mental Health Services
2. Women Veterans Health Care
3. Preventive Care
4. Inpatient Hospital Services
5. Outpatient Care
6. Social Work Services
7. Urgent and Emergency Care
8. Community Care
9. Long-Term Care
10. Prescription Drugs

Through the Veterans Health Administration, the VA offers a range of health care services and health insurance options for eligible veterans. The VA operates a network of 168 medical centers, more than 1,000 outpatient clinics, 250 brick-and-mortar pharmacies, and seven mail-order pharmacies – which deliver roughly 80% of the program’s prescriptions. The VA employs more than 200,000 health care professionals to care for America’s veterans, including doctors, pharmacists, and other providers.

The VA health system covers approximately 9 million of the roughly 22 million veterans across the country.

1. Mental Health Services

The VA offers mental health services for veterans that include treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, psychological effects of military sexual trauma, depression, grief, substance abuse, and other needs. Services may take the form of therapy, peer support with other veterans, medication, counseling, or a combination of any of these. The VA’s goal is for the veteran to actively participate in shaping the course of treatment. More than 1.7 U.S. veterans take advantage of these services each year. It’s also important to note that mental health services are available to all U.S. veterans, regardless of whether they are enrolled in VA health insurance. Veterans have access to some mental health services, regardless of their enrollment status or eligibility, discharge status, or active duty service history.

To access these vital mental health services, a veteran may call or visit any VA medical center at any time during the day or night, call or visit their nearest VA health facility, or call or visit any Vet Center during its regularly scheduled clinic hours.

VA-provided mental health services also encompass the veterans crisis line: 800-273-8255. Help is available 24 hours a day for veterans who need immediate assistance with acute mental health needs. The crisis line is staffed by qualified crisis line responders, many of whom also are veterans themselves.

2. Women Veterans Health Care

Women are the fastest-growing group within America’s veteran population and have unique health care needs. Women who qualify for VA health insurance have access to high-quality women’s health services including birth control, preconception counseling, and menopausal support. Cervical cancer screens and breast cancer screens are also available, as well as general services, disease prevention, and nutrition counseling.

Women veterans can receive maternity care and other reproductive health services and treatment for sexual issues, urinary incontinence, and many other physical and mental health conditions.

Each VA medical center has at least one Women Veterans Program Manager, who can help women veterans understand and connect to the health resources they’re eligible for. In some cases, even if a woman veteran isn’t currently enrolled in VA health care benefits, she may still be eligible for some resources under the umbrella of women veterans health care.

3. Preventive Care

The VA strives to provide veterans with the tools they need to stay healthy and avoid illness or injury. Part of that process is good preventive care. The VA covers preventive care services, including regular health exams/check-ups, health and nutrition education, immunization against infectious diseases like the flu, and genetic counseling.

4. Inpatient Hospital Services

VA health insurance covers a veteran’s inpatient hospital services, including most surgeries and in-hospital medical treatments, and kidney dialysis. Most acute care is also covered for short-term, in-hospital treatment for severe injury or illness, or recovery after surgery. This may also include specialized care like organ transplants, intensive care treatment for both mental and physical health conditions, and intensive care for traumatic injuries.

In addition, through the VA’s specialty care services, eligible veterans have access to a wide array of specialized treatments ranging from bariatric surgery and dermatology to orthopedic surgery, organ transplants, and robotic-assisted surgeries.

5. Outpatient Care

Outpatient care typically covers medical services or tests that are carried out in a medical center without requiring the veteran to stay overnight. Many outpatient clinic procedures can be completed in just a few hours. This type of care may include diagnostic tests, such as lab tests, MRI or CT scans, wellness and prevention activities like weight-loss programs and counseling, some minor surgeries, chemotherapy, and rehabilitative services like physical or occupational therapy or drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

Many times, outpatient services can be accessed through VA community-based outpatient clinics or VetCenters.

6. Social Work Services

The VA typically provides the assistance of social workers as part of all patient treatment programs, including community outpatient clinics. These essential members of a patient’s medical team provide both social and clinical services to eligible veterans and their families, helping process the social, emotional, and economic stresses that accompany illness. Social workers may help veterans through individual, group, or family treatment as they move through their continuum of care.

In addition, VA patient advocates are positioned to advise veterans and their families who may need foreign language services to help them fully understand their health care benefits, medical conditions, and treatment plans.

7. Urgent and Emergency Care

VA health insurance coverage typically encompasses urgent and/or emergency care at VA facilities. In addition, care received for injuries and illnesses that need immediate attention, but aren’t life threatening, from urgent care locations that are part of the VA’s approved network of health care partners.

These partners may include walk-in retail health clinics – for minor illnesses like an earache or upper respiratory infection – or urgent care facilities for more concerning, but not life-threatening, illnesses or injuries that require treatment. These types of situations may include a need for wound care, splinting or casting, etc.

In some cases, emergency care received in a non-VA hospital, clinic, or other medical setting may also be covered under VA health insurance.

8. Community Care

In most cases, the VA prefers to cover medical services and procedures that are accessed through VA medical facilities. However, in some cases, this may not be possible, depending on the veteran and the specific medical needs involved. In these cases, the VA may cover care through another provider in the veteran’s local community.

Typically, a veteran must request approval from the VA before receiving care from a community provider to avoid being billed for any medical services accessed. VA staff members make eligibility determinations for community care.

To be eligible for community care, a veteran must either be enrolled in VA health care or be eligible for VA health insurance without needing to enroll. In addition, the VA will consider the veteran’s specific health circumstances and specific needs.

There typically are six circumstances that may automatically qualify a veteran for community care, as follow:

• The veteran’s medical condition requires a service not available in a VA health care facility
• The veteran lives in an area not serviced by a VA health care facility
• The veteran qualifies under the Grandfather Provision of distance eligibility for VCP
• The VA is unable to provide care within specified drive time and wait time standards
• Seeing a community provider is in the veteran’s best medical interests
• A VA service line cannot meet quality standards

Eligible veterans can make an appointment with a community provider within the VA’s approved network and receive necessary medical care. The community provider will send the bill for services to a third-party administrator or directly to the VA for payment.

9. Long-Term Care

VA health care services also help eligible veterans access long-term and residential health care. Such services include round-the-clock nursing care, pain management, and physical therapy. The VA also provides assistance with day-to-day tasks including bathing, dressing, taking medicine, and preparing meals.

Support is available for caregivers who may need skilled medical assistance or a break from caregiving so they can work, travel, or run errands.

The setting for this type of care may vary widely. Some services may be available in VA health facilities, while others may be accessed through state or community organizations that the VA has inspected and approved. Other services may be offered in the veteran’s own home using VA-approved health care providers.

To be found eligible for these health care benefits, the veteran must be enrolled in VA health care, and the VA must have determined that the veteran requires a specific service to advance ongoing treatment and personal care.

10. Prescription Drugs

All eligible veterans who enroll in VA health coverage also may receive coverage for prescription drugs – these prescriptions may be filled through the VA, through a civilian pharmacy, or by mail. There is no premium associated with this coverage, and co-payments are approximately $8 – the VA also may cap copayments for some veterans. With VA-provided digital tools, eligible veterans also may refill VA prescriptions, track shipping and delivery, and even create lists to organize medications online.

Eligibility Requirements for VA Health Benefits

Eligibility for VA medical benefits depends on several factors. First, the VA will consider active duty military service. Generally, veterans who served in the active military and received a discharge other than dishonorable will be eligible for VA health care benefits.

In addition, veterans who enlisted after September 7, 1980, or began active duty service after October 16, 1981, must have served 24 continuous months or the full duration for which they were called to active duty, with the following exceptions:

• The veteran separated from military service because of a disability that was caused or exacerbated by active-duty service
• The veteran separated from military service due to a hardship or “early out”
• The veteran served in the U.S. military prior to September 7, 1980

Higher Priority Groups

If any of the following are true, a veteran may be placed into a higher priority group, meaning they are more likely to be approved for VA medical benefits:

• The veteran receives disability compensation from the VA for a service-connected disability
• The veteran separated from service because of a disability resulting from service
• The veteran was discharged for a disability that became worse during the time of service
• The veteran is a recently discharged combat veteran
• The veteran receives a VA pension
• The veteran is a former prisoner of war
• The veteran has received a Purple Heart
• The veteran is a Medal of Honor recipient
• The veteran receives or qualifies for Medicaid benefits
• The veteran served in Vietnam between January 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975
• The veteran served in Southwest Asia during the Gulf War between August 2, 1990, and November 11, 1998
• The veteran completed at least 30 days of service at Camp Lejeune between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987

Applying for VA Health Benefits

The VA makes it easy to apply for VA medical benefits in several different ways. The easiest way is to apply for your VA benefits online. You also may apply over the phone at 877-222-8387, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you apply over the phone, you can talk through the process with someone and get assistance with your application.

You can also apply by mail by downloading and completing the Application for Health Benefits. Once complete, you can mail it to the following address:

You also may apply for your VA health care benefits in person – simply bring your completed application to your nearest VA hospital or clinic, or your state’s Department of Veterans Affairs.

What Happens After I Apply for VA Health Benefits?

After you submit your application, you should hear back within a week to learn whether your application has been approved. Once approved, you’ll also receive a welcome call from the VA, along with a welcome packet including a handbook and your VA medical benefits ID card. At that point, you will be able to begin making medical appointments and receiving the medical services and care you need.