VETERANS BENEFITS NEWSLETTER June 2021
HOW TO GET A VIRTUAL APPEAL HEARING
Veterans can appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) without leaving home! Just like a virtual doctor appointment, all you need is Wi-Fi and a phone, laptop, or tablet. By meeting virtually, BVA can be more efficient and increase the number of hearings available.
HOMEOWNER’S GUIDE TO HURRICANE SEASON
Do you know how to protect your home during hurricane season? Find out how to get help if you have a VA-backed home loan or VA housing grant and your house is damaged by a hurricane, flood, or another natural disaster.
FAST ASSISTS FIDUCIARIES
VA’s fiduciary program protects Veterans and other beneficiaries who, due to injury, disease, or age, are unable to manage their financial affairs. Learn how the Fiduciary Accounting Submission Tool (FAST) makes the accounting process easier for fiduciaries.
VA BENEFITS FOR PTSD
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after exposure to extreme stress, such as combat, an assault, or a disaster. If you’re living with PTSD caused by military service, you may be entitled to VA disability benefits and compensation. Find out if you qualify and how to apply!
WATCH VA BENEFITS NEWS
Tune in to the latest episode of VA Benefits News (VBN)! Join the Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Benefits, Michael Frueh, to learn about initiatives and updates to benefits and services that directly impact you and your family.
COVID-19 FUNERAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is providing financial assistance for coronavirus-related funeral costs incurred after Jan. 20, 2020. VA has no role in this reimbursement program. If you have had COVID-19 burial expenses, learn how to apply for FEMA aid.
HIRING PLATFORM FOR VETERANS
Bridge My Return (BMR) can help you leverage your military skills in the job market. The free hiring platform connects you with employers and provides the tools and coaching necessary for private-sector success. Learn more about what BMR has to offer!
TAKE VA’S WHITE RIBBON PLEDGE
White Ribbon VA is a national call to action to eliminate sexual harassment, sexual assault, and domestic violence across VA. Everyone can help by pledging to never commit, condone, or remain silent about all forms of violence. Please join your fellow Veterans and VA employees across the country and take the White Ribbon VA pledge.
OPERATION VETCARE IS HERE TO HELP
Operation VetCare, a project of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS), is here to help Veterans, service members, and their families who are facing special challenges as a result of their military service. Open to all branches of the Armed Forces, VetCare may be able to help you with emergency home or car repairs. You could even receive gift cards to purchase, food, clothing, and other necessary items! LEAR MORE!
YOU ARE NOT ALONE, CONNECT WITH CARE NOW If you’re a Veteran in crisis or you know someone who is, get help right away. You’re not alone!
US Department of Veterans Affairs
Veterans Benefits Administration · 810 Vermont Avenue, NW ·
Washington, DC 20420 · 1-800-827-1000