FEDERAL BENEFITS. A CLEARER STARTING POINT.

Ironsight Veteran
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Informational matching, not an eligibility decision; agencies decide. Selected federal programs only—not every federal benefit. Explore state resources in the separate directory below; coverage gaps are disclosed there. Local eligibility is not determined.

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Your benefits, your pace.

Explore 63 federal programs and resources across 15 categories.

STATE RESOURCES

Explore your state’s Veteran Benefits

Find state programs alongside your federal benefits. Residency periods, disability definitions and application rules vary.

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Need help now?

Veterans Crisis Line: call 988, then press 1. For immediate danger, call 911.

Housing crisis: 877-424-3838 — VA’s National Call Center for Homeless Veterans.

Official care resources

About this guide, privacy and source maintenance

Who built this

Built and reviewed by Nathan Harlan, a U.S. Army Infantry veteran with 15 years of service, including two combat deployments to Iraq, and the founder of Ironsight Syndicate, a veteran-owned brand. I built this because finding the right benefits shouldn't take a law degree. This is an independent guide, not VA-accredited claims representation. For claims help, use a VA-accredited representative.

Coverage: 63 selected federal benefits, programs and official help resources in 15 categories. This is a practical starting point, not an exhaustive federal inventory. The separate state directory discloses its own coverage; local benefits, precise dollar estimates, medical determinations, loan underwriting and individual entitlement are outside scope. Some programs require information this tool deliberately does not collect.

Your answers never leave your device. We don't save them, and refreshing the page erases them. PDF downloads need no signup. An optional email subscription is separate from your answers. Ordinary hosting access logs may contain standard request information, but no questionnaire answers.

The checked date means the listed official source was reviewed for this release, not that an agency verified your eligibility. Records are structured with stable IDs, rule-source links and verification notes for future manual maintenance. Quarterly manual review is the maintenance policy; the visible review notice identifies the last review date and outstanding coverage gaps.

Ironsight Syndicate is an independent veteran-owned brand. This guide is not affiliated with or endorsed by VA or any federal agency. For accredited claims help, use VA’s official representative directory. No nonprofit/VSO endorsement is implied.

Browse all 63 federal programs — complete readable directory

These pages work without the questionnaire. Agencies decide eligibility.

Disability

VA disability compensation

Tax-free compensation for an illness or injury caused or aggravated by qualifying military service.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

A current condition, qualifying service, service connection and VA decision are required. OTH/bad-conduct cases may need VA character-of-discharge review; a rating alone is not proof of every benefit.

Next step: Review evidence and official filing instructions.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗Related guide: How to file a VA claim without the chaos ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Disability

Additional compensation for dependents

An eligible spouse, child or dependent parent may increase disability compensation.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Requires entitlement to disability compensation and a combined rating of at least 30%; relationship, age/school, disability or parent financial criteria apply.

Next step: Review which dependents qualify and submit the required claim.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Disability

Individual Unemployability

May pay compensation at the 100% rate when service-connected disabilities prevent substantially gainful employment.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

VA usually requires one disability at 60%, or one at 40% with a combined 70%. Lower-rating exceptions exist. Combined rating alone does not establish eligibility; employment and disability evidence matter. IU does not change the underlying rating or automatically establish P&T.

Next step: Review the evidence and VA Forms 21-8940 and 21-4192.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Healthcare & mental health

VA health care enrollment

Medical services for veterans meeting VA service, discharge and enrollment rules.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Minimum service rules and exceptions apply. Guard/Reserve generally need qualifying federal active duty, not training alone. Rating is not required for all paths. Toxic-exposure expansion still requires basic service/discharge eligibility. OTH is not an automatic denial.

Next step: Apply and let VA determine enrollment and priority group.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Healthcare & mental health

VA mental health and crisis resources

Counseling, treatment, peer support and crisis connections.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Some services are available without VA enrollment. Emergency help and the Veterans Crisis Line are available regardless of discharge status. Ongoing care depends on the service and individual circumstances.

Next step: For immediate crisis help call 988 then select 1; otherwise contact a VA facility or Vet Center.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Healthcare & mental health

Vet Center readjustment counseling

Confidential counseling and readjustment support for eligible veterans, service members and families.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

No VA healthcare enrollment or compensation is required; qualifying combat/service experiences and other eligibility routes still apply.

Next step: Contact a Vet Center to review eligibility and counseling needs.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Healthcare & mental health

Military sexual trauma care

VA treatment for physical or mental health effects of military sexual trauma.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

VA offers free MST-related treatment; reporting at the time or proof that the experience occurred is not required to get care. Contact the coordinator to review care access without entering sensitive details here.

Next step: Ask a VA facility for its MST coordinator.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Dental

VA dental care

Dental care under specific VA eligibility classes.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

A non-temporary 100% service-connected rating or qualifying IU can support Class IV. P&T is not the dental requirement. Other classes cover dental trauma, compensable dental conditions, certain VR&E care and time-limited post-discharge treatment; VA decides the class.

Next step: Review the dental benefit classes and contact VA dental services.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Dental

VA Dental Insurance Program

Discounted private dental insurance for eligible enrollees.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Veterans must be enrolled in VA healthcare, or eligible family members must be enrolled in CHAMPVA. Premiums and copays apply; this is not free VA dental treatment.

Next step: Compare the plans linked by VA.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Pension

Veterans Pension

Income-based pension for qualifying wartime veterans meeting age or disability criteria.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

VA checks qualifying wartime service, minimum service, discharge, household income and net worth. Age 65, permanent and total disability, qualifying nursing-home care, SSDI or SSI can satisfy the age/disability condition. P&T alone does not establish pension entitlement.

Next step: Review current service and financial rules; apply through VA.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Pension

Pension Aid and Attendance or Housebound

An added pension amount for qualifying personal-care needs or being housebound.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Requires qualifying VA pension entitlement plus specified care/medical circumstances; the two additions cannot be paid together. A disability percentage alone does not establish eligibility.

Next step: Review medical evidence and VA Form 21-2680.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Transportation & accessibility

VA healthcare travel reimbursement

May reimburse travel for qualifying VA or VA-approved care.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

A 30% rating is one route, but lower-rated veterans traveling for a service-connected condition and other groups may qualify. Approval, expense and filing rules apply; some travel needs preapproval. Normally file within 30 days.

Next step: Keep receipts and review preapproval and claim rules.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Transportation & accessibility

Automobile allowance and adaptive equipment

Assistance buying or adapting a vehicle for specific qualifying disabilities.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Specific service-connected loss/use, vision, burn, ALS or joint criteria apply; ankylosis of knees/hips qualifies for adaptive equipment only. Rating alone is insufficient. Get VA approval before buying.

Next step: Review condition-specific rules and apply before purchase.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Disability

VA clothing allowance

Annual assistance when a service-connected device or skin medicine damages clothing.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

A qualifying service-connected condition and damaging device/medicine are required. Application and timing rules apply; a disability rating alone is insufficient.

Next step: Review the application process and annual qualification date.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Records & claims help

VA character-of-discharge review

A VA determination can open access to benefits for some less-than-honorable discharges.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

OTH or bad-conduct is not a blanket exclusion. VA examines discharge circumstances and statutory/regulatory bars. The VA determination does not change the military discharge.

Next step: Apply for the relevant benefit and ask VA about review or accredited help.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Healthcare & mental health

Care resources with an OTH discharge

Certain care may be available even without regular VA healthcare enrollment.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Possible services include rated service-connected care, MST care, certain mental-health care, emergency mental-health services and Vet Centers. Program-specific conditions apply. VA encourages OTH veterans to apply for healthcare.

Next step: Contact VA or a Vet Center to ask about the care pathway.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Records & claims help

VA-accredited claims assistance

Find an accredited VSO representative, attorney or claims agent to help with claims or reviews.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Use VA’s accredited-representative search and appointment process. VSO representation is free; attorneys/agents have specific fee rules. This website and independent coaching are not VA-accredited representation.

Next step: Find and verify accreditation through VA.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Disability

PACT Act and toxic-exposure pathways

Expanded healthcare and condition-specific presumptive compensation pathways.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Covered conditions, locations, exposure and service periods vary; era alone is not proof of entitlement. VA checks basic eligibility and the relevant presumption. No diagnosis or exposure details are collected here.

Next step: Review the official condition and service lists and consider applying.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗Related guide: How to file a VA claim without the chaos ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Healthcare & mental health

CHAMPVA for eligible family members

Cost-sharing healthcare for certain spouses, children and survivors.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

A veteran sponsor’s service-connected P&T determination is one pathway; a 100% rating without P&T alone is insufficient. Beneficiary must not qualify for TRICARE; dependent and Medicare rules apply. This is not automatically free family healthcare.

Next step: Review dependent/TRICARE/Medicare conditions and apply through VA.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Healthcare & mental health

VA long-term care and home support

Nursing-home, assisted-living and home/community care options.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

VA enrollment, clinical need, availability and program-specific criteria determine access. Costs may apply; not all facilities or services are covered for every veteran.

Next step: Ask a VA social worker about assessed needs and available programs.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Education & training

Post-9/11 GI Bill

Help with approved education and training costs.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Qualifying active service after September 10, 2001, discharge, remaining entitlement and program approval matter. Guard/Reserve orders differ; service era alone is not proof.

Next step: Review service and remaining entitlement before choosing a benefit.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Education & training

Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty

Education and training support under Chapter 30.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Generally requires honorable discharge and a qualifying enrollment/service category; contributions and benefit-use deadlines matter.

Next step: Ask VA to compare available education entitlements.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Education & training

Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve

Training and education help for qualifying Selected Reserve members.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Service obligation, initial training, education and good standing requirements apply. Eligibility usually ends on leaving Selected Reserve, with exceptions.

Next step: Request the Notice of Basic Eligibility from your unit.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Education & training

Transfer Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits

Eligible serving members may transfer education entitlement to dependents.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

DoD approves transfers while serving in active duty/Selected Reserve; service commitments and DEERS rules apply. A veteran cannot normally initiate a new transfer after separation.

Next step: Review transfer rules and request through milConnect while serving.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Education & training

Yellow Ribbon Program

Participating schools and VA may help cover tuition beyond GI Bill limits.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Requires the 100% Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit level or another qualifying route, a participating school and available places. VA disability rating is unrelated.

Next step: Bring your education COE to the school's certifying official.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Education & training

GI Bill apprenticeships and on-the-job training

Use eligible education benefits while learning an approved trade or job.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Requires GI Bill eligibility and an approved employer training program. Active-duty members and certain active-duty spouses cannot use this route.

Next step: Check employer approval with the GI Bill Comparison Tool.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Employment & career

Veteran Readiness and Employment

Employment planning, rehabilitation and possible training or independent living support.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Veterans may apply with at least 10% service-connected rating and qualifying discharge; a counselor determines entitlement and employment handicap. Time limits can apply to earlier separations; serving-member routes differ.

Next step: Apply for an evaluation; a rating alone does not establish entitlement.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Employment & career

VA educational and career counseling

Personalized planning, education guidance and resume support.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Education-benefit eligibility is one route; qualifying separation within one year or planned separation within six months can also qualify. Discharge conditions matter.

Next step: Review the timing routes and apply for Chapter 36 guidance.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗Related guide: Prepare for military separation ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Employment & career

DOL American Job Centers and veteran priority

Career planning, job search and training referrals through federally supported centers.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Veterans and eligible spouses receive priority in qualifying DOL-funded programs; each training program retains its own eligibility requirements.

Next step: Find a center and ask which veteran services and training routes apply.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Employment & career

Federal veterans' hiring preference

Preference in covered federal hiring for qualifying veterans.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Honorable/general discharge, qualifying active service or disability/medal routes and documentation matter. Not all service qualifies; preference never guarantees a job.

Next step: Read the announcement and prepare DD-214 and applicable preference documentation.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Employment & career

Veterans Recruitment Appointment

A noncompetitive federal hiring authority for eligible veterans.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Qualifying disability, campaign/medal or recent-separation route, honorable/general discharge and job qualifications apply. Active duty for training alone is insufficient.

Next step: Ask the hiring agency whether it uses VRA for a suitable position.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Employment & career

30% or more disabled veteran hiring authority

Agencies may make noncompetitive appointments under this authority.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Requires documented qualifying service-connected disability of at least 30%, honorable/general discharge and position qualifications; agency discretion applies.

Next step: Review jobs and ask the agency about this authority.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Small business

SBA Boots to Business / Reboot

Entrepreneurship education for military-connected people.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Boots to Business serves service members including Guard/Reserve and spouses; Reboot provides an off-installation route for veterans. Course access and registration vary.

Next step: Choose an installation course or the Reboot option.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Small business

Veterans Business Outreach Centers

SBA-supported business counseling, training and mentorship.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Supports veterans, service members, Guard/Reserve and military families interested in business. Counseling does not guarantee grants, loans or contracts.

Next step: Contact the VBOC serving your region.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Small business

SBA Veteran Small Business Certification

Certification opens qualifying veteran contracting opportunities.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Small-business size, veteran recognition and at least 51% qualifying ownership/control apply. SDVOSB status also requires qualifying service disability; certification is not a contract award.

Next step: Review ownership, control, size and SAM requirements before applying.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Disability

SSA expedited disability processing

Some military-connected disability claims receive faster processing.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

VA 100% P&T or disability beginning during active service on/after October 1, 2001 may qualify for expedited handling. SSA independently decides disability and work-history/financial eligibility.

Next step: Tell SSA about the qualifying status and ask about expedited processing.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Education & training

Federal student loan disability discharge

Potential discharge of eligible federal loans or TEACH service obligations.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

A VA determination of 100% service-connected disability or individual unemployability is a qualifying route; SSA and medical-certification routes also exist. Actual documentation and covered obligations matter.

Next step: Review qualifying documentation and the current discharge application.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Housing & homelessness

VA-backed home loans and Certificate of Eligibility

A VA guarantee can help finance a home purchase or eligible refinance.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Service length, activation type, discharge, credit, income and occupancy must be reviewed; a COE is not loan approval. Guard and Reserve pathways differ. VA can review an OTH or bad-conduct service record.

Next step: Request a COE, then discuss loan requirements with a lender.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Housing & homelessness

Native American Direct Loan

VA direct lending for qualifying homes on federal trust land.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Veteran or spouse must be Native American; tribal MOU, COE, credit, income and occupancy requirements apply.

Next step: Check tribal participation and contact a VA NADL coordinator.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Housing & homelessness

Specially Adapted Housing and Special Home Adaptation grants

Grants may help buy, build or adapt a home for specific service-connected disabilities.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Specific qualifying impairments and home ownership rules apply. A rating percentage or P&T status alone is insufficient; SHA and SAH criteria differ.

Next step: Review the qualifying impairments and apply through VA.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Housing & homelessness

Temporary Residence Adaptation grant

Adaptations to a family member's home where a qualifying Veteran lives temporarily.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Requires qualification for SAH or SHA and temporary residence in a family member's home. A high disability rating alone does not establish eligibility.

Next step: Ask VA about TRA when discussing SAH or SHA.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Housing & homelessness

VA help to avoid foreclosure

VA loan technicians can help review mortgage hardship options.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Counseling can be available to Veterans and surviving spouses even for a mortgage without a VA guarantee. Loan-specific relief has additional servicer and program requirements.

Next step: Contact your mortgage servicer promptly and a VA loan technician.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Housing & homelessness

National Call Center for Homeless Veterans

Confidential round-the-clock help connecting Veterans at risk of homelessness to local VA resources.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

A call is a connection to assistance, not a housing award or eligibility determination; specific programs have their own rules.

Next step: Call 877-424-3838 or use the official page's chat.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Housing & homelessness

HUD-VASH supportive housing

Rental vouchers paired with ongoing supportive services and case management.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Designed for Veterans experiencing homelessness who need intensive case management; VA and housing authorities assess program requirements and availability.

Next step: Contact VA homeless services for an assessment and referral.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Housing & homelessness

Supportive Services for Veteran Families

Federally funded providers offer rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention support.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Targets low-income Veteran families experiencing homelessness or imminent risk. Provider assessment, income and program conditions apply; this is not an individual grant application to VA.

Next step: Use VA's provider directory or call the homeless Veterans call center.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Insurance

Veterans Affairs Life Insurance (VALife)

Guaranteed-acceptance whole-life insurance up to $40,000 for veterans with a service-connected disability rating, including 0%. Premiums and a waiting period apply.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Most applicants must be age 80 or younger, with no application deadline after a VA rating. At age 81 or older, you must have applied for disability compensation before 81, received a rating for that same disability after 81, and apply for VALife within two years of notification. Full coverage begins after a two-year waiting period while premiums are paid. Confirm current premiums and policy rules with VA.

Next step: Review age conditions, premiums and waiting period before applying.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-09 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Insurance

Veterans' Group Life Insurance

An option to continue qualifying military life insurance after separation.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Prior SGLI or another qualifying pathway and enrollment deadlines apply. Health-review timing and premiums matter; transition status alone does not establish eligibility.

Next step: Review the separation deadlines immediately and apply through VA's linked administrator.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Insurance

Veterans' Mortgage Life Insurance

Mortgage protection for some Veterans with severe service-connected disabilities.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Requires an SAH grant, title to the home, a mortgage and application before age 70. Pays the lender rather than a personal beneficiary; premiums apply.

Next step: Ask your SAH loan guaranty agent about VMLI.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Burial & memorials

Burial in a VA national cemetery

Burial and related memorial benefits for qualifying Veterans and certain family members.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Discharge and minimum-service rules apply; Guard/Reserve eligibility has specific service, retirement or duty-related pathways. VA makes the eligibility decision.

Next step: Review service requirements and consider a pre-need determination.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Burial & memorials

Pre-need burial eligibility determination

Request a VA national cemetery eligibility decision before the time of need.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Does not reserve a specific gravesite or guarantee space at the preferred cemetery. Different processes apply after death and for Arlington or state/tribal cemeteries.

Next step: Apply on VA's official page; keep the decision with planning records.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Burial & memorials

Burial allowance and transportation reimbursement

May reimburse some funeral, burial and eligible transportation costs after a Veteran's death.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Relationship or payer status, non-reimbursement conditions, discharge, circumstances of death and filing timing affect eligibility. Not every Veteran's death qualifies.

Next step: Review the death circumstances and official claim instructions.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Records & claims help

Military service records and DD214

Request separation documents and other military records from the National Archives.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Access and identity requirements apply; VA generally requests your DD214 when processing a VA benefit application. Do not upload records into this finder.

Next step: Use the official eVetRecs or Standard Form 180 instructions.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Recreation

Federal recreational lands Military Lifetime or Annual Pass

Qualifying Veterans can obtain a lifetime military pass; current military and dependents may obtain an annual pass.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Veteran definition includes Guard and Reserve for this program. Required identification applies; camping, tours, reservations and other expanded fees are generally excluded.

Next step: Review accepted identification and pickup or online options.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Recreation

Federal recreational lands Access Pass

A lifetime pass for eligible U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Requires a medically determined permanent disability severely limiting a major life activity and accepted documentation. It does not require a 100% VA rating; a rating alone is not proof. Some expanded-amenity discounts may apply.

Next step: Review documentation and obtain a pass through an official provider.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Education & training

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Education Assistance (Chapter 35)

Education support for eligible spouses and children under Chapter 35.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

The P&T pathway requires a permanent and total service-connected determination, not a 100% rating alone. Other death, capture and missing-service pathways exist. Dependent and timing rules vary.

Next step: Review the sponsor and dependent eligibility pathways before applying.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Healthcare & mental health

Comprehensive assistance for family caregivers

Support for qualifying family caregivers, including training and possible additional assistance.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

VA requires a 70% or higher rating, qualifying discharge or medical-discharge date, enrollment and a continuous personal-care need of at least 6 months. Caregiver criteria and clinical review also apply; a rating alone is insufficient. General caregiver support may still be available.

Next step: Contact a VA caregiver support team and review the joint application.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Employment & career

Official VA separation and transition resources

Official guidance for service members separating or retiring and recently separated veterans.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Some programs are time-sensitive. BDD disability claims generally require filing 180 to 90 days before separation; insurance, dental and counseling windows differ. This questionnaire does not verify those deadlines.

Next step: Review official timing guidance and the Transition Assistance Program.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗Related guide: Prepare for military separation ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Other federal resources

USAGov military and veterans benefits directory

Official federal navigation for military pay, retirement, health, education and survivor resources.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

This is a directory, not a determination or one benefit. Follow each agency’s program rules. The Finder does not cover every federal benefit or state/local eligibility.

Next step: Use the official directory to explore programs beyond this Finder.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Military access & shopping

Uniformed Services ID (USID) for qualifying disabled veterans

A DoD identification pathway for veterans with a VA-documented 100% service-connected disability or qualifying 100% unemployability determination.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Requires qualifying discharge (honorable or general under honorable conditions) and VA evidence. Other service-connected ratings alone do not establish USID eligibility. DEERS/RAPIDS verifies documents and eligible dependents. USID or a VA rating does not automatically establish TRICARE entitlement. P&T and IU are separate determinations.

Next step: Contact a RAPIDS office through ID Card Office Online to confirm the required VA letter, service records and identity documents.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Military access & shopping

Military installation access for eligible veterans

Eligible veterans and designated caregivers can enroll for installation access using a VHIC or REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID; local security rules apply.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Since November 1, 2024, eligible veterans without a VHIC and approved PCAFC primary family caregivers may enroll at each installation visitor center with REAL ID-compliant identification. Identity, criminal/terrorism screening and electronic benefit eligibility checks apply. Use the same enrolled credential on later visits. The removal of paper documents for enrollment does not remove purchase requirements: veterans without VHICs and caregivers still need applicable printed VA eligibility documentation for commissary, exchange and authorized MWR services. Access is not unrestricted and local restrictions apply.

Next step: Contact the installation visitor center before traveling; confirm enrollment, accepted ID and purchase documentation.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗Related guide: Veterans commissary access ↗

Checked 2026-10-09 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Military access & shopping

Commissary shopping privileges

Grocery-shopping access for eligible service-connected veterans and other authorized patrons.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

VA lists honorably discharged veterans with a service-connected rating; a 100% rating is not required. Other pathways include retirees, former POWs and Purple Heart recipients. Bring accepted eligibility identification; overseas rules differ. Purchases are not free and commissary surcharges apply.

Next step: Review VA eligibility and identification guidance, then confirm installation entry and store requirements.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗Related guide: Veterans commissary access ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Military access & shopping

Military exchange shopping privileges

In-person exchange shopping for eligible service-connected veterans and other authorized patrons.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

A qualifying service-connected rating can support access below 100%; VA lists honorable discharge for this pathway. USID eligibility is a separate determination. Online-only veteran shopping does not establish base entry. Confirm eligibility documentation and overseas limitations.

Next step: Follow the official eligibility guidance and contact the exchange and installation before visiting.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗Related guide: Veterans commissary access ↗

Checked 2026-10-08 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Military access & shopping

Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) access

Eligible veterans and designated caregivers may use participating MWR retail and revenue-generating facilities, such as golf, bowling, camping and certain recreation lodging.

Who may qualify / eligibility caveats

Expanded access for service-connected veterans and designated caregivers does not cover every MWR program. Gyms, libraries and child care are excluded from this expanded-access category; pools and tickets depend on department policy, capacity and funding. Retirees and qualifying 100% service-connected disabled veterans may have broader privileges under separate eligibility rules. Installation vetting, facility rules and availability apply.

Next step: Ask the installation MWR office which activities your credential authorizes, current fees and reservation rules.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗Related guide: Veterans commissary access ↗

Checked 2026-10-09 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Common questions

Is this an eligibility decision?

No. This finder suggests programs worth exploring. Agencies decide eligibility using their own rules and your evidence.

Do you save my answers?

No. Your answers never leave your device. We don't save them, and refreshing the page erases them. Optional email signup is separate.

Does an OTH discharge rule me out of everything?

No. VA may conduct an individualized character-of-discharge review. Some care and other programs have different requirements. Use official guidance or a VA-accredited representative.

Who built this?

Nathan Harlan, a U.S. Army Infantry veteran with 15 years of service, including two combat deployments to Iraq, and founder of Ironsight Syndicate, a veteran-owned brand. This is independent guidance, not VA-accredited representation.

How often is it updated?

Resources are checked quarterly by manual review. Individual checked dates and coverage notes show the scope of each review. Not every listing has been independently verified.

Is this free and do I need to sign up?

The finder, directories and PDF downloads are free and require no signup. Email updates and shopping are optional.

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Common questions

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