Millions of Americans have made the decision to serve in the Armed Forces of the United States. This group of people consists of service members, both young and old, some who served a long time ago and others who are currently on duty. Choosing to make this sacrifice is an honorable course, and your fellow citizens can never repay that sacrifice with enough gratitude.
However, although this country has a long way to go in caring for those who have served in the armed forces, there are several perks to being a veteran. Primarily, these benefits are provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Some of these benefits are geared toward re-integrating you into regular society again, while others are meant to provide care if you have been injured during your service. Here are a few of the benefits that you can enjoy as a veteran of the US military.
Disability Benefits
Military service can be dangerous and often causes injuries or illnesses. Sometimes, you may have had a condition that grew much worse during your time in the military. Either way, the Department of Veterans Affairs has a program to support you if you have a service-related injury or illness. The VA disability benefits program offers tax-free monthly payments to help you cover medical bills and personal expenses. The higher your disability rating, the greater your payments can be. Some of the easiest things to claim VA disability benefits for include tinnitus, PTSD, and limitation of flexion in the knee. If you are eligible, consider filing a claim to start receiving your monthly payments.
Career Counseling
Getting back into civilian life can be a tough transition for veterans. Many people around you cannot relate to your situation, and some of the skills you have acquired do not always translate to a typical career. However, the government wants you to have a smooth transition to civilian life by being able to find a job that suits your skill set. Both active-duty service members and veterans may be eligible for free educational and career counseling, and this could be just what you need to get a head start on the next phase of life.
VA Home Loans
Buying a house is often one of the most significant life goals for an individual. However, especially with a market that is highly volatile, affording one can be difficult in 2024. With VA home loans, veterans can significantly lower the cost of owning a home so that it is more manageable. The key features of VA home loans are that there is no down payment requirement, no private mortgage insurance, and more competitive interest rates. Add these all together and the average home is far more affordable for veterans than other civilians.
VA Health Care
Certain veterans are eligible for up to 10 years of free health care through the VA. This can be incredibly helpful, especially if you have health care needs due to a service-related injury or illness such as hearing loss. Free health care is a perk that many would be thrilled about, and as you get older, your health needs tend to increase. This is especially true if your military service has had an impact on your physical or emotional health.
Small Business Support
Veterans of the military have typically learned many applicable skills during their service. In many cases, these individuals want to start their own businesses when they return to civilian life to take advantage of the discipline and skills they have acquired. The perks of registering your small business as a veteran include tax relief, access to capital, educational resources, and priority when bidding on government contracts. This support could help jumpstart your new business and make it a long-term success.
Life Insurance Policies
If you have a family, then a life insurance policy can ensure that they are financially secure in the event of your death. Veterans have access to certain life insurance policies through the Department of Veterans Affairs, many of which guarantee significant benefits to the family at the time of their death. This program can provide peace of mind as you look toward the future of your family and their well-being.
Let This Country Reward You for Your Service
Although your sacrifice can never be repaid fully, your fellow citizens are grateful for your service. This is why the VA is committed to serving veterans and providing for their needs so that transitioning back to civilian life is a little easier. With benefits like the VA disability program, career counseling, VA home loans, health care, small business support, and life insurance policies, you can enjoy the perks of being a veteran.
