Why isn't my wife eligible for VA Benefits, even though she served 1979-1985?

2023-07-05T21:45:44-04:00

My wife decided after 40 years to apply to VA for some benefits. She says she was told that since she was not a "Combat Veteran" (she served from 1979 to 1985 – 3 years active and 3 years individual reserve) she could not receive benefits through VA. It wasn’t a military person speaking to her, but was one of their many contract telephone responders.
I have never heard of such a thing ever before and if I remember correctly (I retired after 20 so the question never came up for me) when she enlisted the VA would have given her % benefits for any service related issues.
It doesn’t seem right that now that she needs them (eyesight, hearing, and arthritis meds) and would like to receive them someone is saying she is “not eligible”.

UPDATE: My wife got fed up and has involved our US Representative. It appears that she is 'suddenly' able to get care. She has several VA appointments lined up for treatment and medical determination - which is much farther along than she was 'allowed' before their intervention.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2023 10:01 PM

2023-07-05T22:01:34-04:00

SFC Ralph E Kelley When I called the VA many years ago, I was told that the VA did not treat Vietnam Veterans. Your wife should be entitled to VA care. You might contact a VFW or DAV Veteran Service Officer (VSO) to have them help. Good luck.

https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/priority-groups/

https://www.va.gov/disability/get-help-filing-claim/#:~:text=Go%20to%20eBenefits%20to%20find,code%2C%20or%20the%20organization%27s%20name.&text=Or%20search%20the%20VA%20Office,%2C%20state%2C%20or%20zip%20code.

VA priority groups | Veterans Affairs

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Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2023 10:19 PM

2023-07-05T22:19:25-04:00

Yea, that's not right. Contact a VSO to get assistance.

Response by COL Randall C. made Jul 5 at 2023 11:01 PM

2023-07-05T23:01:24-04:00

The VA has a number of benefits and the eligibility can be different for each of them. She's not a "Veteran who served during a wartime period" because she was between when the period for Vietnam ended (May 7, 1975) and the start of the next one (Gulf War - August 2, 1990), so that would exclude her from things like a Veterans Pension (served during a wartime period and meet income requirements),

For disability compensation, it is pretty cut and dried - you have a service connected illness/injury and you were discharged honorably (Honorable or General under Honorable conditions).

Now to your overall question - will the VA help out with medical care and prescriptions for your wife. The answer is "it depends". From what you described, it sounds like she should be eligible* for VA Healthcare (she entered active duty prior to 7 September, 1980 and/or she spent two years on active duty).

However, there is a difference between being eligible for VA healthcare and being eligible for FREE VA healthcare. There are no premiums for VA Healthcare, but there may be co-pays depending on which priority group you are in. If she has NO service connected disabilities (even one rated as 0% which is what the VA deems a service-connected condition, but is a non-compensable disability), then she would be in priority groups 7 or 8 most likely - and they have a co-pay for treatment*.

** UPDATE **
Based on some of the comments below, it's clear I should have discussed the subgroups of those placed in Priority Group 8, specifically subgroups 'e' and 'g'.

If you're are assigned to priority group 8 because you don't fit into any of the other priority groups*, you're assigned to different 'subgroups' depending if you have a non-compensable service-connected disability rated at 0% and your income.

If your income is above 10% of the VA's geographical income limits* you're placed in subgroup 'e' or 'g' and won't be eligible for health care for any non-service-connected conditions.

So, bottom line - if you new to VA health care, aren't in one of the other priority groups because of your situation (served in certain combat theaters, eligible for certain programs, etc.), don't have a compensable service-connected condition, and are more than 10% above the geographical income limits, then you aren't currently eligible for treatment of non-service-connected conditions.
--------------------------------------------------
* Eligibility - https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/
* Apply for VA Health Care - https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
* Co-pay rates - https://www.va.gov/health-care/copay-rates/
* Priority Groups - https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/priority-groups/
* Check VA income limits - https://www.va.gov/health-care/income-limits/introduction

Eligibility for VA health care | Veterans Affairs

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Response by SGT Gerald “Jerry” Harrell made Jul 5 at 2023 11:16 PM

2023-07-05T23:16:11-04:00

I was told that I didn’t qualify for VA benefits for the same reason and that I made too much money (at the time I applied). I was asked if I had any service related disabilities and I told them of my hearing, tinnitus, and Sleep Apnea. I filed for those but was only rated for tinnitus. It is one of the smallest rated disabilities but it entitles you to VA Medical Benefits. Not sure of her MOS, however the tinnitus was awarded because I was in the Military Police. You have to fight with the VA if you don’t have something specifically listed in your medical records but with persistence you can finally make progress. The on site Vetrans Advocate got me started. But you can also go through the local DAV for assistance.

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Jul 6 at 2023 12:27 AM

2023-07-06T00:27:21-04:00

Most Counties will have a Veterans Service Office in their County Office building. Recently My wife, a veteran, and I as a retiree went to see the VSO at our county of residence. She was a tremendous advocate for both of us and it turned out to be life-changing.
Go to the Veterans Service Office in your home county. That is what they are there for. They work with the VA but not for the VA. Our County VSO had access to our files, filled out or assisted in the filling out of needed forms and submitted them for us. She went above and beyond and I say again it changed our lives 100%.
It had been 21 years since my wife got out of the Army, we had her Medical records (If youhave those, take them to the appointment, along witht he DD214, and if you do not have the Medical records, go anyway and start the process, while you request the records) My wife has had her physicals and is awaiting her determination.
I am not saying it will be fast, but it is worth the attempt, and what is the worst they can say? No. After all, she has not filed a VA Calim since 1985, so even if it takes a while, the outcome could be tremendous.
You, as well, should have your records reviewed by the VSO. Things change all the time.

Response by SPC Lori Davis made Jul 6 at 2023 12:38 AM

2023-07-06T00:38:01-04:00

No reason not keep applying I served 79-85 I got benefits go somewhere else to apply vfw

Response by SPC James Neidig made Jul 6 at 2023 1:52 AM

2023-07-06T01:52:24-04:00

Go See A VSO ! All Honorable Discharge Veterans Qualify For Some VA Benefits !

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Jul 6 at 2023 8:24 AM

2023-07-06T08:24:42-04:00

I would question what services she was asking for when the representative said she wasn't eligible.

Here is the VA eligibility website. There are different services that have different levels of eligibility respectfully.

If you have time I would just head to the VA to register and get things rolling. She may not qualify for everything but she certainly qualifies for certain things.

https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/

Eligibility for VA health care | Veterans Affairs

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Response by SPC Lori Davis made Jul 6 at 2023 11:08 AM

2023-07-06T11:08:33-04:00

Even if she does not qualify for receiving money she should still hav access to Va medical since she served. Just go to Va and apply. Yes your out of pocket deductible will be there maybe pay 8 dollars for meds depending on your income, for specialty clinics at Va may pay 50 for visit but still you can be seen by Va my husband and I both served Cold War era we still use Va for all our medical. You served it’s yours to use.

Response by CPT Kenneth Losey made Jul 14 at 2023 4:32 PM

2023-07-14T16:32:43-04:00

Was there a determination that her issues were service connected or was she medically discharged? Not sure of all the details and rules, but the only reason I am eligible for VA medical benefits is my medical discharge with a disability rating. My eight years of service would not have qualified me for medical benefits without that medical discharge and disability rating from a Physical Evaluation Board. Nor would my current eyesight, hearing, and arthritis issues qualify me without that disability rating because they are not service connected. They are age-connected - I just turned 66 last Sunday.

Response by SFC Barbara Layman made Aug 17 at 2023 12:02 PM

2023-08-17T12:02:50-04:00

The information she was given is incorrect. She may be eligible for benefits based on service, income and others. Her eligibility for the GI Bill educational benefit expired 10 years after separation.

Contact your local State Dept of Veterans Affairs Counselor. Each county usually has one who is him/herself often a veteran. They will be able to provide the correct information.

My service was initially 1965/6 and later continuous from 1973-2007. I am receiving minimal benefits based on that service which is combined active, guard and reserve.

Response by LCpl Rex Grigg made Aug 28 at 2023 1:01 PM

2023-08-28T13:01:01-04:00

What "benefits" are you looking for? If it's just health care then take your DD214 to the local VA hospital and sign up. It's as simple as that.
I can tell you though that glasses at Costco are MUCH less expensive than the VA glasses.
You need to do some research on VA priority groups also. These determine copays and access.

If it's disability payments you're looking for then call a VSO, I use the DAV, and start a claim.

Response by CPT Kurk Harris made Sep 8 at 2023 4:44 PM

2023-09-08T16:44:41-04:00

She needs to get service connected disability to qualify for care. She is eligible for some programs, but few medical benefits without service connection disability.

Response by Sgt Mervyn Russell made Sep 11 at 2023 7:31 AM

2023-09-11T07:31:45-04:00

I'm rated at 100 percent, I am also approaching the end of my life. My wife is retired and is drawing her SS. can my wife continue to draw my disability when I'm gone? Her SS is not enough for her to live on.

Response by Sgt Tod Evans made Sep 12 at 2023 8:03 AM

2023-09-12T08:03:49-04:00

I served in the Marines from 1979-1983 and have also been told I don’t qualify for VA healthcare benefits. I spent 6 mos in Camp Lejune in 1980 and still don’t qualify because I don’t actively have one the PACT Act or Camp Lejune conditions. I was basically poisoned for those 6 mos and don’t even qualify for monitoring of one of those conditions. My dealings with the VA haven’t been pleasant, a bunch of unhappy people who’s primary goal is to keep benefits from deserving honorable veterans!

Response by SPC Vernon Trexler made Sep 12 at 2023 8:54 AM

2023-09-12T08:54:07-04:00

she can register at VA.without a rating there is likely co-pays.. all veterans are eligible for VA care disabled or not

Response by CPT Dawn Olson made Oct 13 at 2023 10:30 PM

2023-10-13T22:30:42-04:00

Being a “combat” veteran or not, she should not have been denied simply for that reason. She can still get on the “rolls” whether she’s eligible right now or not - some non service connected veterans are told they “make too much money”, but things change. If not satisfied with the answer from the VA, check with a Veterans Service Officer in the county. They can usually help!

Response by CH (LTC) Carl Pfeiffer made Oct 16 at 2023 1:43 PM

2023-10-16T13:43:40-04:00

My suggestion is start online at https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ This will allow her to begin the process online. This gets her in the system. As others have said she should then contact a local VSO to line up any service-related health issues. The VSO can help identify any potential nexus from something that happened in service to a current health issue. If the first VSO does not work out, don't give up! Remember also that there is more to your VA benefits than health care.

How to apply for VA health care | Veterans Affairs

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Response by SrA David Naden made Oct 16 at 2023 9:31 PM

2023-10-16T21:31:06-04:00

The information provided to you and your spouse is NOT correct. I served from 1884-1989, I am NOT a combat vet, and I DO have VA healthcare. She needs to apply, and unless she can establish any service-connected disability, she will most likely be place in the lowest priority groups of 7 or 8 (the only difference is total income) and may have to pay co-pays. If your spouse can establish any disabilities, she would be service-connected, and at 30% or more, would be eligible for a higher priority group.

Response by Sgt Margaret Henshaw made Oct 18 at 2023 7:35 PM

2023-10-18T19:35:02-04:00

I recall looking into VA medical benefits because there is a VA hospital near me. If I recall correctly, I make too much money and have no service connected disabilities. So, there!

Response by CPT Bruce Valoris made Oct 19 at 2023 3:56 AM

2023-10-19T03:56:54-04:00

I wouldn't worry about it. I am a 70% disabled Vietnam Veteran and supposedly have VA Health Care benefits. I went to get an appointment at our VA Medical Center here in Pensacola and been waiting for 3 months to hear back from them and was told they are waiting for doctors. Still waiting for my first appointment which may never come. Luckily I have some health insurance so I will have to go to a private doctor and pay for my insurance or I might be dead before I hear back from the VA. Get some private insurance and forget the VA Medical care.

Response by SGT Ronald Lawrence made Oct 19 at 2023 4:14 AM

2023-10-19T04:14:08-04:00

The short answer is yes! I served active duty during the same period 1977 thru 1986 in the US ARMY and afterwards in the US ARMY RESERVES(active) and IRR 1986 thru 1991. I filed a claim(service connected) in 1986 at 0% and didn't return to a VA facility for 30yrs. I eventually returned and submitted another claim with the help of an VSO representative and shortly thereafter, to my surprise, I received a benefit award of 10% for the same original medical reason as I first claimed and didn't follow up. I continue to file claims over the years for separate issues and I received the appropriate, warranted compensation. I shot myself in the foot for not following up years prior to my initial claim! I recommend the use of an advocate such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and my favorite is the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). The VA administration should also be able to establish your claims after and during enrollment for medical benefits. You are most likely eligible for benefits, at the least, you and all Veterans should be eligible for VA health care due to your years of honorable service. I hope this helps a fellow Veteran. P.S. DON'T GIVE UP!!!

Response by PO3 Doug Freyburger made Oct 19 at 2023 10:51 AM

2023-10-19T10:51:52-04:00

The current threshold for VA medical coverage is 180 days of active duty after recruit training and technical schools.

That threshold has changed over the years. My enlistment was in 1978. That was close enough to Vietnam they were desperate to get people to enlist. I was qualified the day I got out of recruit training no matter how soon I transferred to the reserves.

Your wife doesn't even need to look up her era. She was active duty longer than the current threshold of 180 days. She should sign up for VA health care right now.

US law is strange that each benefit has its own legal definition for veteran. You can apply for one benefit and be a veteran. Then you can apply for the next benefit and not be a veteran. This is beyond our ability to understand so just look up the benefit then look up its legal definition. There are likely to be benefits only available to combat veterans.

The best known ones like VA medical care and VA home loans are available much more broadly available. Your wife definitely qualifies for both of those.

Response by PO1 Frank Downs made Oct 20 at 2023 3:37 PM

2023-10-20T15:37:22-04:00

When I entered the service there were two VA benefits 1) 20 years and you get benefits 2) service connected.
I never heard that just because you served you got benefits (takes away the need to retire), I’ve known people who have done 14 years got out with nothing.

Response by PO2 Stephen Brownell made Oct 20 at 2023 4:06 PM

2023-10-20T16:06:22-04:00

Someone who's never served it goes right out of the playbook that they have it is called top sheet

Response by SSG Sharon Fields made Nov 20 at 2023 10:24 AM

2023-11-20T10:24:13-05:00

I would say your wife needs to speak to her counties service rep or someone like that who can walk her through every step of the way. She would definitely be covered for VA healthcare just not FREE healthcare. They will have you fill out financial paperwork and base the copays on that. I do have a 30% VA disability and if I am seen for something concerning that I have no charge but if I go out for something else like say I have a cyst I want removed, then it’s just a copay but I can still get it taken care of there. I believe hearing aides are free for all veterans but that may have changed since the last time I checked it. I do know you are eligible for things like W/C’s, walkers, chair lifts etc for free. I am an occupational therapist and have sent many of my Veteran patients out to the VA for free equipment when they could not afford it through their Medicare B. I have also been told by therapists at the VA that if a veteran owns their own home and has stairs in it that they can no longer go up and down for health reasons the VA will provide a chair lift free of cost to keep them in their own home. That is huge for many folks. Have her keep trying as someone is giving her a run around. And once she is in the system make sure she goes out for a general checkup at least once a year to keep her paperwork active and they don’t loose track of her. You too.

Response by Cpl Dara Ea made Nov 21 at 2023 8:13 AM

2023-11-21T08:13:16-05:00

I have VA coverage with no service related rate. It has never been used because I have another coverage from private sector. I have tried to use VA health a couple times but decline to proceed because I really don't see it better than what I already have. Seeing the copay scares me. So i don't see me using VA health coverage any time soon.

Response by WO1 Dean Casey made Dec 16 at 2023 3:32 PM

2023-12-16T15:32:44-05:00

I retired as a Veterans Service office after 10 years. For VA benifts during active duty it is any injury, illness or disease that occurred during that time or when in Guard/Reserves called to active duty. A lot of Service Office confuse rules for Pension. Have her go to either American Legion or VFW Dept Service Officer..

Response by CPL Stephen Hemmert made Dec 19 at 2023 8:10 PM

2023-12-19T20:10:30-05:00

My wife is an army veteran (1969-1971). She has no service connected disability. Note, there is nothing to prevent your wife from having incurred a service connected disability, non-combat. My wife is not eligible for VA health care because our income is in excess of the statutory cut-off. My wife served at Fort McClellan, AL and was exposed to Agent Orange toxins. Under the PACT Act the VA is suppose to establish a registry which it has not. She was told by the VA to file a claim for disability, but that will be denied. My wife is 72 and she'll pass away before anything is done for WAC's who served back then. Note: I have been told by numerous VA counselors, if a person files a claim for any condition the VA is obligated to treat that disease/illness even though the vet's claim will be denied. File a claim for each illness and the VA will have to treat her because the VA cannot prove it is NOT service connected. I am an 80% service connected vet with PH w/OALC

Response by Mary Markovich made Dec 21 at 2023 9:08 PM

2023-12-21T21:08:31-05:00

Pension and Compensation have different eligibility and entitlement requirements, which are set by Congress. You may want to seek the advice of VA accredited attorney. VSOs do a nice job of completling and submitting paperwork to the VA, but they are not trained litigators and cannot appeal a VA denial of benefits with oral arguments and appellate briefs.

VSO employees may not be VA employees, but they are paid with federal grants. The source of VSO's income is the same source of income for VA employees. VA accredited Agents and Attorneys are not paid anything from federal grants. They receive no money, unless the Claimant receives an award.

You wife's dates of service make her ineligible for Pension, but she may be eligible for service-connected Compensation. A VA accredited attorney may find evidence in her military records that connects her arthritis with something that happened in service.

Response by PFC Clifford Kelley made Jan 12 at 2024 6:09 AM

2024-01-12T06:09:33-05:00

I had a friend who shall remain nameless that once worked for the VA and said it was made very clear that their unofficial orders were to deny, deny, deny! And if you can't find a reason to deny lose the paperwork and keep making them reapply. I served 84 to 88 Had a TBI rightbeforemy ETS. Was told I could receive a medical discharge do to a seizure. Being young and dumb I opted to just ride my last few weeks out on profile. Years later the seizures got worse so I applied for my disability. Was repeatedly told that my records burned in the fire of 76. When I pointed out the fact that I didn't even go in until 84 they told me it didn't matter because their records showed that my records burned in 76. I continued Appealing until I was told that I couldn't. Not knowing who to turn to I stopped trying for years until I received another TBI and the seizures started happening multiple times a day. That is when I contacted Chet Edwards. He told me who I needed to talk to. So finally in 05 I received my 100% rating. Do not believe anything the VA says. Despite what you are told they are not their for you unless they are forced to be!

Response by SGT Juan Robledo made Jan 23 at 2024 8:04 AM

2024-01-23T08:04:03-05:00

She's eligible, don't listen to whomever said that, but she should've applied after she left the Military, 40 year's later, apply and see what happens and go from there

Response by SPC Juanita Anderson made Jan 24 at 2024 1:17 AM

2024-01-24T01:17:19-05:00

You need to recheck. They were reading a script in front of them. Plus there war going on at that time.

Response by PO2 Jaime Lazarus made Jan 24 at 2024 11:23 AM

2024-01-24T11:23:51-05:00

I'm in the same boat in which your wife was (served 1975-1979) and was told I hadn't requested VA medical coverage in time. It took NAVPERS 5 years to get me my medical records, the so-called "first step" in what it takes to get the VA to reverse their "No coverage" policy. By then I aged out to where I am now covered by Medicare. What a shame - that the VA didn't do what they should have done for your wife - without her having to get a politician involved.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2024 1:57 PM

2024-01-25T13:57:56-05:00

I applied for VA BENEFITS AND WAS SENT A LETTER TELLING ME I MADE TOO MUCH MONEY. I enlisted in 1979 and got out in 1983

Response by SGT Kathy Dean made Jan 26 at 2024 3:49 AM

2024-01-26T03:49:21-05:00

Response by Sgt Steve Williams made Jan 26 at 2024 7:09 AM

2024-01-26T07:09:41-05:00

I'm happy she finally got the benefits, but it took far too long. The question they asked was "Did you serve in combat?" They should have only asked, "Did you serve".

Like the rest of us, she served where they sent her.

Response by 1SG John Millan made Jan 27 at 2024 1:37 PM

2024-01-27T13:37:17-05:00

Needs service connection.

Response by MSgt Janice Trojan made Jan 28 at 2024 12:03 AM

2024-01-28T00:03:08-05:00

If she served active had had no bad condact discharge(which I assume) she can have VA benefits. Thank her for her service. A reminder to all, Medicare has a co pay, VA is paid in full. Also, billing can not arbitruarly change VA to medicare becuase it pays faster.

Response by PO3 Ted G made Feb 7 at 2024 10:05 AM

2024-02-07T10:05:25-05:00

You should look into the VA policy of Deny, Deny, Deny until the veteran dies. You have to stay on the VA and keep after them to get anything out of them, once your approved your in alright shape, but if they decide to reopen your claim they can again deny you and put back through the approval process. It is not a lot of fun. I had a bowel resection done by the VA and they periodically check to see if it grew back and I am suddenly cured.

Response by SSG Juan Garza made Feb 27 at 2024 6:27 AM

2024-02-27T06:27:08-05:00

From my understanding you do not have to have served in combat to be eligible for VA benefits, as long as you were not dishonorably discharged. My ex wife served 5 years in the early 90s and she receives benefits. Glad it worked out for you and your family.

Response by PO3 Michael Wiedenhoeft-Wilder made Feb 29 at 2024 11:08 AM

2024-02-29T11:08:11-05:00

Of course she’s eligible for medical benefits. She’s not eligible for a pension but if she’s suffering from a military (physical or mental) injury that could change. That VA representative you originally talked to needs more training.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Feb 29 at 2024 2:15 PM

2024-02-29T14:15:48-05:00

She needs to go find a VSO in AMVETS or VFW or Legion and let them work the case. My father was in the National Guard and was mobilized once and he sees a doc every year for a checkup, gets his hearing aids and glasses through them, and his meds at a extremely discounted cost. She should be eligible for the basics just need to find the right VSO to go fight for her and help her get what she deserves.

Response by PO1 Billy Wilson made Mar 3 at 2024 11:39 AM

2024-03-03T11:39:53-05:00

You can do this!!! My experiences with VSO was nothing short of a nightmare. They become jaded from 100 veterans a month. Please go here as a starting point. https://www.reddit.com/r/VeteransBenefits/ then watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXL2wuHXp7M&lc=Ugyxbbn0cgfI22pTX8B4AaABAg

Blocked

Response by TSgt Ken Vandevoort made Mar 3 at 2024 2:55 PM

2024-03-03T14:55:45-05:00

I went into the VA healthcare system in 2007 when I lost my job, had a gall bladder attack and had no insurance. I am Cat 8. That means my healthcare provider costs $15 per visit, anything else is a $50 copay. Most prescriptions are $8 for a 30 day supply. They have furnished a CPAP and send supplies annually, blood pressure cuff, eye glasses, etc. at no cost. If you can schedule several appointments on the same day, the total is $50.

I have Medicare parts A & B, but the VA doesn't take them and I have never used them. I am better off having no insurance. I did purchase a Delta Dental plan through the VA and it is a good price as the pool is so large.

I have had my clinic P.A. for 15 years and he treats you like you are his only patient. I have never run into an unkind person at the clinic or hospital. I could get some things done locally due to driving time, but it is worth it to make the drive.

Salute to the Iowa City hospital and the Coralville clinic. They are the best.

Response by PO1 Billy Wilson made Mar 3 at 2024 8:18 PM

2024-03-03T20:18:27-05:00

I made the mistake of of getting my rep into my claim it slows everything down. The only place they really help is getting a faster copy of your C-files.

Response by LCpl Kenneth Heath made Mar 4 at 2024 4:05 PM

2024-03-04T16:05:04-05:00

I served 1982-1985 and had VA Benefits from the day I got home with my DD-214. They required me to keep them updated on any health insurance I had through my civilian jobs, (so they could bill them, of course, just like any other hospital would). 'Cold War Veterans' are still Veterans! I'd suggest you talk to someone who really knows and can get you the straight scoop.

Response by Charlotte Armwood made Mar 7 at 2024 4:59 AM

2024-03-07T04:59:25-05:00

what benefits are allowed to spouse after a divorce ?

Response by SCPO Rick Hunter made Mar 7 at 2024 3:22 PM

2024-03-07T15:22:14-05:00

I'm glad to hear your wife is getting the benefits she earned. I'm also glad to hear your US Representative was willing to assist you. Mine was as useless as a collier ship in today's Navy.

Response by Amn Derek Casanares made Apr 12 at 2024 9:49 PM

2024-04-12T21:49:06-04:00

Sure your wife is a veteran and there are several things that your wife should be eligible for just by being a veteran.

Response by SGT Juan Robledo made May 13 at 2024 5:17 PM

2024-05-13T17:17:45-04:00

She should be, even though she wasn't in a Combat directly, she was in during Greneda, don't allow anyone to misguide you and your wife, my question is why did she go so long without ever submitting a Claim, at the very least you got the ball rolling and I wish her the very best

Response by Sgt Hollie Landram made May 14 at 2024 6:37 PM

2024-05-14T18:37:03-04:00

It's amazing what happens when you involve a senator, isn't it?

Response by PO3 Kerry Cooper made May 16 at 2024 9:49 AM

2024-05-16T09:49:50-04:00

Sounds like that first person she spoke with wasn't trained very well. It's a shame she was made to be so frustrated. And I hope her care is at it should be at her chosen VAMC or CBOC treatment center.

Response by PO2 Frederick Deraney made May 17 at 2024 11:46 PM

2024-05-17T23:46:10-04:00

That is false! Whoever told her she was not eligible for benefits doesn't know what they are talking about. For VA purposes the term "Veteran" means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable.

Response by PO1 H Gene Lawrence made May 28 at 2024 4:31 PM

2024-05-28T16:31:20-04:00

Good for her perseverance.

Response by SPC Matt Ovaska made Jun 3 at 2024 6:44 AM

2024-06-03T06:44:39-04:00

In 1970 , several combat vets and I were told after 2 weeks, by a gal at Palm Beach Jr. Col., that the VA wasn't paying for our education any more. Then she said," Get the hell off my campus." We left.

Response by SGT Beth Day made Jun 7 at 2024 4:58 PM

2024-06-07T16:58:43-04:00

Because the benefits for Cols War veterans suck. That's blunt and honest. If you were post vietnam era and pre-911, if you didn't retire, you might as well be invisible.
Having said that, I enjoyed my time in for the most part and happily collected my pittance. I got to experience stuff I wouldn't have gotten to do otherwise. But yeah, the benefit issue is a bummer.

Response by CPO Kurt Baschab made Jun 16 at 2024 3:20 AM

2024-06-16T03:20:33-04:00

I would not listen to contract telephone responders, I find they are wrong about 80% of the Time,
that just my Experience.

for example, when I was retiring and going to my Taps class, we had a VA Representative that was very good at his job, he shared a lot of good Knowledge that I passed on to my Brother who had served two tour in Vietnam , I had to Argue & Convince my Brother who is a Vietnam Combat Vet that he was entitled to his VA Benefits, all because of a VA contract telephone responders who told my brother he was not eligible for his VA Benefits due to the fact he waited to long to apply for the benefits' he was entitled to.

Once I finaly convinced my Brother to contact the VFW OR DAV & to have the Representative pull his Military PDR & Medical Records , once the DAV rep received his PDR & Medical records, my Brother sat down with the Representative and did his paper work,
after he Reviewed it with him, he submitted his VA Disability paper work for him. PS: he got his benefits. Like I said he would, he was shocked because the telephone responders told him he was not Eligible to receive any of his VA Benefits, because he waited to long after he got out of his Military Service, I believe the telephone responders did one of two things, they purposely Lied, or were not properly trained.

this is why , I Recommend she goes to a DAV, VFW, OR A AMERRICAN LEGION Representative, just a FYI, some city's have hired former Military personal to help vets, do the paper work, that the VA Requires . they would be found at city hall ,

I my self like the VFW, OR DAV PERSONAL, they can be found at any VFW OR DAV POST, OR AT MOST VA Building.
THAT BEING STATED I RECOMMEND SHE CALL HER CLOSEST VA And ask if they have a VFW, OR DAV REP WORKING THERE, IF THEY DO CONTACT THE OFFICE AND MAKE A APOINTMENT .

Once you have Sign the proper paper work giving the Representative the power to pull your Medical & PDR Records from the Military Archives, this will allow the Representative to go though THE PDR & Medical records, After the Representative reviews her Records and before he is to submit the proper paper work , he will sit down with her and review it with her to ensure he found everything, if she is ok with the clam for her Disability Rating, she will Sign and submit to VA.

once the Representative has Finished writing up her disability clam,
the Representative will contact her & set a date & time so they can sit down with her and tell her if she has any service connected illness/injury Surgeries or Benefits or a disability rating coming to her.
HE will go though all the paper work and review it with her and have her sign the paper work if she is in agreement with the Representative, once it is submitted , it a waiting game
the Sooner she gets this started the better

Response by Amn Robert DiBerardino made Jul 1 at 2024 9:15 PM

2024-07-01T21:15:33-04:00

It’s who you know, has always been that way! Probably always will.

Response by SSG Calvin Grant made Jul 2 at 2024 1:58 PM

2024-07-02T13:58:30-04:00

First receiving a % benefit is a new process. I retired in 2001 and it wasn’t available. Second often veterans make the mistake of applying for VA health care instead of filing a claim for disability and it’s mostly because they don’t believe there’s anything wrong with them. You can be denied VA health care if you’re just applying for that because it becomes based off of income. File disability claim, that is your key as a veteran to VA health care. Whoever told her that should be fired b

Response by Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna made Jul 19 at 2024 1:30 AM

2024-07-19T01:30:51-04:00

As Marine Veteran, Think Woman who Was Restricted to be Around War Area (prior 1984) we are Denied most percentage then men…
Men shoes “WAR” & handed 100%..
Even some show a Picture which Dies Not Show Face (back) saying it was Them with Gear & get 50% off the bat!..
Us woman didn’t take pictures in Uniform…
It has to be Hospital visit, clinic visit or medical emergency..

Response by Sgt Jon Mcvay made Jul 22 at 2024 4:31 AM

2024-07-22T04:31:59-04:00

Sir, I really am sorry for the hassle the VA gave her. Sadly it’s just starting. Proving that the military caused her problems all goes back to her medical files while she was in. That is why I was told if you get a paper cut go to the aid station. Get it on record, get a copy, file it, save it till you die. Most importantly when anyone gets out first day go to the VA hospital and apply. No income rules to get under.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2024 4:03 PM

2024-07-22T16:03:15-04:00

surprising

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Jul 22 at 2024 8:01 PM

2024-07-22T20:01:49-04:00

As a veteran you may be eligible for:

VA Disability Compensation
VA Medical Benefits
VA Home Loan
VA Education Benefits
VA Pension
Readjustment Counseling
Educational and Career Counseling
Confidential Counseling and Support
Federal Hiring Preference
Discounts
State Specific Benefits
VA Burial Allowance
VA Headstone or Marker
Burial Flag
Burial in VA Cemetery
Burial in Arlington National Cemetery (if awarded Purple Heart, or Silver Star and above)
Inurnment in Arlington National Cemetery
Burial at Sea
Presidential Memorial Certificate
Stay on Top of Your Veteran Benefits
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Response by Cpl George Matousek made Aug 23 at 2024 2:04 PM

2024-08-23T14:04:04-04:00

Does not seem correct for me, maybe call the VA directly. Semper Fi

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Aug 29 at 2024 9:06 AM

2024-08-29T09:06:19-04:00

Wrong answer. She is!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2024 10:50 AM

2024-10-22T10:50:15-04:00

It will still be income driven until she can get a VA disability rating. I was active duty and served from 1978 to 1986. I was in a group that required me to do copays. I made "too much money" to qualify for VA benefits but could use the VA with copays. Look to see what group she has been place in. I was a group 8. I also was given low priority for appointments for those that had a disability rating. I got with the DAV and was able to get help filing for disability. I filed in May of 2019. Covid hit and all exams shut down. Once they opened back up in Texas (I lived in New Mexico at the time and had to use the Amarillo VA) in August of 2020 I got my first disability appointment. I was finally awarded 100% on December 2020. I was back paid to May of 19. I was a VA RN for 5 years, so I do know the ins and outs of this process. It can be long and require appointments with providers outside of the VA. They will pay for those trips including milage and meals if they are longer than a few miles or hours away. Some can be done via telehealth or phone, but most were in person.

Response by CWO3 Robert Fong made Oct 31 at 2024 10:46 AM

2024-10-31T10:46:51-04:00

SGT, if she served more than 90 days on AD and had either a compensable or non-compensable service connected illness or injury she would be eligible. The "free" medical cut off is 70%. Once she is adjudicated the door swings open for her.