ONLINE TOOLS FOR 21st CENTURY US VETERANS
Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project
Phase II Boundaries Report
January 31, 2010
Written by
Donald Overton
Richard S. Rogers
Jack Eastman
Bryon R. MacDonald
Carl Batten
With Conceptual Frameworks and Assistance from
John Tapogna
Disability Benefits 101 Information Services
California Work Incentives Initiative
www.db101.org
World Institute on Disability
510 16th Street, Suite 101
Oakland, California 94612
Phone 510-251-4304
Fax 510-763-4109
TTY 510-208-9493
The California Health Incentives Improvement Project (www.chiip.org) funds the Veterans’ Benefits
Online Tools Project to date. The California Health Incentives Improvement Project, in turn, is funded by
a Medicaid Infrastructure Grant (Number 1QACMS030313/01) from the Center for Medicare & Medicaid
Services of the US Department of Health and Human Services.
Acknowledgements
The California Health Incentives Improvement Project has provided continued funding to enable
the Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project to move forward without a break in development.
The Phase II Boundaries Report is a product of the veterans organization partners listed below
working collaboratively with Disability Benefits 101 Information Services (DB101). Principals
of the DB101 Core Team are ECONorthwest, Eightfold Way Consultants, and the World
Institute on Disability.
The veterans’ organizations and the DB 101 Core Team are pleased and proud to acknowledge:
Paul Miller
Chair, and Member of the
California Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities
Teddie-Joy Remhild
Chair, and Member of the
California State Independent Living Council
Kent Kjelstrom
Veterans Programs Coordinator
California Employment Development Department
Dr. Janice Emerzian
District Director, Disabled Students Programs
State Center Community College District, Fresno City College, Fresno, California
Dennis Petrie
Deputy Director, Workforce Services
California Employment Development Department
These public-service champions have collaborated with the project to provide extraordinary
outreach this year to veterans and to the disability community, to improve employment supports
for veterans of the United States Armed Forces. They honor our work with their support.
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
January 2010
The Phase II Boundaries Report Experts’ Panel
Donald Overton, Executive Director
Richard S. Rogers, Chief Financial Officer
Veterans of Modern Warfare (VMW), Washington, D.C.
Rick Weidman, Executive Director for Policy and Government Affairs
Thomas J. Berger, Ph.D., Executive Director, Veterans Health Council, and
Senior Advisor on Veterans Health
Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Washington, D.C.
Kent Kjelstrom, Veterans Programs Coordinator
California Employment Development Department, Sacramento, California
DB101 Information Services Core Team and Experts’ Panel Participants
John Tapogna, President
Carl Batten, Managing Director
ECONorthwest Economic Consultants, Portland, Oregon
Jack Eastman, Principal
Eightfold Way Consultants, Web Consultants, Berkeley, California
Bryon R. MacDonald, Program Director
Mason O’Neal, Program Analyst/Trainer
Silvia Kim, Projects Coordinator
California Work Incentives Initiative
World Institute on Disability, Oakland, California
Disability Benefits 101 (DB101) Information Services maintains web-based services designed to
improve access to employment and benefits for people with disabilities. Conceived and
developed within the disability community at the World Institute on Disability, DB101
Information Services provides crucial information, in plain language, on state and federal rules
and regulations for health coverage, benefits, and employment programs for people with
disabilities. Eightfold Way Consultants has served as the primary technical consultant to DB101
since 2002; ECONorthwest has been a partner in developing DB101’s benefits calculators since
2003.
Disclaimer
Any errors, omissions, opinions or bias of any kind are the sole responsibility of the DB101
Information Services authors and are not in any way a real or perceived responsibility of, or have
any connection to, the funder.
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
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Table of Contents
Acknowledgements ................................................................................................................ 2
The Phase II Boundaries Report Experts’ Panel ............................................................... 3
Table of Contents ................................................................................................................... 4
Executive Summary ............................................................................................................... 5
I. Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 7
II. Project History and Update ............................................................................................ 12
III. Program Selection Methodology ................................................................................... 16
Relevance: Program Categories That Support Employment ........................................... 16
Breadth and Depth ........................................................................................................... 17
Quantitative, Qualitative, and Informational Program Aspects...................................... 18
Target Audiences ............................................................................................................. 18
The Veterans’ Navigator Tool ......................................................................................... 18
The Benefits and Work Calculator................................................................................... 19
Program Interaction and Tools Design ........................................................................... 20
Rationale for Just in Time, Real-Time Information Services and Tools .......................... 20
IV. The Phase III Design and Production Process ............................................................... 22
Advisory Group ................................................................................................................ 22
Production ....................................................................................................................... 23
Appendix A: Program Summaries ....................................................................................... 27
Education and Training ................................................................................................... 27
Employment ..................................................................................................................... 32
Health............................................................................................................................... 39
Housing ............................................................................................................................ 70
Income Maintenance ........................................................................................................ 73
Independent Living and Family Support ......................................................................... 84
Appendix B: Matrix Program Aspects ................................................................................. 91
Health............................................................................................................................... 91
Income Maintenance ........................................................................................................ 94
Education and Training ................................................................................................... 96
Employment ..................................................................................................................... 96
Housing ............................................................................................................................ 97
Independent Living and Family Support ......................................................................... 98
Appendix C: Resources Directory ....................................................................................... 99
Data, Fact Sheets, Demographics, and Research ........................................................... 99
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
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Executive Summary
The recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have brought with them a marked increase in the
number of troops returning from combat with physical and mental disabilities. Those who apply
for various veterans’ benefits report their encounters with a complicated system with a maze of
interactions, bureaucratic barriers, and limited outreach. Given these circumstances, it is not
surprising that veterans are experiencing high rates of unemployment, poverty, and
homelessness. Our troops deserve better. In fact, they deserve nothing less than the same
opportunities to pursue the American dream that they’ve fought so hard to protect for their
fellow citizens.
To address this unacceptable and near chronic situation, the World Institute on Disability met six
times in the fall of 2008 with veterans and disability organizations. Their goal was to identify
specific barriers that veterans face when trying to access the benefits systems and transition to
civilian employment. They found daunting sets of rules, intricate interactions between programs,
a lack of a single place to turn to for information and resources, and service providers struggling
to navigate complex programs with handheld calculators and self-designed worksheets.
To solve these problems, they proposed creating an understandable, comprehensive, and
interactive website that allows veterans to take better control of their own benefits planning
process. Specifically, they suggested building two online tools. The first was an Online Veterans
Benefits Information Navigator, which would provide users with an individualized summary of
the programs most relevant to their situation based on their responses to a short survey. The
second tool was a Veterans’ Benefits and Work Calculator, which would allow veterans who
are receiving disability compensation to get credible and individualized estimates of how
working could affect their veterans and related benefits.
In February of 2009, WID convened a panel of experts to begin the research needed to design
these tools. Panel members brought years of experience in the fields of veterans benefits,
counseling, and online technology. They met throughout 2009 and gained input from a wide
range of veterans’ benefits organizations and experts. This Boundaries Report is an update on the
panel’s progress and proposes the framework for design, production and testing of the online
tools in Phase III of the project.
The panel accomplished four main objectives:
1. Definition of the scope of the online tools
2. Creation of an internal system for organizing the vast amounts of information necessary
to create the tools
3. Organization of the details on the programs of interest
4. Structure and plan for design, production and implementation of Phase III, to start in
2010.
One of the most challenging aspects of the panel’s work was to define the scope of the tools.
Which programs should they focus on? How much detail should they go into? Who should they
be geared towards? In answering these questions, the panel decided on two guiding principles.
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
5
The first of these was relevance: the covered programs should affect large numbers of veterans.
The second principle was to find a middle ground between superficially covering large numbers
of programs and delving into all of the details on just a few programs. These issues of relevance
and breadth vs. depth differ for the two tools. The Navigator, which will present 6-8 programs
of likely interest to users based on their personal input, will need to be able to pull from a wide
variety of succinct program descriptions. The Benefits and Work Calculator, on the other hand,
would become overwhelming if it asked users questions on too many programs; so the panel
decided to limit its main focus to the 9 most relevant benefit programs. The panel also decided to
expand the target audience to include family members and service providers.
In creating these tools, the panel realized that the designers would need information on dozens of
complex programs. The need for a well-organized system for entering and accessing program
information was readily apparent. In response, panel members designed an internal, web-based
information management system (the Matrix). For every program of interest, this system
includes basic program information, links to the source material, and a way of tracking internal
questions or discussions on particular details. For each program, it also lists the pieces of
information (for example income or marital status) that the Calculator or Navigator might need
from a user. This system is up and running and the experts continue to populate it with program
information.
Finally, the panel created a plan for the next phase of this project: implementation. The first step
will be to convene a Veterans Advisory Work Group, whose members will provide invaluable
technical assistance during all of the steps of the development of the online tools. During preproduction, WID’s Core Team will sketch out the design of the tools so that they can begin the
actual production phase with a fully worked-out site design and architecture. During production,
the actual content of the site will be written, from creating program descriptions to writing html
code. Once the tools are complete, they will undergo rigorous rounds of testing, first from
experts and then a wider range of users. Finally, the Core Team will roll out the product through
a series of Cross Agency Trainings. These trainings bring together service providers from
various organizations and agencies. They create an ideal environment for introducing online
tools to a wider audience and allow participants to meet each other and form lasting networks.
The networks the Core Team hopes to foster through these trainings are exactly the type of
collaborative efforts that has brought this project to this point. By pooling our collective
experiences and skills, we are creating online tools that will help veterans access the benefits,
services and timely civilian employment that they deserve after their years of active service.
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
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I.
Introduction
One result of the current Global War on Terrorism is the ongoing “surge” of returning troops to
their homes and communities across America.
Compared to prior conflicts, a markedly higher percentage of these warriors return with combatrelated disabilities and other long-term health conditions. As these newly minted veterans
transition to civilian status, they confront barriers to gainful employment and a reasonable and
rewarding quality of life that cries out for assistance from their communities – and not only from
government entities. This surge is exacerbating long-standing information outreach and service
deficits regarding veterans benefits and the successful transition to civilian life for those who
have donned the uniform and been placed in harm’s way in service to our nation.
This project has already reported a consensus finding from experts that the current state of
information outreach for veterans’ benefits needs immediate attention, review, and remedy.
The reality is that veterans with disabilities experience high rates of unemployment, poverty, and
homelessness.1, 2 Numerous factors hamper those agencies responsible for delivering needed
services to these veterans.

Claims for disability benefits from the VA increased 36% from 2000 to 2005 and the
backlog has never been higher.3

Program regulations are complicated and arcane, and there is a maze of interactions
among programs within and between agencies and jurisdictions.

The Army Times has reported that, because of the length of the disability claims process,
many disabled troops are falling into poverty before benefits they have earned by virtue
of their service arrive.4

Evidentiary hurdles make disability claims for such not uncommon conditions as PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) difficult to establish without expert help.5
1 Vital Mission: Ending Homelessness Among Veterans.
Homelessness Research Institute, 2007
http://www.endhomelessness.org/files/1839_file_Vital_Mission_Final.pdf
2
Mitigating Effect of Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefits for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder on Low
Income. Military Medicine, February 2005
3
Statement by Ronald Aument, Deputy Under Secretary for Benefits, Veterans Benefits Administration,
Department of Veterans Affairs, before the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, December 7, 2005.
http://www.va.gov/OCA/testimony/hvac/051207RA.asp
4
Troops risk ruin while awaiting benefit checks. Army Times, June 18, 2008
http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/06/ap_wounded_soldiers_061608/
5
Kathleen A. Tarr, Above and Beyond: Veterans Disabled by Military Service. Georgetown Journal on Poverty Law
and Policy, Vol. V, No. 1, p. 39 (1997)
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
7

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports that the VA has substantially
under spent in implementing its Mental Health Strategic Plan.6

Our project experts point out that the VA prohibits its employees by law from advising
veterans as to how best to prepare disability claims to optimize success of a claim.
As the stark numbers in the following data set suggest, employment outcomes decrease for
veterans with a higher compensation disability rating and status, and give new meaning to the
term “discouraged worker.”
Error! Reference source not found.
As military service personnel pay monthly FICA payroll taxes into Social Security, veterans with
disabilities in some instances are eligible for Social Security Administration (SSA) disability
benefits. Kregel (2008)7 studied the employment and benefits status of 2,943 veterans who
receive veterans’ disability compensation, Social Security disability benefits and who also
received services through the Social Security-funded network of Benefits Planning and
Assistance Programs.
The data highlights many of the challenges faced by veterans attempting to improve their
economic self-sufficiency. Key findings included:
Virginia Commonwealth University National BPAO Database
Individuals Receiving Both Veterans Benefits and SSA Benefits
Summary Findings
N = 2,943
Item
Percentage
Health Care Coverage
Medicare
65%
Medicaid
21%
Private Health Insurance
8%
Employment Status
Employed Full Time
3%
Employed Part Time
12%
Not Employed – Seeking Employment
71%
Not Employed – Not Seeking Employment
14%
SOURCE: August 2005 Veterans supplement, Current Population Survey, Bureau of Labor
Educational Status
Statistics
Plans to Seek Additional Education or
22%
6
VA Health Care: Spending for Mental Health Strategic Plan Initiatives Was Substantially Less Than Planned.
General Accountability Office, November 2006. http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d0766.pdf
7
John Kregel, Ph.D., Project Director, Social Security-funded Work Incentives Planning and Assistance National
Training Center (NTC), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
January 2010
Vocational Training
Services Provided by Benefits Planning Agency
Required Intensive Benefit Support Services
Received Information and Assistance in the
Use of Social Security Work Incentives
52%
71%
Many veterans reported that access to Medicare and Medicaid was a significant source of
financial support to help address their healthcare needs. More than 65% of veterans receiving
Social Security disability benefits reported receiving Medicare as well, and 21% reported
receiving Medicaid. Only 8% indicated that they had private health insurance.
Veterans seeking benefits planning and support services reported only a marginal attachment to
the workforce. Only 15% of the veterans were employed full- or part-time at the point of
contacting the Benefits Planning and Assistance Program. However, many veterans were
interested in procuring employment or furthering their education. Nearly three-fourths of the
veterans (71%) reported that they were presently unemployed but seeking employment. Nearly a
quarter 22% indicated that they intended to pursue additional education or vocational training.
In fact, with the enactment of the Post 9/11 GI Bill, tens of thousands of veterans are taking
advantage of educational opportunities.
The findings of the Kregel study illustrate the significant levels of unemployment among
veterans, and the extent to which many veterans may be eligible for and receive other federal or
state benefits based on their disability. The study focuses attention on realities that many
veterans may require intensive services and supports if they are to access available work
incentives to pursue their employment and education goals. Said another way, these veterans
need current and accurate information on how to surmount barriers to employment so that they
can successfully obtain and sustain meaningful employment at a living wage. These findings
from the Kregel study and elsewhere confirm and reinforce what our panel of experts shared
from their collective decades of experience in assisting disabled veterans to successfully
reintegrate into civilian society, to include being able to sustain meaningful work at a living
wage.
The National Symposium for the Needs of Young Veterans (November 2006) cited among the
barriers to veterans in obtaining benefits and post-benefit employment the “lack of pre-, duringand post-deployment education tools and support to service members and their families”; the
“…lack of training and knowledge for providers and veterans on specific disabilities, program
details, the appeals process, and veterans’ entitlements”; and the “lack of a single, trusted place
to go for information and resources.”8
8
Voices for Action: A Focus on the Changing Needs of America’s Veterans. Report of the National Symposium for
the Needs of Young Veterans, hosted by AMVETS, November 2006
http://www.veteransnationalsymposium.org/Assets/PDFs/Healthcare1.pdf,
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
9
Online Information Services as Components of the Solution
Online technologies with calculator tools are widely used with consumers in mortgage and other
financial markets, in retirement planning, and in the disability community (www.db101.org).
However, the project found that veterans and their service providers struggle to navigate
complex program regulations with handheld calculators, worksheets, and self-designed
spreadsheets.
Internet technology drives an increasing opportunity to empower veterans and service providers
by providing real-time comprehensive, plain-language information on benefits across multiple
agencies with interactive assistance in finding the most relevant programs, and with interactive
calculations to help visualize the consequences of program interactions and the effects of earned
income on existing benefits.
Our panelists agreed that no such national tools exist. Our search of online resources confirms
this determination.
Core Design Elements and Values of the Online Tools Project
As the reader reviews the progress and the plan laid out in this report, we emphasize that the
Disability Benefits 101 Core Team (DB101) and our working partners from veterans’ service
organizations are clear about method and project values.

The project design is conceived so that veterans can take better control of their own
benefits planning process.

The project method is to work with all veterans – and particularly with veterans with a
disabling or long-term health condition.

The project outcome is to upgrade online veterans’ benefits tools and information
services.
 The project considers online tools and information services to be needed supports, but not
a substitute, for one-on-one counseling with trained veterans’ service organization
representatives and other service organization experts.
http://www.veteransnationalsymposium.org/Assets/PDFs/Employment1.pdf,
http://www.veteransnationalsymposium.org/Assets/PDFs/Benefits1.pdf
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
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II.
Project History and Update
A Project in Three Phases with Outreach Activities
Phase I
After five months of meetings and deliberative discussions, the project disseminated its Veterans
Benefits Online Tools Findings Report in January 2009. The report is available at NEWS on
www.db101.org and WID’s website, www.WID.org.
The report, along with outreach and presentations on it since January, confirm a deep and wide
consensus on the soundness of the need for online tools with the overall objectives of providing
veterans the right information in the right hands at the right time. By this we mean accurate,
real-time services. As the online tools cover the regulations in different federal programs and
jurisdictions, there has been equally strong consensus that the tools’ design and maintenance
need to reside outside government in a non-profit setting.
Phase II
Produce Online Tools and Information Services Boundaries Report
Conduct Public Education Activities on the Project
February-December 2009
As the complex interactions among veteran-related benefits, including eligibility criteria that are
not always clear or quantifiable, Phase II represents a critical and pivotal design step. The
objective of Phase II is to define and provide detailed direction for the scope of the national
online tools to be developed.
WID convened a select Veterans Benefits Online Tools Experts’ Panel whose members have
lengthy field expertise in veterans’ benefits, counseling, and online tools technology. The Phase
II Panel conducted analysis to determine:

Which benefits programs and benefits program interactions are of greatest priority for
veterans with a disabling or long-term condition;

Which veterans and other programs are most appropriate for inclusion in the proposed
online tools and information services; and,

Of the programs selected, which contain:
o Aspects that are qualitative in nature;
o Aspects that are quantifiable in nature;
o Aspects that are both qualitative and quantifiable; and
o Whether programs or services provide support or information only.
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
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Key Questions

Are subjective criteria used for eligibility for a program?
A veteran’s military medical history and assessment is a relevant example.

Can the program regulations be calculated objectively?
As a basic example, disability pension monthly income regulations are quantitative and
can be calculated.
In some programs, the Panel finds and takes note when both qualitative and quantitative aspects
are present in a given program.
DB101 designs and builds online, maintained services on public and private benefits programs
whose rules change and evolve as part of the historical ebb and flow of such programs. Ongoing
maintenance and updating of the online information by a permanent staff of experts underscores
the importance of the Boundaries Report for designing a credible and sustainable set of online
services.
The project has met significant milestones during Phase II. The Veterans’ Online Tools Experts’
Panel has met regularly since the summer to assess input from military veterans as it deliberated
on production of the report. In Section III, we report on the program selection methodology and
the Matrix which the project has developed to begin design and production in early 2010.
Phase II Public Education Activities on the Project
WID has submitted the Findings Report of the Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project to several
disability and veterans organizations that are not participating on the Experts’ Panel for their
comments and input. WID has posted the Findings Report on the DB101 website
(www.db101.org), on WID’s website (www.wid.org), and disseminated it to other public media.
WID and Phase II project partners have presented on the Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project
in California and Washington, D.C.
Presentations to date include to the national Vietnam Veterans of America Employment/
Microenterprise (Economic Opportunities) Committee in December 2008, the Veterans
Entrepreneurship Task Force (VET-Force), the National Council on Independent Living
(ongoing), Disabled Student Union senior management of California’s Community Colleges in
May, and members of the California Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with
Disabilities in June.
In June, CWII Program Director Bryon MacDonald briefed Staff Director and Counsel Kimberly
Ross of the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, Committee on
Veterans’ Affairs, US House of Representatives. MacDonald presented to Ms. Ross on the
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
January 2010
problem statement, project findings, directions set, and partners involved. Ms. Ross listened
attentively and suggested that WID present on progress to date on the project to relevant officials
at the VA.
Also in June, CWII Program Director MacDonald briefed the Veterans Innovation Center (VIC)
senior partners9 on the problem statement, project findings, directions set, and partners involved.
Briefing participants offered the following suggestions and recommendations to move the project
forward:

Craft a one-page task list of duties (rather than longer summaries) for veterans benefits
experts to review who might be candidates for the Phase III Veterans Advisory Work
Group; and

Consider expansion of the project partners for joint work in selecting project talent and
expertise, expanded opportunities for fund-raising, and for designing the outreach,
exposure, and networking among veterans service organizations that the tools will need
when the online tools launch to beta testing and public use.
This fall, MacDonald presented on the project and fielded questions at:
 The Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities Task Force on Employment;
 The National Council on Independent Living Subcommittee on Employment and Social
Security;
 The members and staff of the California State Council on Independent Living; and

The California State Library Veterans Workgroup: Employment, Education, and
Training, of the California Research Bureau.
Approximately 40 California legislative staff, veterans’ service organization staff,
and California Employment Development Department Veterans Services staff
participated in presentations and an intensive afternoon dialogue with a group of
eight veterans transitioning to civilian life.
9
June project meeting participants: Geoff Deutsch, Director of the VIC; David Sevier, Executive Director of the
Commission on the Future for America's Veterans; Harry Walters, former Administrator of the Veterans
Administration, precursor to the Department of Veterans Affairs; and Rick Weidman, Executive Director for Policy
and Government Affairs, VVA: http://future4vets.org/the-veterans-coalition-innovation-center-vic/
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
13

During December, MacDonald reviewed the Findings Report and took questions with
John Kregel, Ph.D. and senior staff of the National Training Center for Social Security
WIPA10 grantees at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia.
In December, project veterans’ benefits experts from VVA and VMW presented the project in
detail to Assistant Secretary Raymond Jefferson and his senior staff at the Veterans Employment
and Training Services (VETS) program of the US Department of Labor in Washington, D.C.
WID and collaborative project partners continue to engage in the fund-raising activities needed
to fully implement the activities planned for Phase III of the project (please see Section IV).
WID reports with confidence that the reactions, questions, and comments we hear consistently at
these state and national presentations, in particular from veterans, validate the directions first
offered in the project’s 2009 Findings Report.
10
WIPA stands for Work Incentives Planning and Assistance competitive grants, funding from the Social Security
Administration to provide one on one work incentives and employment support counseling information to Social
Security disability beneficiaries, including US veterans.
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
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III.
Program Selection Methodology
The DB101 Core Team is developing user-friendly online tools and information services to
support decision-making and planning by veterans and their family members. The directional
focus is to design tools that aid decision-making in the search for employment. With this intent,
the Core Team sought advice from veterans’ service organizations and others covering the field
of veterans’ benefits, health care, and a variety of assistance programs.
The goal of Phase II of the Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project was to develop program
selection criteria to guide the decision-making on which programs to consider – and which not to
consider – when building the tools themselves. The combined filtering techniques will have
levels of subjectivity as the filters themselves are interconnected with one another.
What follows is an overview of assessment filters used for the two online tools, and how the
team created a web-based Matrix to manage the design work ahead.
Relevance: Program Categories That Support Employment
The panel agreed to include selected programs and services that fall into six broad categories,
all of which support employment for large numbers of veterans, to start with, Health Services,
Education and Training, Employment, Income Maintenance, and Housing. These categories
provide structure to the development of the tools, but also ensure that the expert advice
adequately covers appropriate fields of programs and entitlements. As the building process
proceeded, the panel added Independent Living and Family Support. The health services
programs initially dominated the growing lists of programs, but over time the other categories
became populated with relevant programs. A web-based project Matrix emerged to manage the
information within the six categories.
Each benefit or other employment support program entry in the Matrix contains:
 A summary of a program’s description;
 Citations to find current regulatory information;
 Additional comments and information to share among project partners; and
 An inventory of needed, veteran-relevant question areas per entry.
The 2009 edition of Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, and Survivors was the initial
resource used as we began to "seed" the Matrix. Although most of the programs described in that
guide appear in the Matrix, we have reorganized them into clearer topical categories. Throughout
this process, the Experts’ Panel referred to the United States Code Title 38 (Veterans Benefits),
United States Code Title 10 (Armed Forces), and the Veterans Benefits Administration Web
Automated Reference Material System (WARMS). In addition, the panel reviewed the 2009 73rd
Edition of Veterans Benefits: What Every Veteran Should Know, published by the Veterans
Information Service, and added research data to the project’s growing Resources Directory, a
sampling of which can be found in Appendix C. Finally, we added a number of relevant
programs not designed exclusively for veterans which nonetheless serve substantial numbers of
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
15
veterans. These include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly Food Stamps),
Unemployment Compensation, and Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program.
We add updates and refinements to the Matrix and its program inventory as we near Phase III of
the project. The Matrix is the workhorse framework without which the project would not be able
to conduct and manage Phase III project activities. A portion of the content of the matrix is
reproduced in Appendix A.
It is important to note that the Experts’ Panel was not concerned with the preponderance of
health programs in what is to be an employment and employment planning tool. Health
programs can often apply to small, well-defined populations, in which exclusivity is predictable
because of etiological and other personal data considerations, while many other Matrix programs
apply to broader areas of the target populations. The number of programs included is relevant to
each program’s support for employment, which includes a veteran’s health status.
The guiding principle here was a positive answer to the question: Is the program relevant to
large numbers of veterans?
Breadth and Depth
The tools need to be complex enough and thorough enough to include large amounts of relevant
information, yet straightforward and simple enough so that users can navigate the tools and
assimilate “just in time” information the tools are capable of producing. There is as much art as
science to this filter. The Core Team refers to this design filter as assessing consistent levels of
breadth and depth when first selecting the range of programs to include, as well as at what level
of depth to cover them.
The Experts’ Panel is not convinced that most veterans read veterans’ benefits compendia that
run on for hundreds of pages in their free time. A wholesale transfer of such data to the Internet
is not what this project is about. Most informational websites are still in effect passive media;
interactivity on websites, while growing, remains a cautious user activity. The eventual level of
complexity of the online tools is influenced by:

The range of requisite and relevant programs for veterans;

Core team experience designing user-friendly web navigation and screen development;
and,

Web user experiences in related online projects that require a user’s attention and
proactive use of the tools.
Consistency in both plain language text and breadth and depth filtering matters a great deal.
These design characteristics also influenced the selection process. Veterans today can find
benefits information from a myriad of disconnected sources, with text aimed at different
audiences and learning levels. Consistency in plain language text and levels of breadth and depth
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of the programs covered builds predictability and convenience for the entire website experience
across a range of programs.
Quantitative, Qualitative, and Informational Program Aspects
Appendix B contains the most current list of Matrix programs in the six categories that the
Experts’ Panel selected to include in Phase III design and production work. The panel reviewed
and assessed each program and archived it in the Matrix to include assessments about which
programs have quantitative (calculable) aspects, which have qualitative (subjective) aspects,
which have both, and which programs serve as sources of information only. These hierarchies
will help orient and manage the upcoming design process.
Target Audiences
Another critical filter is the consumer focus. Initially, target user audiences were two subcategories: veterans and military retirees. As the work progressed, our panelists successfully
argued for a division into: veterans, service-connected disabled veterans, pension-eligible
veterans, military retirees, family members, and, significantly, social services or veterans
services providers, family members, or other individuals who may facilitate expanded uses of the
online tools.
Only federal programs that support and serve veterans are included in the Matrix at this stage of
development, although the VB101 portal will make frequent reference to state, county, and other
local resources and how to reach them. Each state has its own unique set of services, programs,
and benefits for veterans. The initial versions of the tools, however, will not include state or local
programs in order to incrementally build and test user-friendly, manageable online tools about
complex federal program interactions. The group concurred that trying to cover the extensive
array of state programs would delay the project’s first and needed release and its attendant
testing with veterans.
Programs related to the veteran, the family member, and the military retiree population each
merited inclusion in the Matrix. A number of “information only” programs are also included.
Suicide prevention and survivor assistance, for example, is to be on the front page of the website,
allowing the user to quickly navigate to this information.
The Veterans’ Navigator Tool
While helpful to the design work for both tools, the breadth of programs in the Matrix will serve
the design work of the Veterans’ Navigator Tool most directly. In Phase III, the design team will
use the inventory of veterans’ characteristics that we have listed for each program to design the
online navigator survey. After the veteran fills out an online survey projected to take 10 to 15
minutes, the navigator tool will provide access to short summaries on the six to eight most
relevant programs s/he would want to look into first, based on current situation and history. The
Matrix organizes the source materials needed for the navigator design and production work.
Section IV of this report provides a broader description of Phase III.
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The Benefits and Work Calculator
The Veterans Benefits 101 (VB101) Benefits and Work Calculator and attendant results pages
will cover and address a smaller set of programs, with calculations and qualitative information
based on user input to questions about their current situation and future plans.
The Benefits and Work Calculator is conceived to analyze the effects of planned employment or
a change in employment on a user’s total income and health coverage. From the gross aggregate
of Matrix programs, the Experts’ Panel selected nine program groups that the Benefits and Work
Calculator will model:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Veterans Disability Compensation
Veterans Disability Pension
Social Security Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Social Security Disability Income (SSDI)
VA Health System
DoD TRICARE
Medicaid
Medicare
Federal Taxes and Credits
The tool also will add qualitative information, tips, and caveats on:
1. Section 8 Housing Vouchers (the program would add significant complexity to the
questionnaire);
2. Food Stamps (a benefit not widely used by our target population, with variations in
program details across states); and
3. State Income Taxes and Credits (subject to significant variation from state to state).
In designing the Benefits and Work Calculator, a balance must be struck between including more
programs (broadening scope and audiences, but complicating and lengthening the experience)
and leaving some out (narrowing the scope, but making the calculator more user-friendly). The
nine program groups address services and entitlements most relevant to a wide range of targeted
users while retaining a focused functionality. Certain programs not being considered can be
quantified but were excluded as being of secondary or even tertiary importance to the
employment decision.
Important but informational issues may be included at appropriate points as sidebar Tips, but not
functionally included in the Calculator. For example, programs such as Employer Support of the
Guard and Reserve (ESGR) will be noted qualitatively as appropriate to individual users.
Future versions of the Calculator may treat other programs as we learn more about user needs
with increases in the input from users.
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Program Interaction and Tools Design
As the user engages with the tool, either directly or with the assistance of a social services or
veteran services provider, basic data input will begin to guide the user to information suited to
his/her situation, needs, and plans.
Planning for employment can be treated as a strategic exercise, and these tools can drive
breakthrough advances when a veteran who is using two or more benefits programs is becoming
employment-ready. Standard strategic planning tools such as SWOT (Strengths/Weaknesses/
Opportunities/Threats) analysis are relevant. Where impediments to employment appear, the tool
will offer corresponding enabling employment strategies. The tool will reveal interactions
between programs and paths from program to program as income and other variables change
over time. As the various calculations create the quantifiable results for each program, the plan
that the user has in mind can present as concrete and feasible. The Results sections present
credible estimates based on user data and the design team’s knowledge of current laws, rules,
and regulations.
This tool can portray the total health coverage and benefits environment for the user as s/he plans
employment options over time. In some cases, the tool may recommend actions to be taken to
remain employed or to continue receiving both employment and healthcare benefits. In others,
the tool may offer qualitative information on family healthcare plans available to workers.
In certain situations, the tool may recommend applications for other benefits programs for which
they may be eligible, or supports that can make employment feasible.
Rationale for Just in Time, Real-Time Information Services and Tools
For those veterans using two and often more benefit programs, benefit program interaction(s)
and this tool’s approaches to them can open doors for an increasing number of self-directed
veterans.
The Core Team continues to sharpen its focus on when and how a job-seeking veteran and a
service provider can collaborate, with the help of the Benefits and Work Calculator, to learn
complex program regulations and plan a future. These tools may provide the essential link to
successful outcomes.
From recent project outreach activities listening to veterans, we know that returning troops from
Afghanistan and Iraq who are transitioning to veteran status can and do take on average six to 18
months to decompress, “chill out,” and assimilate back into civilian life, with a wholly unique
timeline for each veteran. Perhaps the single most important aspect of these periods is that each
veteran in this transition is on his or her own time frame. They are highly likely not to be on a
service provider’s schedule, or amenable to it. Reading thick benefits manual is hardly a top
priority.
An overwhelmed veteran, unsure what to do or whom to turn to, can often abandon the planning
process for months or longer. This can become a path into poverty instead of a transition into
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employability. Since we know these behavioral patterns are commonplace and anticipated, we
can assume that many veterans could benefit from “just in time” real-time tools pertinent to their
individual situation, were they available.
The online tools, when the veteran learns about them, will provide a private, personal “way in”
that can turn that all-important light bulb on. When a veteran using the tool, on his or her own
clock, at 2:00 in the morning, gets to a point of understanding what his or her own questions are
that need answers about the risk management in finding and/or accepting new employment, the
all-important defining moment – the empowering moment – will have occurred.
These tools are capable of replicating that defining moment in thousands of different real-time
situations. The needs for these tools are non-trivial and complex, and include the military service
experience, the plausible onset of short- and long-term disabling conditions, and the sheer
complexity of regulations. An obligation to provide the best available online services that
technology can provide is self-evident.
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IV.
The Phase III Design and Production Process
The Disability Benefits 101 Core Team intends to begin design and production activities for the
Veterans Benefits Online Tools and Information Services in this report in early 2010.
Transition Milestones between Phase II and Phase III
Advisory Group
As a first step, the Core Team will recruit, assemble, and orient a Veterans Advisory Work
Group incorporating representatives from veteran service organizations, government agencies,
and veteran consumers of services from a variety of military backgrounds. The Work Group will
provide expertise and end-user perspectives to help guide the work of the Core Team during
product development. We expect to recruit an available pool of beta testers from the Advisory
Group.
Project Manager
Pending the availability of funding, WID will commence a national recruitment effort for a fulltime Veterans Project Manager for Phase III and beyond. The individual selected for this
position will oversee production of online tools and information services, including leading,
coordinating, and managing design and production work.
Phase III Production
Pre-Production
In the pre-production phase, the Core Team will engage in a thorough “pre-visualization” and
design process that will specify the functionality, look, and feel of the website and tools. The
products of pre-production will allow the Core Team to begin the production phase with a fully
worked-out site design.
Information Architecture
As this document reflects the website’s content inventory, the site’s information architecture
defines the organizational relationships among those content elements: The Site Map. A strong
information architecture must be transparent, logical, and manifest to the user. A user should
have no difficulty in locating relevant information via clear navigational pathways among related
content elements.
Wireframes
In the wireframe pre-visualization process, the Core Team will produce functional sketches of
all-important page types in the website and tools. Wireframes do not represent aesthetic
characteristics of the proposed web pages, such as font treatments, images, or colors. Instead,
wireframes convey the functional elements that each page must contain and sketch the rough
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spatial relationships among them. The available surface area of the page is roughly apportioned
among elements. Questions addressed at this stage include those of:




Navigation. Exactly how will the user move from page to page? How will the site’s
information architecture be made manifest?
Nomenclature. What verbiage will best be used to convey the various navigation and
organizational functions?
Balance. How will limited screen real estate be apportioned? How will important
functionality be emphasized over elements of secondary functionality?
Integration. How will the content and online tools work in tandem to create an optimal
experience for the user?
In the domain of the online tools, the wireframes define the user’s workflow from one page to
the next and the functionality available at each step.
Design Treatments
The design treatment process will address the aesthetic considerations suspended during the
wireframe process. Here, the designer will mock up key pages as they will appear in a browser.
The team will need to make key decisions of branding, color, font treatment, and image editorial
policy at this stage. Navigational controls and other “widgets” will be designed. At the
conclusion of the process, the designer will indicate how the page designs will be rendered in
HTML and Cascading Style Sheets.
Tools Technical Design
The tool technical design process will refine the specifications of the online tools to the point at
which they will be ready to begin production.




Program Rules. Program analysts and engineers will outline, in pseudo code, the process
by which each supported program will be modeled.
Question Lists. The Core Team will identify the input quantities needed to support the
program models and output quantities that will be displayed in the results.
Flowcharts. The Core Team will diagram the flow of control in the online tools. Certain
questions that will appear will be dependent upon the answers to previous questions,
resulting in navigation and content that is specific to the user.
Results design. The Core Team will design the Results section of each tool: text, tables,
graphs, etc.
Production
In the production phase, the Core Team will proceed from the designs realized in pre-production
and build a fully functional web site and online tools. Content and tools will likely be released in
stages as appropriate to best manage beta testing procedures.
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Web Infrastructure
Production will begin with establishing the software and hardware infrastructure for site
development. The Core Team will utilize a custom Content Management System that is fully
integrated with both the site content and the online tools. The system automatically generates
HTML code that includes numerous “hints” that improve the performance of screen readers and
other adaptive technology. Content authors do not need to be familiar with HTML or accessible
coding techniques. The system further supports the side-by-side editing of multilingual content.
VB101 online tools and services will meet or exceed federal laws and standards for user and
screen reader accessibility. Accessibility, user-friendliness, and the time management of end
users are integral design priorities.
Content Creation
The Core Team is steeped in the process of developing content concerning complex benefits
programs in a way that is deep enough to be useful to engaged beneficiaries and service
providers, yet plain-spoken enough to be comprehensible to our target audiences. Key elements
of the process include:

Authorship. Content sections are to be written by experienced writers/analysts who are
well-trained in benefits program laws and regulations.

Consultation. The Core Team will work with outside experts to ensure completeness and
accuracy, from early content outlines onward.

Editing. Editors will scrutinize content sections for readability, consistency, and tone.

Review. Key stakeholders will have an opportunity to review content before publication
for issues of accuracy and cultural perception.
Tool Production
The technical architecture for the online tools will be divided between the user interfaces
(responsible for all text, web pages, graphs, and tables) and the engines (responsible for the
econometric calculations that proceed from the user’s input). User interface servers and engine
servers will communicate behind the scenes over the Internet to provide a seamless user
experience.
User interface production will comprise:

Tool content creation. Input quantities were determined in pre-production. Here, the
Core Team will write the questions required to elicit that input from users. The Core
Team also will compose sidebar tips that are laced throughout the tools. Results content,
including the descriptions of possible predicted events and session summary conditions,
will be included as well.
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
Interface flow scripting. The Core Team will write scripts that implement the flow of
screens, questions, and tips defined in the pre-production flowchart.

Results section coding. The tables, graphs, and charts summarizing a user’s tool results
must be composed in server code.
Steps in engine production will include:

User input processing. User input transmitted by the interface must be collated and
interpreted.

Program modeling. The Core Team will write server code to model eligibility and
projected benefits levels for the relevant programs.

Results summation. Scanning the session as a whole, engine server code must draw
conclusions and generate recommendations for the user.
Testing
The Core Team will test tool components and systems during the production process. When the
tools are feature-complete, alpha testing will commence using outside experts, both paid and
unpaid. Release to a broader beta testing group will follow, for a period of two to three months.
Following public release, the Core Team will continue to collect problem reports and suggestions
from the field. The Core Team is committed to a rigorous, ongoing program of improvement.
Deployment
The Core Team hopes to deploy the first versions of the Veterans Benefits Online Tools Project
within 12-18 months following the commencement of Phase III. We anticipate releasing this
modular project in stages, enabling valuable public response to inform future development.
In its past development efforts, the Core Team has found that it is helpful to directly engage
service providers in the field so as to drive usage to new online tools. This engagement has taken
place primarily through training and outreach efforts. The Team has found particular success
following implementation of a Cross-Agency Training model.
When veterans and other job seekers with a disabling condition cannot get answers to their
planning questions, complex program rules and regulations can become barriers to their
employment. The Disability Benefits 101 Cross-Agency Training model builds and supports
local service networks armed with real-world knowledge about work, disability, healthcare and
other benefits. The target trainee audience is to include staff from diverse public, private, and
non-profit direct-service organizations who work with each other through local networks.
The goal of Cross Agency Training is to achieve solid awareness-level knowledge of health care
and other essential supports that veterans can access while working. The training will span public
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and private health, benefits, and employment programs and protections, introduces trainees to
DB101 benefits planning calculators, and provide strategies to improve interaction with benefit
program staff. In addition, participants from diverse agencies will get to know each other, which
will serve to create or improve networks that last well beyond training events.
The Core Team proposes to focus the scope of Cross Agency Training to veteran service
organizations, staff of state and federal veterans agencies, and others providing services to
veterans and their families.
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Appendix A: Program Summaries
Education and Training
Montgomery GI Bill
Description: The Montgomery GI Bill - Active Duty, called "MGIB" for short, provides up to
36 months of education benefits to eligible veterans for: College Technical or Vocational
Courses; Correspondence Courses; Apprenticeship/Job Training; Flight Training; High-tech
Training; Licensing & Certification Tests; Entrepreneurship Training; Certain Entrance
Examinations.
Questions:

Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Chapter 30, Title 38 US Code. There are a multitude of Public Laws which have
adapted the program across time.
Montgomery GI Bill - Selected Reserve
Description: The Montgomery GI Bill - Selected Reserve program may be available to you if
you are a member of the Selected Reserve. The Selected Reserve includes the Army Reserve,
Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve and Coast Guard Reserve, and the
Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. You may use this education assistance
program for degree programs, certificate or correspondence courses, cooperative training,
independent study programs, apprenticeship/on-the-job training, and vocational flight training
programs. Remedial, refresher and deficiency training are available under certain circumstances.
Eligibility for this program is determined by the Selected Reserve components. VA makes the
payments for this program. You may be entitled to receive up to 36 months of education benefits.
Questions:

Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Chapter 30, Title 38 US Code.
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Post 9/11 GI Bill
Description: The Post 9/11 GI Bill provides financial support for education and housing to
individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001, or
individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. You must have received
an honorable discharge to be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The Post-9/11 GI Bill became
effective for training on or after August 1, 2009. The amount of support that an individual may
qualify for depends on where they live and what type of degree they are pursuing. For a
summary of Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits, see the benefit comparison chart. Approved training
under the Post-9/11 GI Bill includes graduate and undergraduate degrees, and
vocational/technical training. All training programs must be offered by an institution of higher
learning (IHL) and approved for GI Bill benefits. Additionally, tutorial assistance, and licensing
and certification test reimbursement are approved under the Post- 9/11 GI Bill. The Post-9/11 GI
Bill will pay your tuition based upon the highest in-state tuition charged by an educational
institution in the state where the educational institution is located. For more expensive tuition, a
program exists which may help to reimburse the difference. This program is called the “Yellow
Ribbon Program”. The Post-9/11 GI Bill also offers some service members the opportunity to
transfer their GI Bill to dependents.
Questions:



Health Profile
o VA Disability Rating
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: Chapter 30, Title 38 US Code Public Law 110-252.
Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP)
Description: REAP was established as a part of the Ronald W. Reagan National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005. It is a new Department of Defense education benefit
program designed to provide educational assistance to members of the Reserve components
called or ordered to active duty in response to a war or national emergency (contingency
operation) as declared by the President or Congress. This new program makes certain reservists
who were activated for at least 90 days after September 11, 2001 either eligible for education
benefits or eligible for increased benefits.
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$600 Buy-up Program: Some reservists may contribute up to an additional $600 to the GI Bill to
receive increased monthly benefits. For an additional $600 contribution, you may receive up to
$5400 in additional GI Bill benefits. You must be a member of a Ready Reserve component
(Selected Reserve, Individual Ready Reserve, or Inactive National Guard) to pay into the “buyup” program.
Questions:

Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005. P. L.
108-375.
Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program (DEA)
Description: Dependents' Educational Assistance provides education and training opportunities
to eligible dependents of certain veterans. The program offers up to 45 months of education
benefits. These benefits may be used for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship, and onthe-job training. If you are a spouse, you may take a correspondence course. Remedial,
deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances.
Questions:



Health Profile
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Title 38 Chapter 5 US Code.
VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E)
Description: The Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program is authorized by
Congress under Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 31. It is sometimes referred to as
the Chapter 31 program. The mission of VR&E is to help veterans with service-connected
disabilities to prepare for, find, and keep suitable jobs. For veterans with service-connected
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disabilities so severe that they cannot immediately consider work, VR&E offers services to
improve their ability to live as independently as possible.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 31.
Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)
Description: VEAP is available if you elected to make contributions from your military pay to
participate in this education benefit program. Your contributions are matched on a $2 for $1
basis by the Government. You may use these benefits for degree, certificate, correspondence,
apprenticeship/on-the-job training programs, and vocational flight training programs. In certain
circumstances, remedial, deficiency, and refresher training may also be available. Benefit
entitlement is 1 to 36 months depending on the number of monthly contributions. You have 10
years from your release from active duty to use VEAP benefits. If there is entitlement not used
after the 10-year period, your portion remaining in the fund will be automatically refunded.
Questions:

Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Chapter 30, Title 38 US Code.
Veterans Employment & Training Service
Description: DOL Program: "The mission statement for VETS is to provide veterans and service
members with the resources and services to succeed in the 21st century workforce by
maximizing their employment opportunities, protecting their employment rights and meeting
labor-market demands with qualified veterans."
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Questions:




Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o VA Disability Rating
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: http://www.dol.gov/vets/programs/
Work Force Investment Act (WIA)
Description: Workforce Investment Programs (VWIP) are to support employment and training
programs, through grants or contracts, program to meet the needs for workforce investment
activities of veterans with service-connected disabilities, veterans who have significant barriers
to employment, veterans who served on active duty in the armed forces during a war or in a
campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized, and recently separated
veterans. The VWIP program is administered by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for
Veterans' Employment and Training (OASVET). The annual funding for Veterans Workforce
Investment Programs (VWIP) is authorized by legislation and derived as a percentage of the total
annual Workforce Investment authorization. Most of the appropriated funds are used to support
two-year grants awarded to eligible entities through a competitive, Solicitation-of-Grant
Applications (SGA) process conducted in even-numbered years. Eligible entities include state
and local governments, private, not-for-profit organizations including community based and faith
based organizations. The competitive process allows for two-year grant programs, the second
year funding is based on performance and availability of funds. The intent of VWIP is to provide
employment and training services to eligible veterans in the attempt to place veterans into gainful
employment. These programs can provide for, but are not limited to training (formal classroom
or on-the-job training), retraining, job placement assistance, and support services, including
testing, counseling. Grantees may choose to supplement the core training by offering other
services that also enhance the employability of participants. These programs complement
services generally provided by States through mainstream WIA program operators under Title 1,
and the Wagner-Peyser Act. Veterans may also be eligible for services under other WIA titles,
which assist economically disadvantaged or dislocated workers with employment, training, and
other workforce development services. VWIP allows for specialized employment, training and
educational resources to be tailored to meet the needs of the specific target populations of
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veterans served. In many programs, minority, female, economically disadvantaged, homeless
and/or disabled veterans can be targeted to receive these specialized resources. Projects that
enhance direct veterans' training-related services, that emphasize service to sub-categories of the
eligible veterans target groups, and demonstration or research projects that are considered unique
or innovative receive priority consideration.
Questions:


Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: P.L. 105-220, Workforce Investment Act, Section 168.
Employment
Center for Veteran Enterprises
Description: The mission of the Center for Veteran Enterprises (CVE) is to improve the
business climate for veterans, to minimize access barriers and to inform the public about the
benefits of working with veteran-owned small businesses. CVE creates breakthrough
opportunities for veteran-owned small businesses by collaborating with like-minded individuals
and organizations who passionately believe that Veterans in Business are Still Serving America!
CVE supports acquisition teams through procurement coaching, free market research, awareness
briefings and awards for noteworthy achievements.
Questions:

Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: The Veterans Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development Act of 1999
(Public Law 106-50).
Compensated Work Therapy
Description: Compensated Work Therapy (CWT) is a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
vocational rehabilitation program that endeavors to match and support work ready veterans in
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competitive jobs, and to consult with business and industry regarding their specific employment
needs. In some locations CWT is also known as Veterans Industries; these designations are
synonymous.
Questions:


Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: Public Law (Pub. L.) 108-70, Section 104 (see Title 38 United States Code (USC.)
1718(d).
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (Information Only)
Description: Volunteer ombudsman working for DoD who advocate for activated Guard and
Reserve who are having problems with their place of civilian employment. Employer Support of
the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense (DoD) organization. It is a staff
group within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs (OASD/RA),
which is in itself a part of the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD). The nation's Reserve
components (referring to the total of all National Guard members and Reserve forces from all
branches of the military) comprise approximately 48 percent of our total available military
manpower. The current National Defense Strategy indicates that the National Guard and Reserve
will be full partners in the fully integrated Total Force. Our Reserve forces will spend more time
away from the workplace defending the nation, supporting a demanding operations tempo and
training to maintain their mission readiness. In this environment, civilian employers play a
critical role in the defense of the nation by complying with existing employment laws protecting
the rights of workers who serve in the Reserve component. ESGR was established in 1972 to
promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve component members and their civilian
employers and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee's military
commitment. It is the lead DoD organization for this mission under DoD Directive 1250.1.
Today, ESGR operates through a network of thousands of volunteers throughout the nation and
Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Questions:


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Health Profile
o Subjective Assessment
Income and Asset Profile
Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
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o

User's (or family's) earnings and/or self employment income
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: DoD Directive 1250.1.
Federal Job Preference (Information Only)
Description: Veterans preference gives special consideration to eligible veterans looking for
federal employment. Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the United
States Armed Forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled
to preference over nonveterans both in hiring into the federal civil service and in retention during
reductions in force. There are two classes of preference for honorably discharged veterans.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
Household Information
o User's birthdate
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: Title 5.2108.
HireVetsFirst
Description: Website for hiring veterans of America's military; resources for matching
employment with veterans.
Questions:

Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Subjective Assessment
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Veterans’ Benefits Online Tools Project Boundaries Report
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o
o


VA Disability Rating
VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: http://hirevetsfirst.dol.gov/
Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP) (Information Only)
Description: Applications for funds will be accepted from State and Local Workforce
Investment Boards, local public agencies, for-profit/commercial entities, and non-profit
organizations, including faith-based and community-based organizations. Applicants must have a
familiarity with the area and population to be served and the ability to administer an effective
and timely program.
Questions:
References: Title 38 USC. Section 2021, as added by Section 5 of Public Law 107-95, the
Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act of 2001.
Military and Civilian Sponsor Dependent Hiring
Description: The programs covered are: Military Spouse Preference Program; Military
Dependent Hiring Programs; NAFI; Non-Appropriated Fund Positions; Family Member
Preference.
Questions:


Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: These programs are covered in detail in the all new 10th edition of The Book of US
Government Jobs.
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Ticket to Work Program
Description: The Ticket to Work program is a federal program that helps Social Security
beneficiaries with a disability achieve their employment goals. The program offers beneficiaries
aged 18 to 64 who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability
Insurance (SSDI) services to help them become employed. These services can include:
vocational rehabilitation, training, referrals, job coaching, counseling and placement services.
The Ticket to Work program pays for services to help you find paid work - it is not linked to
special jobs for Social Security beneficiaries. The services provided through the Ticket to Work
program help you to find and apply for jobs that already exist in the marketplace.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
Household Information
o User's birthdate
Income and Asset Profile
o
User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
References: http://www.disabilitybenefits101.org/ca/programs/work_benefits/ttw/program.htm
Transition Assistance Program (TAP)
Description: The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) was established to meet the needs of
separating service members during their period of transition into civilian life by offering jobsearch assistance and related services.
Questions:




Health Profile
o
Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o
Specific treatments
o
Subjective Assessment
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's unreimbursed medical expenses
Service Details
o
Combat participation (Y/N)
o
Dates of active military service
o
Discharge Status
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References: http://www.taonline.com/TapOffice/default.asp
Veterans Recruitment Appointments (VRAs)
Description: The VRA is a special authority by which agencies can appoint an eligible veteran
without competition. The VRA is an excepted appointment to a position that is otherwise in the
competitive service. After 2 years of satisfactory service, the veteran is converted to a careerconditional appointment in the competitive service. (Note, however, that a veteran may be given
a noncompetitive temporary or term appointment based on VRA eligibility. These appointments
do not lead to career jobs.) When two or more VRA applicants are preference eligibles, the
agency must apply veterans' preference as required by law. (While all VRA eligibles have served
in the Armed Forces, they do not necessarily meet the eligibility requirements for veterans'
preference under section 2108 of title 5, United States Code.)
Questions:


Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: Jobs for Veterans Act, Public Law 107-288, which amended title 38 USC. 4214.
Veterans' Workforce Investment Program
Description: VWIP allows for specialized employment, training, and educational resources,
tailored to meet the needs of the specific target populations of veterans served. In many
programs, minority, female, economically disadvantaged, homeless veterans, and/or disabled
veterans receive these specialized resources.
Questions:

36
Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
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o
o
o



Subjective Assessment
VA Disability Rating
VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) section 168 amended the training programs
made available to veterans (see 29 USC. 2913). It also authorizes the Department of Labor
(DOL), to make grants available to meet the needs of veterans through workforce investment
activities. The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and Training
(OASVET) administers the Veterans Workforce Investment Program (VWIP). 38 USC. 4215
established priority of service for veterans in all Department of Labor funded job- training
programs.
Worker Opportunity Tax Credit
Description: The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a Federal tax credit incentive that
the Congress provides to private-sector businesses for hiring individuals from twelve target
groups who have consistently faced significant barriers to employment. The main objective of
this program is to enable the targeted employees to gradually move from economic dependency
into self-sufficiency as they earn a steady income and become contributing taxpayers, while the
participating employers are compensated by being able to reduce their federal income tax
liability. WOTC joins other workforce programs that help incentivize workplace diversity and
facilitate access to good jobs for American workers.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o VA Disability Rating
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
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37
o

User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: This program was created by the Small Business Protection Act of 1996 (Public
Law 104-188) and extended by the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 through June 30, 1998.
Reauthorization was granted under the "Ticket to Work" and the Work Incentives Improvement
Act of 1999 (Public Law 106-170) for a 30 month period retroactive to July 1, 1999 through
December 31, 2003.
Health
Armed Forces Retirement Home
Description: Residential home for military retirees. There are only a few and there is an
extensive waiting list.
Questions:




Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: www.afrh.gov
Delta Dental
Description: Dental insurance for retirees and for TRICARE beneficiaries.
Questions:
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


Household Information
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References:
http://www.tricaredentalprogram.com/tdpforms/TDP_Booklet_Lo_Res.pdf#page=37 Title
10.55.1076a.
Dependent & Survivor - CHAMPVA
Description: The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs
(CHAMPVA) is a comprehensive health care program in which the VA shares the cost of
covered health care services and supplies with eligible beneficiaries. The program is
administered by Health Administration Center and our offices are located in Denver, Colorado.
Due to the similarity between CHAMPVA and the Department of Defense (DoD) TRICARE
program (sometimes referred to by its old name, CHAMPUS) the two are often mistaken for
each other. CHAMPVA is a Department of Veterans Affairs program whereas TRICARE is a
regionally managed health care program for active duty and retired members of the uniformed
services, their families, and survivors. In some cases a veterans may look to be eligible for
both/either program on paper. However, if you are a military retiree, or the spouse of a veteran
who was killed in action, you are and will always be a TRICARE beneficiary, you cannot choose
between the two.
Questions:



Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 10 USC Chapter 55; 38 USC $5301(a); 38 USC 1781(a).
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Dependent & Survivor - Spina Bifida
Description: The VA provides monetary benefits, vocational training, rehabilitation, and certain
healthcare benefits to children of Vietnam veterans and certain veterans who served in Korea
near the demilitarized zone for disabilities resulting from spina bifida.
Questions:


Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
References: 38 USC. § 1803, 38 USC. §1813 and Title 38 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
§17.901 Provision of health care.
Dependent & Survivor - Vietnam Children
Description: The VA provides monetary benefits, vocational training, rehabilitation, and certain
healthcare benefits to children of Vietnam veterans and certain veterans who served in Korea
near the demilitarized zone for disabilities resulting from spina bifida. Also, see Benefits for
Children of Women Vietnam Veterans Born with Certain Birth Defects Also, see CHAMPVA.
Questions:


Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
Household Information
o User's birthdate
References: 38 USC. § 1803, 38 USC. §1813 and Title 38 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
§17.901 Provision of health care. PL 106-416; PL 106-419; 38 CFR Chapter 18; 38 CFR 3.815;
Title 38, Part II, Chapter 18, Subchapter II, Sect. 1812.
Discharge Dental Exam
Description: Dental care. National Defense Authorized Act (NDAA) 2008, amended the onetime dental and extended the time period for all recently discharged Veterans meeting the
requirements, from 90 days to 180 days post-discharge.
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Questions:

Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: a. 38 USC. §1712(a)(1)(B), Dental care; drugs and medicine for certain disability
Veterans; vaccines. b. 38 CFR §17.160, Authorization of dental examinations; §17.161,
Authorization of outpatient dental treatment; §17.162, Eligibility for class II dental treatment
without rating action; §17.163, Post hospital outpatient dental treatment; §17.164, Patient
responsibility in making and keeping dental appointments; §17.165, Emergency outpatient dental
treatment; §17.166, Dental services for hospital or nursing home patients and domiciled
members.
DoD Direct Medical Care
Description: The TRICARE Prime option provides comprehensive health care for both active
duty and retired military, and their families, who choose to enroll. With this option, most health
care will be provided by military hospitals and clinics, augmented by contracted civilian health
care networks. TRICARE Prime is similar to health maintenance organization (HMO) programs
offered by employers across the US It emphasizes keeping you healthy through preventive care
and services such as pap smears, mammograms, and prostate screenings, rather than simply
treating you when you become ill. Your total health care will be guided by your primary care
manager, who may be a military or civilian provider or perhaps a team of health care
professionals who work together to monitor and guide your care. As a TRICARE Prime enrollee
you can expect to receive medical appointments quickly and easily- usually the same day, if you
are sick. To receive health care in TRICARE Prime, you must enroll in the program for one year.
Call your nearest TRICARE Service Center for details.
Questions:


Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o
Dates of active military service
o
Discharge Status
References: 10 USC 1092; 32 CFR $199.16.
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Marital Counseling (Information Only)
Description: USVA Clinics provide marital counseling for veterans and family members. Vet
Centers also provide marriage counseling.
Questions:



Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/Vet_Center_Services.asp
Title 38.17.98.
Medicaid
Description: Medicaid is a program that pays medical expenses for people with low income.
This includes people who are aged, disabled, or have high medical costs. If you meet the
requirements of the program, Medicaid will help pay for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription
drugs, rehabilitation, and other medical services. Each state runs its own Medicaid program. The
states have to follow certain national Medicaid rules, but they have flexibility in how they run
their programs. The state Medicaid programs are paid for with a combination of county, state,
and federal money.
Questions:



42
Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
o User's unreimbursed medical expenses
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References:
http://www.disabilitybenefits101.org/ca/programs/health_coverage/medi_cal/program.htm
Medicare
Description: Medicare is health insurance. While you work, some of the money you earn
automatically comes out of your paycheck and goes into a Medicare fund with other people’s
contributions. If you have to stop working because of a disability, Medicare will take money
from this fund and use it to help you pay for your medical costs. Like any insurance program,
there are detailed rules about who can participate in Medicare and limits to what medical costs
Medicare will help pay for. The federal government is in charge of Medicare. Some parts of
Medicare are now run by private companies, but those companies have to follow rules laid out
by Medicare. “Medicare” is actually a collection of related programs. Each program will help
pay for a different aspect of your medical care. The programs are called “parts” and are named
by letters. In general:




Medicare Part A helps pay for medical care you get while you’re in a hospital.
Medicare Part B helps pay for medical care you get outside of a hospital, like when you
go to the doctor’s office.
Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is a way to get Part A, B, and
sometimes Part D coverage through private companies.
Medicare Part D helps pay for prescription drugs.
Each Medicare Part has different rules for how you sign up, how much it costs, which medical
costs it helps with, and how much of the costs it will help pay for.
Questions:


Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
Household Information
o User's birthdate
References:
http://www.disabilitybenefits101.org/ca/programs/health_coverage/medicare/program.htm
Suicide Prevention
Description: Each VA Medical Center has a suicide prevention coordinator to make sure
veterans receive needed counseling and services. Calls from the Lifeline are referred to those
coordinators.
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Questions:



Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
References: More recently, the Veterans Suicide Study Act (S. 2899) was introduced. This
measure would require the VA to study and report to Congress regarding suicides that have
occurred among veterans since 1997. In carrying out this study, the VA Secretary would have to
coordinate with the Secretary of Defense, Veterans Service Organizations, the CDC, and state
public health offices and veterans agencies. Quoted from a 2008 study for congress.
TRICARE Transition Assistance
Description: Health assistance during transition from active duty.
Questions:

Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: US Code Chapter 55.
TRICARE
Description: TRICARE is the method by which the military provides for health care by direct
payment to private medical providers.
Questions:
References: Title 10.55.
TRICARE For Life
Description: This is the program where TRICARE acts as a Medicare supplement. Upon
eligibility for Medicare the TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Prime enrollee receives a set of
instructions to enroll in TRICARE for Life. Enrollment in parts C and D is required.
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Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Title 10.55.1395.
TRICARE Prime
Description: This is the basic program of TRICARE which connects an enrollee with a
consistent primary health care provider.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Title 10.55.10.
TRICARE Standard
Description: One of three types of TRICARE. The only TRICARE available overseas. Very
flexible but requires co-pays. Good for truckers and other highly transient workers who cannot
stick to a primary care provider.
Questions:

Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
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o
o


VA Disability Rating
VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Title 10.55.1076.
VHA - Agent Orange Registry
Description: In 1978 the VA began a program to examine and record the names of veterans
concerned about health problems related to their exposure to Agent Orange and other herbicides
during their military service in Southeast Asia. Eligible veterans qualify for an AO Registry
examination at the VA.
Questions:


Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: PL 102-585; PL 100-687.
VHA - Beneficiary Travel
Description: Who is eligible for travel?









46
Veterans rated 30% or more SC for travel relating to any condition
Veterans rated less than 30% for travel relating to their SC condition
Veterans receiving VA pension benefits for all conditions
Veterans with annual income below the maximum applicable annual rate of pension for
all conditions
Veterans who can present clear evidence that they are unable to defray the cost of travel
Veterans traveling in relation to a Compensation and Pension (C&P) Examination
Certain veterans in certain emergency situations
Certain non-veterans when related to care of a veteran (attendants & donors)
Beneficiaries of other Federal Agencies (when authorized by that agency)
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
Allied Beneficiaries (when authorized by appropriate foreign government agency).
Questions:



Health Profile
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: 38 USC 111.
VHA - Bereavement Counseling
Description: Vet Centers provide bereavement counseling to all immediate family members
(including spouses, children, parents, and siblings) of service members who die in the line of
duty while on active service. This includes federally-activated members of the National Guard
and reserve components.
Questions:


Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
References: 38 USC 1783; 38 USC 1798.
VHA - Blind Veterans Services
Description: Blind veterans may be eligible for services at a VA medical center or for admission
to a VA blind rehabilitation center or clinic. Services are available at all VA medical facilities
through the Visual Impairment Services (VIST) Coordinator. Aids and services for blind
veterans include:




A total health and benefits review by a VA Visual Impairment services team
Adjustment to blindness training
Home improvements and structural alterations to homes
Specially adapted housing and adaptations
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



Low vision aids and training in their use
Electronic and mechanical aids for the blind, including adaptive computers and
computer-assisted devices such as reading machines and electronic travel aids
Guide dogs, including the expense of training the veteran to use the dog and the cost of
the dog’s medical care
Talking books, tapes and Braille literature.
Questions:


Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 38 USC. §1714(b) Fitting and training in use of prosthetic appliances; guide dogs;
service dogs. b. 38 CFR §17.154 Dog-guides and equipment for the blind VHA Handbook 1174.
VHA - CHAMPVA
Description: CHAMPVA, the Civilian Health and Medical Program of VA, provides
reimbursement for most medical expenses - inpatient, outpatient, mental health, prescription
medication, skilled nursing care and durable medical equipment. To be eligible for CHAMPVA,
you cannot be eligible for TRICARE/CHAMPUS and you must be in one of these categories:
The spouse or child of a veteran who has been rated permanently and totally disabled for a
service-connected disability by a VA regional office; or the surviving spouse or child of a
veteran who died from a VA-rated service connected disability; or the surviving spouse or child
of a veteran who was at the time death rated permanently and totally disabled; or the surviving
spouse or child of a military member who died in the line of duty, not due to misconduct (in most
of these cases, these family members are eligible for TRICARE, not CHAMPVA).
Questions:



48
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
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o
Discharge Status
References: 38 USC 1781(a); 10 USC Chapter 55; 38 USC $5301(a).
VHA - Combat Veteran Eligibility
Description: The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2008 was signed by President
Bush on January 28, 2008. This Act extends the period of enhanced health care eligibility
provided a veteran who served in a theater of combat operations after November 11, 1998,
(commonly referred to as combat veterans or OEF/OIF veterans) as follows:


Currently enrolled veterans and new enrollees who were discharged from active duty on
or after January 28, 2003, are eligible for the enhanced benefits for 5 years post
discharge.
Veterans discharged from active duty before January 28, 2003, who apply for enrollment
on or after January 28, 2008, are eligible for the enhanced benefit until January 27, 2011.
As before, veterans enrolling under the "Combat Veteran" authority may be assigned to Priority
Group 6, unless eligible for a higher Priority Group, and will not be charged co-pays for
medication and/or treatment of conditions that are possibly related to their combat service. These
veterans are not required to disclose their income information, but may do so to determine their
eligibility for a higher priority, beneficiary travel benefits and exemption of co-pays for care
unrelated to their military service. Veterans who enroll with VA under this authority will
continue to be enrolled even after their enhanced eligibility period ends. At the end of their
enhanced eligibility period, veterans enrolled in Priority Group 6 may be shifted to Priority
Group 7 or 8, depending on their income level, and required to make applicable co-pays.
Veterans may assist VA in establishing their status as a combat veteran by providing one of the
following when they apply for care:




Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD 214) indicating service in a
theater of combat operations
Proof of receipt of the Afghanistan Campaign Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Armed
Forces Expeditionary Medal; Air Force Combat Action Medal (AFCAM); Kosovo
Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (does not include
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal); or Southwest Asia Campaign Medal
Proof of receipt of Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay (commonly referred to as
"combat pay") after November 11, 1998
Proof of exemption of Federal tax status for Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay after
November 11, 1998.
Questions:

Health Profile
o VA Health Priority Status
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
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 38 USC. §1710(e)(1)(D).
VHA – Dental Care
Description: Eligibility for VA dental benefits is based on very specific guidelines and differs
significantly from eligibility requirements for medical care. You are eligible for outpatient dental
treatment if you meet one of the following criteria:









Have a service-connected compensable dental disability or condition: Any needed dental
care
Are a former prisoner of war: Any needed dental care
Have service-connected disabilities rated 100% disabling or are unemployable due to
service-connected conditions: Any needed dental care
Are participating in a VA vocational rehabilitation program: Dental care needed to
complete the program
Have a service connected and/or non-compensable dental condition or disability that
existed at the time of discharge or release from a period of active duty of 90 days or more
during the Persian Gulf War era: One-time dental care if you apply for dental care within
180 days of separation from active duty and your certificate of discharge does not
indicate that all appropriate dental treatment had been rendered prior to discharge
Have a service-connected non-compensable dental condition or disability resulting from
combat wounds or service trauma: You are eligible for needed care for the serviceconnected condition(s)
You have a dental condition clinically determined by VA to be currently aggravating a
service-connected medical condition: You are eligible for dental care to resolve the
problem
You are receiving outpatient care or scheduled for inpatient care and require dental care
for a condition complicating a medical condition currently under treatment: You are
eligible for dental care to resolve the problem
Certain veterans enrolled in a VA Homeless Program for 60 consecutive days or more
may receive certain medically necessary outpatient dental services.
Questions:
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50
Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o VA Disability Rating
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Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 38 USC. §1712(a)(1)(B); 38 CFR §17.160; §17.161; §17.162; §17.163; §17.164;
§17.165; §17.166.
VHA - Depleted Uranium
Description: Veterans may be eligible for: Health care for health problems that VA determines
are related to depleted uranium exposure during military service, and disability compensation for
health problems that VA determines are related to depleted uranium exposure during military
service.
Questions:


Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: PL 105-368.
VHA - Emergency Care (Non-VA)
Description: Emergency Care in Non-VA facilities is provided as a safety net for veterans under
specific conditions. You are eligible if the non-VA emergency care is for a service-connected
condition or, if enrolled, you have been provided care by a VA clinician or provider within the
past 24 months and have no other health care coverage. Also, it must be determined that VA
health care facilities were not feasibly available; that a delay in medical attention would have
endangered your life or health, and that you are personally liable for the cost of the services.
Questions:

Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Disability Rating
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o
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VA Health Priority Status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unreimbursed medical expenses
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: a. 38 USC. §1725 Reimbursement for the emergency treatment, b. 38 CFR
§17.1000 et seq. Payment or reimbursement for emergency services for non-service-connected
conditions in non-VA facilities c. 38 USC. §1728, Reimbursement for certain medical expenses,
d. 38 CFR §17.120 et seq. Payment or reimbursement of the expenses of hospital care and other
medical services not previously authorized - §17.132, Appeals, §17.1002, Substantive conditions
for payment or reimbursement, §17.1003, Emergency transportation; §17.1004, Filing claims;
§17.1005, Payment limitations, §17.1006, Decision makers; §17.1007, Independent right of
recovery; and §17.1008, Balance billing prohibited. VA Web site at:
http://vhahacnonva.vha.med.va.gov/default/default.asp 13. Extended Care 38 USC. §1710B
Extended care services (1) VA Web site at: http://www1.va.gov/geriatricsshg/
VHA - Eyeglasses and Hearing Aids
Description: VA will ensure access to audiology and eye care services including preventive
health (care) services and routine vision testing for all enrolled veterans and those veterans
exempt from enrollment. Eyeglasses and hearing aids will be provided to the following veterans:
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Those with any compensable service-connected disability.
Those who are former Prisoners of War (POWs).
Those who were awarded a Purple Heart.
Those in receipt of benefits under Title 38 United States Code (USC.) 1151.
Those in receipt of an increased pension based on being permanently housebound and in
need of regular aid and attendance.
Those with vision or hearing impairment resulting from diseases or the existence of
another medical condition for which the veteran is receiving care or services from VHA,
or which resulted from treatment of that medical condition, e.g., stroke, polytrauma,
traumatic brain injury, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, vascular disease, geriatric chronic
illnesses, toxicity from drugs, ocular photosensitivity from drugs, cataract surgery, and/or
other surgeries performed on the eye, ear, or brain resulting in vision or hearing
impairment.
Those with significant functional or cognitive impairment evidenced by deficiencies in
the ability to perform activities of daily living.
Those who have vision and/or hearing impairment severe enough that it interferes with
their ability to participate actively in their own medical treatment and to reduce the
impact of dual sensory impairment (combined hearing and vision loss). NOTE: The term
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“severe” is to be interpreted as a vision and/or hearing loss that interferes with or restricts
access to, involvement in, or active participation in health care services (e.g.,
communication or reading medication labels). The term is not to be interpreted to mean
that a severe hearing or vision loss must exist to be eligible for hearing aids or eyeglasses.
Those veterans who have service-connected vision disabilities rated zero percent or
service-connected hearing disabilities rated zero percent if there is organic conductive,
mixed, or sensory hearing impairment, and loss of pure tone hearing sensitivity in the
low, mid, or high-frequency range or a combination of frequency ranges which contribute
to a loss of communication ability; however, hearing aids are to be provided only as
needed for the service-connected hearing disability.
Veterans meeting the eligibility requirements to receive health care are eligible for diagnostic
audiology services and eye & vision care services. Eligibility rules are the same for both
inpatient and outpatient medical services. Veterans will not be denied access to audiology
services and/or eye & vision care services covered by the Medical Benefits Package because they
do not meet the eligibility criteria for hearing aids and/or eye glasses.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: USC 38 $ 1151; 38 CFR §17.38.
VHA - Foreign Medical Program
Description: The Foreign Medical Program is a program to provide health care benefits to US
veterans with VA-rated service-connected conditions who are residing or traveling abroad
(Philippines excluded). Under FMP, we (the VA) assume payment responsibility for certain
necessary medical services associated with the treatment of those service-connected conditions.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
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o
Discharge Status
References: 38 USC. §1724; 38 CFR §17.35; VHA Handbook 1601A.02.
VHA - Geriatric Long Term Care
Description: VA provides institutional long term care to eligible veterans through VA Nursing
Homes, Community Nursing Homes, State Veterans Homes, and Domiciliaries. VA Nursing
Home Care Program provides compassionate care in an interdisciplinary environment to eligible
veterans with sufficient functional impairment to require the level of service and skill available
in VA nursing homes.
Veterans with chronic stable conditions including dementia, those requiring rehabilitation or
short term specialized services such as respite or intravenous therapy, or those who need comfort
and care at the end of life are served in the Community Living Centers. Their goal is to restore
residents to maximum function, prevent further decline, maximize independence, and/or provide
comfort when dying. Most Community Living Centers are well suited to providing short-term,
restorative and rehabilitative care up to 100 days, and longer term care for veterans who meet
eligibility criteria and/or require end of life care, prolonged active rehabilitation, are unable to
sustain a placement in a community nursing home, or lack clinically appropriate community
alternative.
The Community Nursing Home (CNH) Program has maintained two cornerstones: some level of
patient choice in choosing a nursing home close as close as possible to the veteran’s home and
family; and a unique approach to local oversight of CNHs. The latter hallmark consists of annual
reviews and monthly patient visits. VA Health Care Facility (VAHCF) staff are the only Federal
officials charged with regularly visiting nursing homes. A State home is owned and operated by
a State. They may provide nursing home care, domiciliary care, and/or adult day health care. VA
provides federal assistance to States by participating in a percentage of the cost of
construction/renovation and/or per diem costs. In addition, VA assures that State homes provide
quality care through an annual inspection, audit, and reconciliation of records conducted by the
VA medical center of jurisdiction to assure that VA standards are met.
Domiciliary care is a residential rehabilitation program that provides short-term rehabilitation
and long-term health maintenance to veterans who require minimal medical care as they recover
from medical, psychiatric or psychosocial problems. Most domiciliary patients return to the
community after a period of rehabilitation. VA may provide domiciliary care to veterans whose
annual income does not exceed the maximum annual Improved Disability VA Pension Rate or to
veterans who have been determined to have no adequate means of support. Other services
include:
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Hospice/Palliative care provides comfort-oriented and supportive services in the
advanced stages of incurable diseases.
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Respite Care temporarily relieves the spouse or other caregiver from the burden of caring
for a chronically ill or disabled veteran at home.
Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM) evaluates and manages older veterans with
multiple medical, functional or psychological problems and those with particular geriatric
problems receive assessment and treatment from an interdisciplinary team of VA health
professionals.
Community Residential Care provides room, board, limited personal care and supervision
to veterans who do not require hospital or nursing home care but are not able to live
independently because of medical or psychiatric conditions, and who have no family to
provide care.
Home Health Care provides long-term primary medical care to chronically ill veterans in
their own homes under the coordinated care of an interdisciplinary treatment team.
Adult Day Health Care provides health maintenance and rehabilitative services to
veterans in a group setting during daytime hours.
Homemaker / Home Health Aide Services provides health-related services for serviceconnected veterans needing nursing home care, provided by public and private agencies
under a system of case management provided directly by VA staff.
For extended care services, veterans may be subject to a co-pay determined by information
supplied by completing a VA Form 10-10EC, Application For Extended Care Services. VA
social workers are available to assist veterans in interpreting their eligibility and co-pay
requirements if indicated. The co-pay amount is based on each veteran’s financial situation and
is determined upon application for extended care services and will range from $0 to $97 a day.
Unlike co-pays for other VA health care services, which are based on fixed changes for all, longterm care co-pay charges are individually adjusted based on each veteran’s financial status.
Veterans are obligated to pay co-pays for extended care services to the extent the veteran and
veteran’s spouse have available resources. For extended care services of 180 days or less:
Resources = sum of veteran and spouses income - (sum of veteran’s allowance + spousal
allowance + expenses) For extended care services of 181 days or greater: Resources = (value of
liquid assets + value of fixed assets + sum of veteran and spouses income) - (sum of veteran’s
allowance + spousal allowance + spousal resource protection amount + expenses (only if the
veteran has a spouse or dependents residing in the community who is not institutionalized)).
Currently $89,280 in liquid assets is set-aside for spousal resource protection. This permits the
spouse to maintain some liquid assets while they live in the community. For more information,
including definitions of the other terms in the resources equations, refer to the Federal Register,
Vol. 69, No. 126, Page 39846.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
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Household Information
o User's birthdate
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: Title 38, Part V, Subchapter II, $7314.
VHA - Gulf War Illness
Description: Gulf War veterans from Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Iraqi
Freedom, are eligible for a complete physical exam under the Persian Gulf Registry program.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: PL 105-368.
VHA - Home Health Care
Description: Skilled home care is provided by VA or through contract agencies to veterans that
are homebound with chronic diseases. Available home health services includes nursing,
physical/occupational therapy, and social services.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Income and Asset Profile
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o
o
o
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User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
User's (or family's) assets
User's unearned income, including VA disability income
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 38 CFR §17.47.
VHA - Home Improvements
Description: Under the Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) program,
veterans with service-connected disabilities or veterans with non-service-connected disabilities
may receive assistance for any home improvement necessary for the continuation of treatment or
for disability access to the home and essential lavatory and sanitary facilities. A HISA grant is
available to veterans who have received a medical determination indicating that improvements
and structural alterations are necessary or appropriate for the effective and economical treatment
of his/her disability. A veteran may receive both a HISA grant and either a Special Home
Adaptation (SHA) grant or a Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: Title 38, Section 1717.
VHA - Homeless
Description: VA offers special programs and initiatives specifically designed to help homeless
veterans live as independently as possible. VA’s treatment programs offer:
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Outreach to veterans living on streets and in shelters
Clinical assessment and referral to medical treatment
Domiciliary care, case management, and rehabilitation
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Employment and income assistance
Supported permanent housing.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: USC 38 Chapter 20.
VHA - Hospice
Description: A hospice program is a coordinated program of palliative and supportive services
provided in both home and inpatient settings for persons in the last phases of incurable disease so
that they may live as fully and as comfortably as possible. The program emphasizes the
management of pain and other physical symptoms, the management of the psychosocial
problems and the spiritual comfort of the patient and the patient’s family or significant other.
Services are provided by a medically-directed interdisciplinary team of health care providers and
volunteers. Bereavement care is available to the family following the death of the patient.
Hospice services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Hospice care generally
requires the acknowledgment of the patient, the family and the physician that the illness is
terminal, that the primary focus of treatment is on comfort rather than cure, and that aggressive
attempts at curative treatment are relinquished. Palliative care also has the primary objective of
comfort, while limited aggressive treatment may be applied across a continuum at the discretion
of the patient or surrogate. There are no co-pays for hospice care provided in any setting.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
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References: Title 38 1703; VHA HANDBOOK 1140.5; VHA HANDBOOK 1140.6.
VHA - Ionizing Radiation Registry
Description: VA set up the cost-free Ionizing Radiation Registry health examination program to
track the special health concerns of veterans exposed to ionizing radiation during military
service. Veterans interested in participating in this program should contact the Environmental
Health Coordinator or Patient Care Advocate at the nearest VA medical center to schedule an
examination. The Ionizing Radiation Registry health examination is cost-free for veterans who
participated in atmospheric nuclear weapons testing, served with the US occupational forces in
Hiroshima or Nagasaki or were POWs there, were exposed to ionizing radiation while
participating in another radiation-risk activity or received nasopharyngeal (NP) radium
treatments while in military service. If you participate, you’ll get a comprehensive physical
examination and more. VA offers special priority enrollment at VA medical facilities and other
health care services for Atomic Veterans who have diseases associated with radiation exposure
during military service. Other veterans who have diseases associated with radiation exposure
during military service may be eligible for health care benefits too.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o
Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o
VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's birthdate
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: Public Law (Pub. L.) 99-576 §232(1986), Ionizing Radiation Registry.
VHA - Long Term Care
Description: A veteran receiving long term care services may also be responsible for additional
co-payments for services received as an inpatient, outpatient or for medications. Long Term Care
Services subject to co-payments include: nursing home care, domiciliary care, respite care,
geriatric evaluation, and adult day health care. Exemptions from long term care co-payments
include: Veterans who have been continuously receiving long term care services on or before
November 30, 1999; veterans with a compensable service-connected disability; veterans whose
annual income is less than the single veteran pension rate; veterans with a 0% non-compensable
service-connected disability who receive treatment for the service-connected disability; special
categories of veterans (i.e., Agent Orange, Ionizing Radiation, Persian Gulf, veterans receiving
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military sexual trauma counseling, combat veterans) who receive treatment related to their
exposure or experience.
Priority Group 3 and 4 veterans, who do not have compensable service-connected conditions,
will be required to submit financial information to determine the co-payment responsibilities.
Veterans whose income is above the single base pension level and below the means test income
threshold and 0% non-compensable service-connected veterans receiving care for a condition
other than their service-connected disability will be required to provide a detailed financial
assessment of income, assets, and expenses to determine co-payment responsibilities. Priority
Group 6 veterans will be assessed co-payments when the services provided are not related to
their exposure or experience. Other certain veterans enrolled in Priority Group 6 (WWI and
Mexican Border War veterans) are required to submit financial information to determine the copayment responsibilities. A detailed financial assessment of income, assets, and expenses will be
conducted to determine the co-payment responsibilities of non-service-connected veterans and
0% non-compensable service-connected veterans.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
o User's unreimbursed medical expenses
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: Title 38 USC Chapter 17.
VHA - Maternity
Description: VA will provide maternity care including labor and delivery to female veterans, but
is currently unable to provide care to the child after birth.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
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o
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VA Health Priority Status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's unreimbursed medical expenses
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: 38 USC Parts I & II; 38 USC. §1720D; also see VHA Handbook Section 10.19 for
gender specific authorizations.
VHA - Military Sexual Trauma Counseling
Description: VA provides counseling and treatment to help male and female veterans overcome
psychological trauma resulting from sexual trauma while serving on active duty. In addition to
counseling, related services are available at VA medical facilities. Veterans will receive care at
no charge for conditions related to Military Sexual Trauma.
Questions:


Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 38 USC. §1720D.
VHA - Non-VA Health Care Services
Description: VA may authorize veterans to receive care at a non-VA health care facility when
the needed services are not available at the VA health care facility, or when the veteran is unable
to travel the distance to the VA health care facility. Non-VA care must be authorized by VA in
advance. Veterans may also obtain services not covered in the benefits package through private
health care providers at their own expense.
Questions:

Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
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Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's unreimbursed medical expenses
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: Title 38, United States Code, §1728 and Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations,
§17.120-132.
VHA - Nose or Throat Radium
Description: Veterans who served as an aviator in the active military, naval, or air service before
the end of the Korean conflict or received submarine training in active naval service before
January 1, 1965 may have received nasopharyngeal radium treatment (NPR) while in the
military. Some veterans who received this treatment may have head and/or neck cancer that may
be related to the exposure. These veterans are provided care for this condition at no cost.
Veterans who remember being treated or think they were treated with nasopharyngeal radium
should tell their physicians about it. Veterans who have health problems they think may be
related to nasopharyngeal radium also are encouraged to contact the nearest VA medical center.
Questions:
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
Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 38 USC. §1720E.
VHA - Nursing Home Care
Description: VA’s nursing home programs include Community Living Centers, contract
community nursing homes and state homes. More than 90 percent of VA’s medical centers
provide home- and community-based outpatient long-term care programs. A patient-focused
approach supports the wishes of most patients to live at home in their own communities for as
long as possible. Many veterans will receive inpatient long-term care through programs of VA or
state homes. Eligibility for VA nursing home care:
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Any veteran who has a service-connected disability rating of 70 percent or more;
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A veteran who is rated 60 percent service-connected and is unemployable or has an
official rating of "permanent and total disabled;"
A veteran with combined disability ratings of 70 percent or more;
A veteran whose service-connected disability is clinically determined to require nursing
home care;
Non-service-connected veterans and those officially referred to as "zero percent, noncompensable, service-connected" veterans who require nursing home care for any nonservice-connected disability and who meet income and asset criteria; or
If space and resources are available, other veterans on a case-by-case basis with priority
given to service-connected veterans and those who need care for post-acute rehabilitation,
respite, hospice, geriatric evaluation and management, or spinal cord injury. For extended
care services, veterans may be subject to a co-pay determined by information supplied by
completing a VA Form 10-10EC, Application For Extended Care Services.
VA social workers are available to assist veterans in interpreting their eligibility and co-pay
requirements if indicated. The co-pay amount is based on each veteran’s financial situation and
is determined upon application for extended care services and will range from $0 to $97 a day.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 38 USC. §1720 Transfers for nursing home care; adult day health care b. 38 USC.
1710, 1710A are authorities for VA nursing home care c. 38CFR §17.46, Eligibility for hospital,
domiciliary or nursing home care of persons discharged or released from active military, naval,
or air service; 17.47, Considerations applicable in determining eligibility for hospital, nursing
home or domiciliary care. d. 38 CFR §17.57 Use of community nursing homes, 17.60 Extensions
of nursing home care beyond six months VHA Handbook 1142.01.
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VHA - Project 112/Shipboard Hazard
Description: Project 112 is the name of the overall program for both shipboard and land-based
biological and chemical testing that was conducted by the United States (US) military between
1962 and 1973. Project SHAD was the shipboard portion of these tests, which were conducted to
determine:
1)
2)
3)
The effectiveness of shipboard detection of chemical and biological warfare agents;
The effectiveness of protective measures against these agents; and
The potential risk to American forces posed by these weapons.
VA provides a physical examination to veterans who participated in SHAD. Veterans with
conditions recognized by VA as associated with Project SHAD are eligible for enrollment in
Priority Group 6, unless eligible for enrollment in a higher priority. In addition, veterans will
receive care at no charge for conditions related to exposure.
Questions:
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
Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 38 USC. §1710(e)(1)(E).
VHA - Prosthetic
Description: Enrolled veterans receiving VA care for any condition may receive medically
necessary VA prosthetic appliances, equipment and devices, such as artificial limbs, orthopedic
braces and shoes, wheelchairs, crutches and canes, and other durable medical equipment and
supplies. Certain veterans who are not enrolled are also eligible for prosthetic items: veterans
needing prosthetic items for a service-connected disability and veterans rated service-connected
50% or more.
Questions:
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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
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o
Discharge Status
Specific time and place of service
References: 38 CFR 17.150 and 17.154.
VHA - Readjustment Counseling
Description: Vet Centers provide readjustment counseling services and mental health services.
Questions:


Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's birthdate
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 38 USC. §1712A.
VHA - Standard Package
Description: A person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was
discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable may qualify for VA health care
benefits. Reservists and National Guard members may also qualify for VA health care benefits if
they were called to active duty (other than for training only) by a Federal order and completed
the full period for which they were called or ordered to active duty.
Minimum Duty Requirements: Veterans who enlisted after Sept. 7, 1980, or who entered active
duty after Oct. 16, 1981, must have served 24 continuous months or the full period for which
they were called to active duty in order to be eligible. This minimum duty requirement may not
apply to veterans discharged for hardship, early out or a disability incurred or aggravated in the
line of duty. Enrollment: For most veterans, entry into the VA health care system begins by
applying for enrollment. To apply, complete VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health
Benefits, which may be obtained from any VA health care facility or regional benefits office, on
line at http://www.va.gov/1010ez.htm or by calling 1-877-222-VETS (8387). Once enrolled,
veterans can receive health care at VA health care facilities anywhere in the country. Veterans
enrolled in the VA health care system are afforded privacy rights under federal law. VA’s Notice
of Privacy Practices, which describes how VA may use and disclose veterans’ medical
information, is also available at
http://www.va.gov/vhapublications/viewpublication.asp?pub_ID=1089.
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The following four categories of veterans are not required to enroll, but are urged to do so to
permit better planning of health resources:
Veterans with a service-connected disability of 50 percent or more.
Veterans seeking care for a disability the military determined was incurred or aggravated
in the line of duty, but which VA has not yet rated, within 12 months of discharge.
3) Veterans seeking care for a service-connected disability only.
4) Veterans seeking registry examinations (Ionizing Radiation, Agent Orange, Gulf
War/Operation Iraqi Freedom and Depleted Uranium). Priority Groups During
enrollment, each veteran is assigned to a priority group.
1)
2)
VA uses priority groups to balance demand for VA health care enrollment with resources.
Changes in available resources may reduce the number of priority groups VA can enroll. If this
occurs, VA will publicize the changes and notify affected enrollees. A description of priority
groups follows:
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Group 1: Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 50 percent or more and/or
veterans determined by VA to be unemployable due to service-connected conditions.
Group 2: Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 30 or 40 percent.
Group 3: Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 10 and 20 percent; veterans
who are former Prisoners of War (POW) or were awarded a Purple Heart medal; veterans
awarded special eligibility for disabilities incurred in treatment or participation in a VA
Vocational Rehabilitation program; and veterans whose discharge was for a disability
incurred or aggravated in the line of duty.
Group 4: Veterans receiving aid and attendance or housebound benefits and/or veterans
determined by VA to be catastrophically disabled.
Group 5: Veterans receiving VA pension benefits or eligible for Medicaid programs, and
non service-connected veterans and non-compensable, zero percent service-connected
veterans whose gross annual household income and net worth are below the established
VA means test thresholds.
Group 6: Veterans of World War I; veterans seeking care solely for certain conditions
associated with exposure to radiation during atmospheric testing or during the occupation
of Hiroshima and Nagasaki; for any illness associated with participation in tests
conducted by the Department of Defense (DoD) as part of Project 112/Project SHAD;
veterans with zero percent service-connected disabilities who are receiving disability
compensation benefits and veterans who served in a theater of combat operations after
Nov. 11, 1998 as follows:
1. Veterans discharged from active duty on or after Jan. 28, 2003, who were enrolled
as of Jan. 28, 2008 and veterans who apply for enrollment after Jan. 28, 2008, for
5 years post discharge
2. Veterans discharged from active duty before Jan. 28, 2003, who apply for
enrollment after Jan. 28, 2008, until Jan. 27, 2011
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
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Group 7: Veterans with income and/or net worth above the VA national income threshold
and income below the geographic income threshold who agree to pay co-pays.
Group 8: Veterans with income and/or net worth above the VA national income threshold
and the geographic income threshold who agree to pay co-pays.
NOTE: While VA does not currently enroll new veterans into Priority Group 8 at the time of
publication of this guide, VA has proposed regulatory changes to re-open enrollment for veterans
whose incomes exceed the current VA means test and geographic means test income thresholds
by 10 percent or less. Should these new regulations take effect as anticipated, VA will
retroactively review all enrollment applications received on or after Jan. 1, 2009 to determine
whether these new rules will allow enrollment. Recently Discharged Combat Veterans Effective
Jan. 28, 2008, veterans discharged from active duty on or after Jan. 28, 2003, are eligible for
enhanced enrollment placement into Priority Group 6 (unless eligible for higher enrollment
Priority Group placement) for five-years post discharge. Veterans with combat service after Nov.
11, 1998, who were discharged from active duty before Jan. 28, 2003, and who apply for
enrollment on or after Jan. 28, 2008, are eligible for this enhanced enrollment benefit through
Jan. 27, 2011. During this period of enhanced enrollment benefits, these veterans receive VA
care and medications at no cost for any condition that may be related to their combat service.
Veterans, including activated reservists and members of the National Guard, are eligible for the
enhanced “Combat Veteran” benefits if they served on active duty in a theater of combat
operations after Nov. 11, 1998, and have been discharged under other than dishonorable
conditions.
Questions:




Health Profile
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o
User's birthdate
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: Title 38.
VHA - Women Veterans Services
Description: Women veterans are eligible for the same Medical Benefit Package as all veterans.
In addition to the Medical Benefits Package, the Women’s Program provides women’s genderspecific health care; such as
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Hormone replacement therapy
Breast care
Gynecological care
Maternity care
Limited infertility treatment (excludes in-vitro fertilization)
The Sexual Trauma Treatment Center is also affiliated with the Women’s Clinic, providing
treatment for the psychological effects of sexual trauma.
Questions:



Health Profile
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's birthdate
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: 38 USC Parts I & II; 38 USC. §1720D; also see VHA Handbook Section 10.19 for
gender specific authorizations.
Women Vietnam Veterans - Birth Defects (Information Only)
Description: Benefits for Children of Women Vietnam Veterans Born with Certain Birth
Defects
Questions:


Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's birthdate
References: PL 106-416; PL 106-419; 38 CFR Chapter 18; 38 CFR 3.815; Title 38, Part II,
Chapter 18, Subchapter II, Sect. 1812.
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Housing
HUD-VASH Certificates
Description: The Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of
Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (HUD-VASH) Program, through a cooperative partnership,
provides long-term case management, supportive services and permanent housing support.
Eligible homeless Veterans receive VA provided case management and supportive services to
support stability and recovery from physical and mental health, substance use, and functional
concerns contributing to or resulting from homelessness. HUD provides 20,000 “Housing
Choice” Section 8 vouchers designated for HUD-VASH to participating Public Housing
Authorities to assist with rent payment. The program goals include promoting maximal Veteran
recovery and independence to sustain permanent housing in the community for the Veteran and
the Veteran’s family. This program was designed to address the needs of the most vulnerable
homeless Veterans. To be eligible for this program, Veterans must be VA Health Care eligible,
homeless, need and participate in case management services in order to obtain and sustain
permanent independent community housing.
Questions:




Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
o User's unreimbursed medical expenses
Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: Section 12 of Public Law 107-95.
Home Loan Guaranty
Description: A VA loan is a mortgage loan guaranteed by the US Department of Veterans
Affairs. The loan may be issued by qualified lenders.
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The VA loan was designed to offer long-term financing to American veterans or their surviving
spouses (provided they do not remarry). The basic intention of the VA direct home loan program
is to supply home financing to eligible veterans in areas where private financing is not generally
available and to help veterans purchase properties with no down payment. Eligible areas are
designated by the VA as housing credit shortage areas and are generally rural areas and small
cities and towns not near metropolitan or commuting areas of large cities.
The VA loan allows veterans 100% financing without private mortgage insurance or 20% second
mortgage. A VA funding fee of 0 to 3.3% of the loan amount is paid to the VA and is allowed to
be financed. In a purchase, veterans may borrow up to 100% of the sales price or reasonable
value of the home, whichever is less. Since there is no monthly PMI more of the mortgage
payment goes directly towards qualifying for the loan amount, allowing for larger loans with the
same payment. In a refinance, veterans may borrow up to 90% of reasonable value, where
allowed by state laws.
Questions:




Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o VA Disability Rating
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: M26-1 Guaranteed Loan Processing Manual; Wikipedia
Mortgage Protection (Information Only)
Description: COVERAGE Veterans Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI) is designed to provide
financial protection to cover an eligible veteran's outstanding home mortgage in the event of
his/her death. This mortgage insurance program is administered by the Department of Veterans
Affairs. The insurance is available only to disabled veterans, who, because of their disabilities,
have received a Specially Adapted Housing Grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
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Questions:



Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o VA Disability Rating
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: 38 USC. 501, and 2101 through 2106.
Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grants
Description: Veterans or service members who have specific service-connected disabilities may
be entitled to a grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for the purpose of
constructing an adapted home or modifying an existing home to meet their adaptive needs. The
goal of the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant Program is to provide a barrier-free living
environment that affords the veterans or service members a level of independent living he or she
may not normally enjoy. Grants provided under the SAH program may also be used outside the
United States. However, it must be reasonably practicable for VA to provide assistance in
acquiring specially adapted housing for the designated country or political subdivision outside
the United States. There are two types of grants administered by VA, which are available to
assist severely disabled veterans or service members in adapting housing to their special needs.
Questions:


Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: Title 38, United States Code, chapter 21. The original statute was Public Law 702,
80th Congress, dated June 19, 1948. Public Law 109-233, The Veterans Housing Opportunity
and Benefits Act of 2006, dated June 15, 2006, and Public Law 110-289, Economic and Housing
Recovery Act of 2008, dated July 30, 2008, amended Public Law 702 and expanded benefit
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eligibility.110-289. 2. Which veterans or service members are basically eligible for the VA
Manual M26-12 Specially Adapted Housing Grant Processing Procedure.
VA Grant and Per Diem Program
Description: VA's Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program is offered annually (as
funding permits) by the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care for Homeless Veterans
(HCHV) Programs to fund community agencies providing services to homeless Veterans. The
purpose is to promote the development and provision of supportive housing and/or supportive
services with the goal of helping homeless Veterans achieve residential stability, increase their
skill levels and/or income, and obtain greater self-determination. Applications are not accepted
for Capital Grants or “Per Diem Only” funding until the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA)
is published in the Federal Register. Funds will be awarded to programs determined to be the
most qualified.
Questions:
References: Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Service Programs Act of 1992, Sections 3 and
4, Public Law 102-590; 38 USC. 7721 note; Public Law 104-110.
Income Maintenance
Aid and Attendance
Description: Aid & Attendance Allowance An additional benefit paid to veterans, their spouses,
surviving spouses and parents. This allowance is paid in all Compensation, Dependency and
Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and Pension Programs. It is paid based on the need of aid and
attendance by another person or by specific disability. Special Monthly Compensation (L) can at
times be designated an aid & attendance benefit.
Questions:


Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
References: Eligibility criteria, see 38 CFR §§3.350 (Special Monthly Compensation), 3.351
(Special monthly Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), death compensation, pension
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and spouse's compensation ratings), 3.552 (Determining need for aid & attendance, housebound).
See also Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). Rates, see Special Monthly Compensation
(SMC), Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) - Surviving Spouse or Parents,
Improved Pension - Disability or Death.
Automobile and Special Adaptive Equipment Grants
Description: Automobile Allowance & Adaptive Equipment One automobile allowance is
payable to certain very disabled veterans. Some reimbursement is possible for adaptive
equipment. Check with your nearest office before making any purchases.
Questions:

Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
References: §3.808 Automobiles or other conveyances; certification.
Clothing Allowance
Description: Clothing Allowance Prosthetic appliances and medications have an effect on
clothing. If qualified, a veteran can receive a one time or yearly allowance for reimbursement.
Questions:


Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Health Priority Status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
References: §3.810 Clothing allowance.
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Combat-Related Special Compensation
Description: The Department of Defense has two programs designed to reduce the reduction in
retired pay due to receipt of Veteran Administration compensation, for certain disabled retirees.
Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments (CRDP) provides a 10-year phase-out of the
offset to military retired pay due to receipt of VA disability compensation for members whose
combined disability rating is 50% or greater. Members retired under disability provisions must
have 20 years of service. Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) pays added benefits to
retirees who receive VA disability compensation for combat-related disabilities and have 20
years of service.
Questions:



Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o VA Disability Rating
Household Information
o User's birthdate
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Discharge Status
References: Retirement 3.750 Entitlement to concurrent receipt of military retired pay and
disability compensation 3.750-1 3.751 Statutory awards; retired service personnel 3.751-1 3.752
[Reserved] 3.753 Public Health Service 3.753-1 3.754 Emergency officers’ retirement pay
3.754-1.
Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments (CRDP)
Description: The Department of Defense has two programs designed to reduce the reduction in
retired pay due to receipt of Veteran Administration compensation, for certain disabled retirees.
Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments (CRDP) provides a 10-year phase-out of the
offset to military retired pay due to receipt of VA disability compensation for members whose
combined disability rating is 50% or greater. Members retired under disability provisions must
have 20 years of service. Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) pays added benefits to
retirees who receive VA disability compensation for combat-related disabilities and have 20
years of service.
Questions:

74
Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
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o

VA Disability Rating
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Retirement 3.750 Entitlement to concurrent receipt of military retired pay and
disability compensation 3.750-1 3.751 Statutory awards; retired service personnel 3.751-1 3.752
[Reserved] 3.753 Public Health Service 3.753-1 3.754 Emergency officers’ retirement pay
3.754-1.
Department of Defense Retirement
Description: Military Retired Pay By law, the payment of VA compensation benefits is affected
by the receipt of military retired pay. If you receive military retirement, you may initiate a waiver
of your retired pay to receive the full amount of VA compensation. Until the waiver takes effect,
your compensation will be adjusted or withheld depending on the amount of military retired pay
you are entitled to. The advantage of waiving military retired pay for VA compensation is that
while VA benefits are reportable for Federal tax purposes, they are not taxable. Check with the
IRS web site for more tax information.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o VA Disability Rating
Household Information
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Retirement 3.750 Entitlement to concurrent receipt of military retired pay and
disability compensation 3.750-1 3.751 Statutory awards; retired service personnel 3.751-1 3.752
[Reserved] 3.753 Public Health Service 3.753-1 3.754 Emergency officers’ retirement pay
3.754-1. Basic DoD reg: Department of Defense (DOD) Pay Regulation, Volume 7B (Military
Retired Pay. AR 600-8-7.
Disability Compensation
Description: This benefit program evaluates disability resulting from all types of diseases and
injuries encountered as a result of military service. The degrees of disability that are determined
by VA represent, as far as can practicably be determined, the average loss in wages resulting
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from such diseases and injuries and their complications in civil occupations. Generally, the
degrees of disability specified are also designed to compensate for considerable loss of working
time from exacerbations or illnesses.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: §3.4 Compensation.
Disability Pension
Description: Pension is available to veterans, surviving spouses and children, if the veteran has
qualifying service and there is financial need. Veterans must also have a qualifying disability
which need not be service-connected. Three pension programs are currently being paid. Only one
program is still accepting applications - Improved Disability or Death Pension. Old Law and
Section 306 Disability or Death Pensions recipients are protected at the rate they were receiving
when their program was superseded by Improved Pension on January 1, 1979.
Questions:


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Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's birthdate
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o


User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
o User's unreimbursed medical expenses
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: §3.3 Pension.
Housebound
Description: An additional benefit paid to veterans, their surviving spouses and parents. This
allowance is paid in all Compensation, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and
Pension Programs. It is paid based on specific disabilities and conditions. It is a lesser additional
benefit than Aid & Attendance. Special Monthly Compensation (S) can at times be designated a
housebound benefit.
Questions:


Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
References: §3.351 Special monthly dependency and indemnity compensation, death
compensation, pension and spouse’s compensation ratings.
Individual Unemployability
Description: The Individual Unemployability (IU) benefit is payable when a veteran cannot
secure or retain employment as a result of his/her service-connected disabilities. If you are
unable to maintain employment as a result of your service-connected disabilities, submit current
medical evidence on the extent of your service-connected disabilities. The evidence should
reflect your condition within the past 12 months and include any hospital reports and outpatient
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treatment records. If you do not have the evidence, be sure to provide information telling VA
where the evidence can be obtained. Additionally, a veteran must have: One service-connected
disability ratable at 60 percent or more; OR Two or more service-connected disabilities, at least
one disability ratable at 40 percent or more with a combined rating of 70 percent or more.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
References: §3.340 Total and permanent total ratings and unemployability.
Military Star Card
Description: The MILITARY STAR™ Credit card helps you save money with no annual fee, a
low interest rate and a 25-day grace period before being charged a finance charge. The
MILITARY STAR™ Card can also be used at all AAFES, Marine Corps and Coast Guard
exchanges. You will be asked to validate your exchange shopping privilege by entering your
social security number and date of birth. Your information will be encrypted by the use of secure
sockets layer encryption, the best global secure transaction technology today. Requires additional
data from DoD retiree subject matter expert. Benefit available to DoD retirees and 100% serviceconnected veterans and family members.
Questions:
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

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Health Profile
o VA Disability Rating
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
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
Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: DoD Instruction 1330.17.
National Parks and Recreation Lands Pass Service
Description: A free, lifetime pass - available to US citizens or permanent residents of the United
States that have been medically determined to have a permanent disability - that provides access
to recreation areas managed by five Federal agencies.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: The Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (REA) PL 108-447.
Private Disability Insurance
Description: Private Short Term Disability (STD) and Long Term Disability (LTD) insurance
protects people who can’t work because of a disability. If you have STD or LTD insurance, it
will replace some of the income you lose when you can’t work because of a disability. Some
people have disability insurance from their employers. Others purchase it individually. For both
types of policies, your medical history is important. Each policy will have different details about
signing up for a plan and the benefit you will receive.
Questions:
References: http://www.disabilitybenefits101.org/ca/programs/income_support/ltd/program.htm
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Social Security Disability Insurance
Description: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is wage replacement income for
individuals who have worked and paid FICA taxes and who now have a disability meeting Social
Security disability rules. SSDI provides a variety of benefits to family members when a primary
wage earner in the family becomes disabled or dies. SSDI is financed with Social Security taxes
paid by workers, employers, and self-employed persons. SSDI benefits are payable to disabled
workers, widows, widowers, and children or adults disabled since childhood who are otherwise
eligible.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
Household Information
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
References:
http://www.disabilitybenefits101.org/ca/programs/income_support/ss_disability/ssdi/program.ht
m
Special Monthly Compensation
Description: Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) is a rate paid in addition to (i.e., SMC (K))
or in place of 0% to 100% combined degree compensation. To qualify, a veteran must be
disabled beyond a combined degree percentage or due to special circumstances (i.e., aid and
attendance, loss of use of one hand, etc.). SMCs are referred to by the letters (K) through (R.2).
These alphabetic designations follow the paragraph numbering system in 38 USC. §1114.
Questions:
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
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Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
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
Service Details
o Combat participation (Y/N)
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
o Specific time and place of service
References: Ratings for Special Purposes 3.350 Special monthly compensation ratings 3.350-1
3.351 Special monthly dependency and indemnity compensation, death compensation, pension
and spouse’s compensation ratings 3.351-1 3.352 Criteria for determining need for aid and
attendance and “permanently bedridden” 3.352-1 3.353 Determinations of incompetency and
competency 3.353-1 3.354 Determinations of insanity 3.354-1 3.355 Testamentary capacity for
insurance purposes 3.355-1 3.356 Conditions which determine permanent incapacity for selfsupport 3.356-1 3.357 Civil service preference ratings 3.357-1 3.358 Compensation for disability
or death from hospitalization, medical or surgical treatment, examinations or vocational
rehabilitation training (§3.800) 3.358-1 3.359 Determination of service connection for former
members of the Armed Forces of Czechoslovakia or Poland 3.359-1 3.360 Service-connected
health-care eligibility of certain persons administratively discharged under other than honorable
condition 3.360-1 3.361 Benefits under 38 USC. 1151(a) for additional disability or death due to
hospital care, medical or surgical treatment, examination, training and rehabilitation services, or
compensated work therapy program 3.361-1 3.362 Offsets under 38 USC. 1151(b) of benefits
awarded under 38 USC. 1151(a) 3.362-1 3.363 Bar to benefits under 38 USC. 1151 3.363-1.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Description: The Supplemental Food Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income people and
families buy the food they need for good health. You apply for benefits by completing a State
application form. Benefits are provided on an electronic card that is used like an ATM card and
accepted at most grocery stores. SNAP was previously known as Food Stamps.
Questions:


Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
o User's unreimbursed medical expenses
References: http://www.fns.usda.gov/FSP/
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Supplemental Security Income
Description: The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program may provide monthly disability
income for those who meet Social Security rules for disability and who have limited income and
resources. To be considered medically disabled according to Social Security rules, an individual
must be unable to engage in any "Substantial Gainful Activity" (SGA) due to any medically
determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which
has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.
Questions:



Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's (or family's) assets
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
References:
http://www.disabilitybenefits101.org/ca/programs/income_support/ss_disability/ssi/program.htm
Unemployment Compensation
Description: Unemployment Insurance is a State program that provides weekly unemployment
insurance payments for workers who lose their job through no fault of their own. Unemployment
Insurance is funded by employers who pay taxes on wages paid to employees.
Questions:

Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o User's unearned income, including VA disability income
References: http://www.edd.ca.gov/Unemployment/
Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Service members (UCX)
Description: The Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Service members (UCX) program
provides benefits for eligible ex-military personnel. In addition, former members of the National
Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and US Public Health Service
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(USPHS) Commissioned Corps are covered under the UCX program. The program is
administered by the States as agents of the Federal government. If you were on active duty with a
branch of the US military, you may be entitled to benefits based on that service. You must have
been separated under honorable conditions. There is no payroll deduction from service members'
wages for unemployment insurance protection. Benefits are paid for by the various branches of
the military, NOAA or USPHS.
Questions:
References: http://www.ows.doleta.gov/unemploy/ucx.asp
Workers Compensation
Description: If you get hurt or sick because of work, your employer is required by law to pay for
workers' compensation benefits. Workers' comp insurance provides six basic benefits: medical
care, temporary disability benefits, permanent disability benefits, supplemental job displacement
benefits or vocational rehabilitation and death benefits. Workers' compensation is the nation's
oldest social insurance program: It was adopted in most states during the second decade of the
20th century. It is a no-fault system, meaning you don't need to prove your injury was someone
else's fault in order to receive benefits. The workers' compensation system is based on a trade-off
between employees and employers. Employees are entitled to receive prompt, effective medical
treatment for on-the-job injuries no matter who was at fault and, in return, are prevented from
suing their employers over those injuries.
Questions:

Income and Asset Profile
o User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
References: http://www.dir.ca.gov/DWC/InjuredWorker.htm
Independent Living and Family Support
AMC Travel (Information Only)
Description: Space available travel for retirees and family members.
Questions:

Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: www.amc.af.mil/amctravel/index.asp
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Army Emergency Relief
Description: Should be titled "Military Service Aid Societies".
Questions:




Health Profile
o SSA Disability Status
o VA Disability Rating
o VA Health Priority Status
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's birthdate
o User's marital status
Income and Asset Profile
o
User's (or family's ) earnings and/or self employment income
o
User's (or family's) assets
o
User's unearned income, including VA disability income
o
User's unreimbursed medical expenses
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: www.aerhq.org www.nmcrs.org/ www.afas.org/
Family Service members' Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
Description: Family Service members' Group Life Insurance (FSGLI) is a program extended to
the spouses and dependent children of members insured under the SGLI program. FSGLI
provides up to a maximum of $100,000 of insurance coverage for spouses, not to exceed the
amount of SGLI the insured member has in force, and $10,000 for dependent children. Spousal
coverage is issued in increments of $10,000.
Questions:


Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
References: Title 38: Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief PART 6—UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT LIFE INSURANCE.
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Military Records Assistance (Information Only)
Description: Online process for retrieving military records.
Questions:



Health Profile
o Subjective Assessment
Household Information
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: http://www.archives.gov/veterans/evetrecs/index.html
Service Disabled Veterans Insurance
Description: (1951 to Present) The Service Disabled Veterans Insurance (S-DVI) program was
established in 1951 and is still open to new issues. Basic SDVI - To be eligible for basic SDVI, a
veteran must meet all the following conditions:



Must have been released from active duty under other than dishonorable conditions on or
after April 25, 1951;
Must have received a rating for a service-connected disability;
Must be in good health except for any service-connected conditions.
Application must be made within two years of being granted service-connection for a disability.
(Disabled veterans are advised to investigate other commercial insurance options prior to
purchasing SDVI. Other commercial policies, especially group plans through employers or
colleges, may well be better buys.) SDVI is available in a variety of permanent plans as well as
term insurance. Policies are issued for a maximum face amount of $10,000. Under certain
conditions, the Basic SDVI policy provides for a waiver of premiums in case of total disability.
Veterans who are granted service-connection for a disability will receive VA form 29-4364,
Application For Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance, along with their Notice of Disability
Rating. They must submit the application along with the first month's premium within two years
from the date service-connection is established. Supplemental SDVI - Policyholders who carry
the basic SDVI coverage and who become eligible for a waiver of premiums due to total
disability can apply for and be granted additional Supplemental SDVI of up to $20,000. The
insured has up to one year after being notified of his/her eligibility for waiver on the basic policy
to apply for the Supplemental SDVI. No waiver of premiums due to total disability can be
granted on Supplemental SDVI coverage.
Questions:
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

Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Title 38: Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief PART 6—UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT LIFE INSURANCE.
Service Members Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
Description: SGLI is a program of low cost group life insurance for service members on active
duty, ready reservists, members of the National Guard, members of the Commissioned Corps of
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Public Health Service, cadets and
midshipmen of the four service academies, and members of the Reserve Officer Training Corps.
Questions:

Service Details
o Dates of active military service
References: Title 38: Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief PART 6—UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT LIFE INSURANCE.
Service members' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program
(TSGLI)
Description: Every member who has SGLI also has TSGLI effective December 1, 2005. This
coverage applies to active duty members, reservists, National Guard members, funeral honors
duty and one-day muster duty. This benefit is also provided retroactively for members who
incurred severe losses as a result of a traumatic injury between October 7, 2001 and December 1,
2005 if the loss was the direct result of injuries incurred in Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi
Freedom.
Questions:


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Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
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o
Specific time and place of service
References: TSGLI Procedures Guide Version 2.3 – August 5, 2009.
Special Survivor Indemnity Allowance
Description: A provision of the National Defense Authorization Act Fiscal Year 2008, Public
Law 110-181, established the SSIA for surviving spouses who are the beneficiary of the Survivor
Benefit Plan (SBP) annuity, and their SBP annuity is partially or fully offset by their
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), paid by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The provision that established SSIA also applies to the surviving spouses of members who died
on active duty whose SBP annuity is partially or fully offset by their DIC.
Questions:


Household Information
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: A provision of the National Defense Authorization Act Fiscal Year 2008, Public
Law 110-181 http://www.dfas.mil/retiredpay/specialsurvivorindemnityallowance.html
Survivor Assistance Program
Description: Each service has its own independent program. Survivors’ assistance and benefits
are provided in unique ways peculiar to each serve. These include financial, transitional,
emotional support and entitlements issues.
Questions:

Service Details
o
Combat participation (Y/N)
o
Discharge Status
References: https://www.hrc.army.mil/site/active/TAGD/CMAOC/cmaoc.htm
https://cs.mhf.dod.mil/content/dav/mhf/QOLLibrary/Project%20Documents/MilitaryHOMEFRONT/Service%20Providers/Casualty%20Assis
tance/Survivors%20Guide.pdf
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Survivor Benefit Program
Description: The Uniformed Services Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) is an insurance plan that will
pay your surviving spouse a monthly payment (annuity) to help make up for the loss of your
retirement income.
Questions:


Household Information
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: DoD Directive 1332.27, "Survivor Benefit Plan".
Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
Description: VGLI is a program of post-separation insurance which allows service members to
convert their SGLI coverage to renewable term insurance. Members with full-time SGLI
coverage are eligible for VGLI upon release from service.
Questions:


Household Information
o User's birthdate
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: Title 38: Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief PART 6—UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT LIFE INSURANCE.
Veterans' Mortgage Life Insurance
Description: The Veterans Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI) program was begun in 1971 to
provide mortgage life insurance to severely disabled veterans. To be eligible, a veteran must
have received a Specially Adapted Housing Grant from VA. The purpose of such grants is to
help the veteran build or modify a home to accommodate his or her disabilities. VMLI is payable
only to the mortgage holder (i.e., a bank or mortgage lender), not to a beneficiary. The amount of
coverage equals the amount of the mortgage still owed but the maximum can never exceed
$90,000. This is decreasing term insurance which has no loan or cash values and pays no
dividends. This program is still open to new issues.
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Questions:


Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Specific treatments
o Subjective Assessment
o VA Disability Rating
Service Details
o Discharge Status
References: Title 38: Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief PART 6—UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT LIFE INSURANCE.
Victims of Abuse - NonRetirement Eligible Members (Transitional Compensation)
Description: Transitional compensation to abused dependents of nonretirement eligible
members of the Armed Forces.
Questions:



Health Profile
o Specific diagnoses, symptoms, or conditions
o Subjective Assessment
Household Information
o Characteristics of others in User's Household
o User's marital status
Service Details
o Dates of active military service
o Discharge Status
References: DoD 7000.14-R, VOLUME 7B, CHAPTER 60 “VICTIMS OF ABUSE –
NONRETIREMENT ELIGIBLE MEMBERS”.
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Appendix B: Matrix Program Aspects
Health
Armed Forces Retirement Home
Qualitative
Delta Dental
Qualitative / Quantitative
Dependent & Survivor – CHAMPVA
Qualitative / Quantitative
Dependent & Survivor - Spina Bifida
Qualitative / Quantitative
Dependent & Survivor - Vietnam Children
Qualitative / Quantitative
Discharge Dental Exam
Information Only
DoD Direct Medical Care
Qualitative / Quantitative
Marital Counseling
Qualitative
Medicaid
Qualitative / Quantitative
Medicare
Qualitative / Quantitative
Suicide Prevention
Information Only
TRICARE Transition Assistance
Information Only
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Tricare
Information Only
Tricare For Life
Qualitative / Quantitative
Tricare Prime
Qualitative / Quantitative
Tricare Standard
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Agent Orange Registry
Information Only
VHA - Beneficiary Travel
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Bereavement Counseling
Information Only
VHA - Blind Veterans Services
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - CHAMPVA
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Combat Veteran Eligibility
Qualitative
VHA - DentalCare
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA – Depleted Uranium
Information Only
VHA - Emergency Care (Non-VA)
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Eyeglasses and Hearing Aids
Qualitative / Quantitative
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VHA - Foreign Medical Program
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Geriatric Long Term Care
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Gulf War Illness
Information Only
VHA - Home Health Care
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Home Improvements
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Homeless
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Hospice
Qualitative
VHA - Ionizing Radiation Registry
Qualitative
VHA - Long Term Care
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Maternity
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Military Sexual Trauma Counseling
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Non-VA Health Care Services
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Nose or Throat Radium
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Nursing Home Care
Qualitative / Quantitative
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VHA - Project 112/Shipboard Hazard
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Prosthetic
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA - Readjustment Counseling
Qualitative
VHA - Standard Package
Qualitative / Quantitative / Information
VHA - Women Veterans Services
Qualitative / Quantitative
VHA – Women Vietnam Veterans Birth Defects
Qualitative / Quantitative
Income Maintenance
Aid and Attendance
Qualitative / Quantitative
Automobile and Special Adaptive Equipment Grants
Qualitative / Quantitative
Clothing Allowance
Qualitative / Quantitative
Combat-Related Special Compensation
Qualitative / Quantitative
Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments (CRDP)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Department of Defense Retirement
Qualitative / Quantitative
Disability Compensation
Qualitative / Quantitative
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Disability Pension
Qualitative / Quantitative
Housebound
Qualitative / Quantitative
Individual Unemployability
Qualitative / Quantitative
Military Star Card
Qualitative / Information
National Parks and Recreation Lands Pass Service
Qualitative / Information
Private Disability Insurance
Qualitative / Quantitative
Social Security Disability Insurance
Qualitative / Quantitative
Special Monthly Compensation
Qualitative / Quantitative
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Qualitative / Quantitative
Supplemental Security Income
Qualitative / Quantitative
Unemployment Compensation
Qualitative / Quantitative
Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Service Members (UCX)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Workers Compensation
Qualitative / Quantitative
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Education and Training
Montgomery GI Bill
Qualitative / Quantitative
Montgomery GI Bill - Selected Reserve
Qualitative / Quantitative
Post 9/11 GI Bill
Qualitative / Quantitative
Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program (DEA)
Qualitative / Quantitative
VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Veterans Employment & Training Service
Information Only
Work Force Investment Act (WIA)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Employment
Center for Veteran Enterprises
Information Only
Compensated Work Therapy
Qualitative / Quantitative
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
Information Only
Federal Job Preference
Qualitative / Quantitative
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HireVetsFirst
Information Only
Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Military & Civilian Sponsor Dependent Hiring
Qualitative / Quantitative
Ticket to Work Program
Qualitative / Quantitative
Transition Assistance Program (TAP)
Information Only
Veterans Recruitment Appointments (VRAs)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Veterans' Workforce Investment Program
Qualitative / Quantitative
Worker Opportunity Tax Credit
Qualitative / Quantitative
Housing
HUD-VASH Certificates
Qualitative / Quantitative
Home Loan Guaranty
Qualitative / Quantitative
Mortgage Protection
Qualitative / Quantitative
Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grants
Qualitative / Quantitative
VA Grant and Per Diem Program
Qualitative / Quantitative
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Independent Living and Family Support
AMC Travel
Information Only
Army Emergency Relief
Qualitative / Quantitative
Family Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Military Records Assistance
Information Only
Service Disabled Veterans Insurance
Qualitative / Quantitative
Service Members Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
Information Only
Service Members' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program
(TSGLI)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Special Survivor Indemnity Allowance
Qualitative / Quantitative
Survivor Assistance Program
Qualitative / Quantitative
Survivor Benefit Program
Qualitative / Quantitative
Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
Qualitative / Quantitative
Veterans' Mortgage Life Insurance
Qualitative / Quantitative
Victims of Abuse Non-Retirement Eligible Members (Transitional Compensation)
Information Only
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Appendix C: Resources Directory
Data, Fact Sheets, Demographics, and Research
The Resources Directory serves to inform the project Matrix and partners in Phase II and the
design and development activities of Phase III. The project logs materials we receive from
veterans as they learn about the project in our outreach activities. Below is a sampler from this
working log which all project partners access within virtual office, web based project
management software.
Vets Working with Vets - Veterans Peer Mentoring
Veterans Service Organizations
Veterans Benefits Network
Online forums on veterans’ benefits issues
http://vets.yuku.com/directory
Hadit.com
Veterans-to-veterans forums
http://www.hadit.com/
USA Together
Innovative matching of needs and donations
http://www.usatogether.org
American Legion
Chartered by Congress, the American Legion serves as a wartime veterans’ organization
http://www.legion.org
Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA)
Chartered by Congress, PVA advocates on behalf of veterans with spinal cord injury and spinal
cord disease
http://www.pva.org
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
VFW drives veteran memorial fundraising efforts, sponsors special events for disabled vets and
recognizes volunteer service
http://www.vfw.org
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Veterans of Modern Warfare (VMW)
VMW serves the nation’s most recent war veterans with information on benefits, issue advocacy
and social supports.
http://www.vmwusa.org
Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA)
Chartered by Congress, VVA advocates on behalf of Vietnam-era veterans and their families.
http://www.vva.org
VAWatchdog.org
Independent investigative journalism on veterans’ issues
http://www.vawatchdog.org
Health Services
Veterans Health Administration
VA Benefits & Health Care Utilization
January 24, 2008
Office of Policy and Planning National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics
One-page statistical breakdown of recipients of Veterans’ benefits
Department of Defense
Department of Defense website
http://www.defense.gov/
Medicare and Medicaid
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/
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Income Maintenance
Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Compensation
Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors
2009
Annual publication outlining resources and services available from the US Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA)
http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/current_benefits.asp
Understanding the VA and DOD Disability Benefit System
March 2008
Fact sheet outlining both programs.
http://www.nchv.org/docs/VADoDFactSheet11.pdf
United States Code Title 38 Veterans Benefits
http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?sid=3ce9d6451279252d22534eb7b0779eed&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38tab_02.tpl
United Stated Code Title 10 Armed Forces
http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/usc.cgi?ACTION=BROWSE&title=10usc&PDFS=YES
Veterans Benefits Administration References Web Automated Reference Material System
(WARMS)
Veterans Benefits Administration, VBA
http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/
Annual Benefits Report – FY 2006
Veterans Benefits Administration, VBA
Data-driven summary of VBA’s benefit programs, outlining how veterans use them and their
impact on veterans and their families
http://www.vba.va.gov/REPORTS/abr/2006_abr.pdf
Work Incentives Planning and Assistance National Training Center Curriculum: Module 3
Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits, Other Federal Benefits, and Associated Work
Incentives 2008
Work Incentives Planning and Assistance National Training Center
Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
A regularly updated overview of special cash benefits, medical services and other programs
available to Veterans with disabilities administered by the US Department of Veterans Affairs
(VA) through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and the Veterans Benefits
Administration (VBA).
Note: How Employment Affects VA Disability Benefits, see pages 244-9.
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Spouse’s Planning Guide
2009
Department of Veterans Affairs Visual Impairment Services Team (VIST)
Benefits fact-finding guide for spouses of veterans
The Independent Budget for the Department of Veterans Affairs
FY 2009
Annual publication recommending resources and funding priorities to benefit Veterans,
produced jointly by AMVETS, the Disabled American Veterans, the Paralyzed Veterans of
America, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars
http://es3.pva.org/independentbudget/index.htm
Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Pension
Summary of VA Benefits
April 2008
Two-page pamphlet from the US Department of Veterans Affairs website
http://www.vba.va.gov/VBA/benefits/factsheets/general/21-00-1.pdf
VA Compensation and Pension Payment Rates
How to Read Pension Benefits Rate Tables
Instructions on how to calculate benefit rates depending on veteran status, from the US
Department of Veterans Affairs website
http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Rates/pen01b.htm
Protected Pensions Rate Tables
Effective 12/1/07
US Department of Veterans Affairs
http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Rates/pen03.htm
Veteran Pension Benefits – Veterans Pension Program
December 2008
FAQs explaining eligibility, benefits, and application processes from the US Department of
Veterans Affairs website
http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/pension/vetpen.htm
Social Security Administration
Social Security Online
Social Security is promoting a multiyear initiative to encourage its customers to use online
services to execute many Social Security transactions.
http://www.ssa.gov/
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Annual Statistical Summary 2006
US Social Security Administration, Office of Policy Status
http://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/statcomps/supplement/2006/9f.html
Social Security Disability Insurance, SSDI
May 2006
Veterans Disability Benefits Commission PowerPoint
Military personnel pay FICA taxes from their start of service into Social Security Trust Funds.
This is a PowerPoint overview on file with the project with complete recent demographics of
veterans who also receive SSDI (and Medicare via SSDI).
Education and Training
VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment: Better Incentives, Workforce Planning,
and Performance Reporting Could Improve Program
Government Accountability Office, January, 2009
According to the GAO, the VA’s VR&E program could be improved to better serve the needs of
veterans with disabilities.
http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d0934.pdf
Employment
VetJobs.com
The leading online job board connecting employers and recruiters to veterans and their families
http://www.vetjobs.com
VetJobs e-Newsletter
A monthly electronic publication from the by-Veterans-for-Veterans job site, VetJobs.com,
containing tips and techniques for transitioning service people and Veterans who seek to enter
the workforce
http://vetjobs.com/media/category/eagle-publications/veteran-eagle/
Military Connection
Online job directory for ex-military, Veterans, military spouses and family, as well as on duty to
civilian employment transitions
http://www.militaryconnection.com
Military.com
The nation’s largest online military and veteran membership organization, connecting service
members, military families and Veterans to government benefits, career and education
opportunities, scholarships, discounts, and social networks
http://www.military.com
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Homeless Veteran Employment Assistance Guide for Service Providers
2008
Department of Labor and the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans
A compilation of resources for government agencies, community-based organizations, social
workers, case managers and others who are helping homeless veterans prepare for and obtain
employment
http://www.dol.gov/vets/programs/hvrp/EmploymentAssistanceGuide.pdf
Veterans’ Benefits: The Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program
August 28, 2008
Congressional Research Service report prepared for committees and members of Congress.
Detailed overview of the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program’s services to assist
Veterans with service-connected disabilities to train for and gain appropriate employment or to
live independently
“Disabled Vets Face Several Challenges”
September 6, 2008
Chris Vaughn, Ft. Worth Star-Telegram
News article highlighting the real-world experience of Veterans with disabilities as they look for
work; addresses the disincentive of how earned income impacts disability benefit eligibility
Disincentives to Employment and Self-Sufficiency in the Veterans Disability Benefit
Programs: Recommendations for Reform
2008
Lucy Miller, John Kregel
Department of Special Education and Disability Policy
Virginia Commonwealth University
An analysis of how work income rules discourage veterans from seeking employment, with
recommendations on how to change disability benefit policies and practices to promote veterans’
economic self-sufficiency
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Employment for Veterans with Disabilities
Report of Findings
Honoring All Who Served
REPORT TO THE GOVERNOR AND CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE
Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities
September 26, 2007
Findings on barriers to employment of people with disabilities with key insights into the need for
early intervention, improved coordination between federal, state, local agencies, and increased
mental health and alcohol and drug treatment resources
http://www.edd.ca.gov/Jobs_and_Training/pubs/gcepd-evdreport2008.pdf
“Deployed Soldiers Get Course in Financial Readiness”
December 11, 2008
American Forces Press Service Release
Instability in personal finances is identified as a readiness issue
http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=52271
Housing
Independent Living and Family Support
Family Support
A joint effort by the National Military Family Association, the Partnership for a Drug Free
America, and the National Association of School Nurses. Among other tools, the site offers a
guide for military parents on how to talk to their children during transitions such as a move or a
deployment of a parent.
http://www.TimeToTalk.org/military
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“Veterans with Hearing Loss Welcomed at RIT/NTID”
January 26, 2009
Press Release from Rochester Institute of Technology’s National Technical Institute for the Deaf
In a sign of the strengthening relationship between the disability community and the veterans’
community, NTID is reaching out to veterans with hearing loss
National Guard
The National Guard, the oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States The
National Guard continues its historic dual mission, providing to the states units trained and
equipped to protect life and property, while providing to the nation units trained, equipped and
ready to defend the United States and its interests, all over the globe.
http://www.ng.mil/default.aspx
The National Guard NGB J1 Website
NGB J1 which is the principal personnel advisor to CNGB, which is responsible for providing
the policies, resources and training to ensure consistent human resources programs that shape
and enhance NGB and Joint Force Headquarters strategic initiatives, personnel readiness,
operational capabilities, and the sustainability of the National Guard community.
http://www.jointservicessupport.org/Default.aspx
National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) Reserve / Guard
Resource
(NASFAA) promotes the professional preparation, effectiveness, support, and diversity of
persons and organizations involved in the administration of student financial aid, and facilitates
communication throughout its community. NASFAA encourages and promotes programs that
remove financial barriers to ensure student access to postsecondary education.
http://www.nasfaa.org/linklists/reservistGuidance.asp
Native American Veterans
Native veteran raises profile of disability lawsuit
By Rob Capriccioso, Story Published: Nov 22, 2008
Story Updated: Nov 24, 2008
WASHINGTON – Bobby O’Daniel, a member of the Navajo Nation, recently spoke at a press
conference highlighting a lawsuit that could impact the lives of American veterans by providing
strengthened avenues for disability benefits.
http://www.indiancountrytoday.com/
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Related Directories
National Resource Directory
Web-based directory of local, state and federal agencies and organizations providing links to
medical and non-medical services and resources for veterans, their families, their caregivers and
their survivors.
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.org
State Veterans Benefits Directory
Links to Veterans benefits information by state and territory from Military.com
http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory
US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The VA provides patient care and federal benefits to veterans and their dependents.
http://www.va.gov
State Veterans’ Affairs Offices
Directory listing of Veterans affairs offices by state and territory from the VA
http://www.va.gov/statedva.htm
The Warrior Gateway Project
Improves access by the military community to services and by the service providers to feedback
from the people they serve. The Warrior Gateway Project will organize thousands of programs
and services under one Web site www.warriorgateway.org, providing the military community
with a one-stop, searchable resource for locating and reviewing private and not-for-profit
programs.
www.warriorgateway.org
Selected State Resources
National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA)
The online presence of NASDVA, an organization of top Veterans affairs officials in each state
and territory that works in partnership with Congress, the federal Department of Veterans
Affairs, veteran services organizations and the Department of Defense
http://www.nasdva.net
Network of Care for Veterans: CA and MD Residents
Information and referral services to local and regional benefits and services
www.networkofcare.org
California Department of Veterans Affairs
http://www.cdva.ca.gov
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Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs
http://www.in.gov/dva
The New York State Division of Veterans’ Affairs
http://www.veterans.state.ny.us
The Texas Veterans Commission
http://www.tvc.state.tx.us
Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs
http://www.dva.state.wi.us
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