Military Program Benefits for the Public
Military benefits were created to assist current military members, reserve members, veterans and family members of active duty/veterans. While the military offers no benefits to the general public, there are many benefits to assist those that do qualify for the services. From housing assistance to counseling services the military and Department of Veteran's Affairs (VA) provide comprehensive services to members of the military. All 50 states have a VA clinic or office where information about the programs can be obtained.
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Housing Benefits
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The Department of Veteran's Affairs (VA) provides case management services, temporary and permanent housing to veterans and their families. Many federal and state-run housing authority programs have veteran-specific apartments in low-income housing apartment complexes, and also have a certain number of vouchers for Section 8 houses. Some communities around the United States have shelters with beds designated for former military personnel as well.
Education Benefits
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The GI bill was created in 1944 to allow veterans to attend college using military education benefits. This bill allows veterans, veteran families, reserve and guard members to earn degrees, certificates or attend trade school using a monthly stipend. This stipend may cover all the room and board and tuition costs of a college. This stipend is not taxable, and some types of GI bills allow for independent study or foreign exchange programs.
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Health Benefits
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The VA is required by law to provide eligible inpatient and outpatient medical care to military veterans. These health care services provide medical treatment, medical supplies and medical services that promote the overall health of the veterans. There are specific services for alcohol/drug dependency, blind veterans, Gulf War syndrome, radiation exposure and Agent Orange services. Some veteran families are entitled to health care services (at non-VA hospitals) paid for by the Department of Veteran's Affairs.
Home Loans
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The VA has joined banks and other lending institutions to form partnerships to provide veterans with home loans, often at a lower interest rate than that at a traditional lending institution. VA loans do not require down payments, have low closing costs and can be used to purchase a new home or to re-finance a home. While some credit restrictions apply, this type of loan requires that a veteran has a reliable income and means to pay a mortgage.
Counseling Benefits
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All veterans are entitled to follow up counseling at their state's veteran's center. This counseling can be any mental health need, from depression to PTSD. Veterans who have experienced combat trauma may also receive services at their local VA hospital or clinic. Marital and family counseling may be available to some veterans and their families, as well as inpatient mental health services for those who need it.
Burial, Death and Survivor Benefits
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All veterans that have served in the military are entitled to a small death benefit. Survivor Benefit pensions are available to spouses and/or children if their loved one was killed in active duty or training. Other family members of veterans who have been injured in the service, but died at a later time in a VA hospital or nursing home, may also receive a small death benefit or burial assistance.
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- Photo Credit military image by Alexey Klementiev from Fotolia.com
