Benefits

Information on VA benefits, Social Security benefits, how to files claims, and how to appeal denials.

A gavel (a small wooden hammer used by judges to bring a courtroom to order) sits on a white surface in front of two stacked legal books.

Silent Partner: The Blended Retirement System and Divorce

SILENT PARTNER is a lawyer-to-lawyer resource for military legal assistance attorneys and civilian lawyers, published by the Military Committee of the American Bar Association’s Family Law Section.

Surviving Parents Benefits (DIC)

Parents whose child died in-service or from a service-related injury or disease, may be entitled as dependents on the veterans compensation award or to Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), which is a monthly cash assistance benefit.  Basic information about the program is provided on this VA&nbsp

Food Supplements (formerly Food Stamps)

What are Food Supplements? 

You and your family may qualify for this benefit, even if you have too much money to qualify for other programs. You are given a card (like a debit card) to use when you buy food. (Some states may still use paper “stamps” or may have a different program name.) Your card is credited with monthly payments. The federal government also calls this SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).

Unemployment Compensation: Special Rules for Servicemembers

What is Unemployment Compensation [UC]?

"Unemployment compensation” [UC] programs provide weekly income to workers who can’t find jobs. UC can help you get by if you are unemployed or only able to find part-time work. Weekly UC payments also include a small amount for dependents. Typically you need to have earned a certain minimum amount during a "base period" in order to qualify.

What are the Major Differences between DoD and VA Disability Benefits?

Here are some important differences between DoD disability retirement benefits and VA disability benefits. Understanding these differences may help you sort out  the benefits puzzle.

Unemployment Compensation for Spouses who Quit Work Because of Military Spouse Transfers

What is Unemployment Compensation?

Each State runs an Unemployment Compensation (UC) program for people who have lost their jobs. Eligible unemployed workers get weekly checks and can qualify for other work-related benefits.