How do you navigate va health care benefits?

TIPS ON OBTAINING VA HEALTH CARE BENEFITS • FIRST, UNDERSTAND WHAT THE VA CAN PROVIDE YOU BY GETTING ADVICE FROM THOSE WHO BEST KNOW ITS SYSTEM. That means reaching out to an accredited

Veterans Service Representative. Reach out to your state VA office or veterans and military service organization for help. VA benefits are based on your individual situation, and eligibility

can change over time. • HAVE A COPY OF YOUR MILITARY SERVICE RECORD, KNOWN AS A DD-214. The easiest way to receive a copy is to register for an eBenefits account. If you don't want to

register online, visit your local VA facility, your state or county veterans office, or a veterans service organization such as the American Legion, VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), or DAV

(Disabled American Veterans). • ONCE YOU APPLY, THE VA CAN PROVIDE AN ELIGIBILITY DETERMINATION BASED ON THEIR CRITERIA. Since the criteria change, the VA needs your information to identify

which services you qualify for that address your specific needs. • IN MOST CASES ONLY THE VETERAN RECEIVES HEALTH CARE BENEFITS. Keep this in mind if you need care for your entire family or

spouse. UPDATE: Visit AARP.org/PactAct for an overview of the new benefits and health services offered by the VA to more than 5 million Vietnam, Gulf War and post-9/11 veterans. You can also

find information on how to get started with filing a claim.