Life in the military can be very challenging. Permanent Change of Stations and extended deployment periods can stress your family. If your loved ones depend on your income as military personnel, it can be an added pressure to perform well wherever you’re stationed.
Fortunately, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several financial benefits to veterans. While transitioning to civilian life can be difficult for members of the military, you can avail of financial assistance on several fronts. Here are some of them:
1. Medical Care
By law, the VA is required to provide veterans with needed hospital and outpatient care services that will preserve the health of military members. This includes necessary treatments, procedures, and other health services. All veterans, along with your dependents, can be eligible for most health programs.
The VA also offers specific health programs that provide treatment for blindness rehabilitation, post-traumatic stress, radiation exposure, traumatic brain injury, and HIV/AIDS treatment.
Veterans with a service-related disability can also qualify for monthly Disability Compensation. The final amount depends on the nature of the disability, your dependents, and your employment prospects.
2. Education
For service members who want to further their education after discharge, education benefits can help cover education or training costs. There are several VA education programs that are administered in different ways and have different eligibility requirements. For example, the Post-9/11 GI Bill includes up to 100% tuition and fee coverage, monthly housing allowance, and up to $1,000 a year for books and supplies.
3. Counseling
The VA provides readjustment counseling services for veterans who served in combat theater or provided medical care. Individual, group, and family counseling can help veterans transition to civilian life. This includes treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and assistance with other services such as housing, education, and other non-VA services.
4. Relocation
Military families spend an average of $2,000 in moving expenses for every Permanent Change of Station. Reassignment can take place every few years, and the financial and emotional strain can take a toll on your family. Fortunately, all moving costs, lost property, renter’s insurance, and auto insurance are tax-deductible.
For example, the Move-In Housing Allowance will cover one-time rent-related expenses, the initial cost of making a home habitable, and modifying your new residence for security protection.
5. VA Home Loan
If you want to buy or build your home, or if you’re going to refinance your home mortgage, VA home loans have as little as $0 down payment, very low interest rates, no private mortgage insurance, and financing with no mandated cap.
There are many types of VA home loans, so you can choose one that will suit your homeownership needs. For example, through the VA’s Interest Rate Reduction Program, you can refinance your existing mortgage without all the typical paperwork needed by traditional lenders. If you want to avail of lower interest rates, all you have to do is apply through your lender and send them your certificate of eligibility. There are no other requirements and out-of-pocket costs.
Conclusion
Military members are eligible for many types of benefits and assistance from the VA. These benefits are meant to help veterans and their families live long, comfortable, and happy lives. If you need any type of support, you can contact your local VA chapter to lend a helping hand.
Desert Heroes Team provides military families with all the resources veterans’ families need to purchase new homes. If you’re looking for real estate near Luke Air Force Base, you can depend on us to help you overcome the complexities of buying a home. Contact us today, and we can help you find a home that will fit all your needs!