January 1 represents a clean slate. A fresh start. It's the time of year when many of us make New Year's resolutions. If you or a loved one might benefit from VA benefits, here's a resolution to add to your list: JUST DO IT. Now is the time to apply for VA benefits.
This phrase always reminds me of the old Nike ad campaign. When that slogan came out, I was in high school, and I thought it was the dumbest thing ever. As a 16-year-old, I didn't understand what "just do it" meant, but I do now.
As I've gotten older, I've realized how often we don't just do it. We kick the can down the road. If you make just one New Year's resolution related VA benefits this year, let it be this: start the ball rolling to see what you qualify for. Get your eBenefits website profile set up at va.org. If you're a veteran, you can set up an account there, and you can see everything that might apply to you or your loved one. Reach out to a VSO, a VA-accredited attorney, or the Center for Elder Veterans Rights for additional help.
Why do people NOT just do it? Well, the horror stories are one reason. People hear how hard it is to apply for VA benefits, and they don't want to take it on. I understand this concern. Let me offer some encouragement. If there is any possibility that you might be eligible for VA benefits that might make life better for yourself or someone you love, you owe it to yourself to find out for sure. These benefits aren't just a frill. They can make a real difference in quality of life. VA benefits can allow you to afford better long-term care. VA benefits can compensate you for injuries you sustained in-service—injuries that might be affecting your life to this day. VA benefits can help you pay for healthcare costs, prescription drug costs, and many other costs.
If you haven't looked into whether you might qualify, make 2025 the year you do. If you or your loved one was a veteran and you haven't investigated which VA benefits might be available to you, here's what I want you to do:
1. Get off the couch.
2. Go to your computer, smartphone, or other device.
3. Go to VA.org and set up your eBenefits account.
4. See which benefits might apply to you.
5. If you're not sure, call your local VSO, a VA-accredited organization, or Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law and Estate Planning for help. Tell them about your situation, then follow their advice.
There are so many benefits available from the VA that it can be hard to tell which ones might apply to you. That's why it's so important to get help. Talk to someone who knows what they're doing. Once you've done that, things get easier. It's that first hump that stops people from going forward, and that is frustrating because so many of those people need them.
Make 2025 the year that you investigate your eligibility for VA benefits. Just do it! You'll be glad you did.
Need Help? Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law and Estate Planning is here for you. Call or email us here.
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