Commonly Overlooked Veterans' Benefits

These are the most commonly overlooked veterans' benefits that can provide valuable support

to veterans and their families.

Veterans often know about the well-publicized benefits offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), such as healthcare, the GI Bill, and home loans. However, there are several overlooked veterans' benefits that go unnoticed, leaving many veterans missing out on valuable support they have rightfully earned. Below are some of the most overlooked veterans' benefits, detailing what they are and how they can make a significant difference in the lives of veterans and their families.

1. Disability Compensation for Secondary Conditions

While most veterans are aware of the VA's disability compensation for service-connected injuries, many don't realize that secondary conditions—conditions that develop as a result of an existing disability—are also covered. An example would be a veteran with a service-connected hand injury who later develops arthritis may be eligible for additional compensation. This benefit is frequently overlooked because veterans might not connect their secondary health issues to their initial service-related condition.

2. VA Caregiver Support Program

The VA Caregiver Support Program provides a range of services, including training, peer support, and financial assistance, for family caregivers of veterans. Caregivers often play a critical role in the recovery and well-being of veterans, yet this benefit is underutilized. Veterans with severe injuries or illnesses may qualify for their caregivers to receive a monthly stipend, access to health insurance, and respite care. This is a particularly valuable benefit for families who provide daily support to veterans.

3. Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)

For veterans with service-connected disabilities who own homes, Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI) is another overlooked veterans' benefit. This program provides mortgage protection in the event of the veteran’s passing, ensuring that the surviving family is not burdened with mortgage debt. The VMLI benefit can be applied to mortgages, deeds of trust, or other liens on the veteran’s home, giving peace of mind to families worried about future financial security.

4. Free or Discounted Burial Benefits

Many veterans and their families are unaware of the free or discounted burial benefits available to them. Veterans are eligible for burial in national cemeteries, including a gravesite, perpetual care, a headstone or marker, and an American flag at no cost. Spouses and dependent children are also eligible for burial benefits, including space in a national cemetery. This overlooked veterans' benefit can save families significant costs and ensure that veterans are honored for their service.

5. VA Dental Care

VA dental care is often one of the most misunderstood and overlooked veterans' benefits. While not all veterans qualify, those with a service-connected dental disability, a total disability rating, or those who were prisoners of war (POW) are eligible for comprehensive dental care. Additionally, veterans who are enrolled in VA healthcare but don’t qualify for free dental services may be able to access care at a reduced cost through the VA’s Dental Insurance Program (VADIP).

Veterans have earned a wide range of benefits through their service, yet many remain unaware of the full scope of resources available to them. These overlooked veterans' benefits can impact the lives of veterans and their families. By taking the time to explore lesser-known VA benefits, veterans can ensure they are accessing the support they deserve.

If you or a loved one is a veteran, it's worth researching these hidden benefits and considering the help of a qualified VA-accredited attorney to ensure that all of the benefits you or your loved one deserves are received.

Attorneys Barbara McGinnis, CELA, and Chris Johnson have received accreditation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to prepare, present, and prosecute claims for veterans before the VA.