VA FAQs

Do You Qualify for a VA Pension?
Veterans and their widows or other dependents might be eligible for the Department of Veterans Affairs pension if they meet certain requirements.

These requirements include the following:

• Veterans must have served during a time of war, even if not in combat, and they must be either permanently disabled or 65 or older.
• In addition, their incomes must fall under a certain level (currently $10,579 if you are a veteran with no dependents. Other limits vary according to your family income.) Widows of veterans can also apply, although their incomes must be even lower (currently $7,094 if you are a surviving spouse with no dependents.)

If you are a veteran and think you may qualify for the benefit, click here to go to the VA's Web site.

If you are a widow of a veteran, click here. The VA also has a toll-free number for more information: 1-800-827-1000.

You can also contact your state Department of The American Legion. To find your Department’s contact person, click here.

How do I know if I was exposed to Agent Orange or other dangerous chemicals?

In military operations, many chemical agents are likely to be used, either as a means of aggression or defense.

In addition, chemical exposure guidelines tend to change over time, as more is learned about each chemical and its interaction with others. If you think you were or have been exposed to a dangerous chemical during military service, there are several places you can turn to for help.

Your first (and probably most complete) resource is the Department of Veterans Affairs. You can search the VA web site for the latest research, or find contacts at regional centers who can give you specific help.

Don’t overlook help from military organizations, either, such as your American Legion Post or Department. Consider also — if you were exposed, it’s likely your entire unit was. Talking to other veterans from your military service may prove very helpful.

Find Out More

Department of Veterans Affairs
For the latest bulletins and updates, plus regional contact information.

www.pubmed.gov
Search for articles on specific chemicals, as well as current and upcoming clinical trials for treatment.

www.military.com
Use its “buddy finder” to locate military friends or acquaintances.

You can also contact your state Department of The American Legion. To find your Department’s contact person, click here.

Can I get help from the VA for a non-service related injury or illness?

Maybe. The Veterans Administration has a tiered system of health care. For treatment, you must fit one of eight priority enrollment groups.

If your injury or illness is not connected to your military service, you may qualify if you meet the VA’s financial means test.

The VA has a short quiz to help you determine your eligibility for health care benefits.

Find Out More

VA Health Eligibility Quiz
VA Financial Means Test thresholds

The VA also has a toll-free number for more information: 1-800-827-1000.

You can also contact your state Department of The American Legion. To find your Department’s contact person, click here.

Am I eligible for burial in Arlington National Cemetery?

Yes. Arlington National Cemetery has space for every honorably discharged veteran and their spouse.

Although Arlington is a national cemetery, it is maintained by the Department of the Army. For the most recent information on internment at Arlington contact the Department of the Army.

As a veteran, you’re eligible for burial in any state or national cemetery without any cost to your family. However, plots in certain cemeteries may be on a space available basis.

Burial benefits include:

• Opening and closing of the grave
• Perpetual care
• Government headstone or marker
• Burial flag
• Presidential Memorial Certificate

Burial benefits are also available to your spouse and dependents. They can be buried beside you, with perpetual care privileges, at no cost to your family. Their name and date of birth and death would be inscribed on your headstone or marker.

Find Out More

For complete details on burial and memorial benefits, visit the Veterans Administration website or phone 1-800-827-1000.

You can also contact your state Department of The American Legion. To find your Department’s contact person, click here.

For information on burial at sea, including a request form, click below. (You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader. Get it here)

Department of Navy Burial at Sea

The VA couldn’t answer all my questions. Now what can I do?

The Department of Veterans Affairs offers an ombudsman’s office (customer service) that you can contact directly.

If you feel you didn’t receive good help, or weren’t satisfied with the answers provided by the VA at your local level, try the ombudsman’s office.

Your next option for resolution is your U.S. Senator. Often he or she can be extremely effective in resolving an issue with a federal agency for a constituent.

Your Department of The American Legion is also a strong advocate for you. Department Service Officers can advise and guide you in what you need to do to help resolve your situation.

Find Out More

Department of Veterans Affairs
Ombudsman division

Your United States Senator
If you need help resolving a specific problem or dealing with a federal agency.

US Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs
Oversight committee you can contact about a concern affecting all veterans nationwide.
 
Your Department of The American Legion.
To find your Department’s contact person, click here.

Where can I learn about benefit programs in my state?

In addition to federal benefits, many states also offer benefits to their veterans.

These are often additional education benefits, but can even include exemption from certain taxes or fees, home loans, and more. Each state manages its own benefit program. You will need to contact your state’s benefit department directly.

As a Legionnaire, your state Department of The American Legion will have many benefit as well as contact suggestions. You may also find valuable benefit information through your regional Veterans Administration office.

Find Out More

You can use the following links to find out more information, including contacts for your state.

www.military.com
State Benefits Veterans Directory

You can also contact your state Department of The American Legion. Ask for the name of your Veterans Service Officer who can help you with benefits. To find your contact information, click here.

Veterans Administration