By: VAntage Point Contributor

VA’s www.va.gov/getstarted landing page makes it easier for Veterans and family members to access VA benefits and services information.

The website provides two newly updated booklets on information about VA benefits and services, as well as how to apply for them.

The first booklet is the 2021 Federal Benefits Handbook for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors. The handbook contains a comprehensive listing of VA benefits and services with direct links to contact benefits and services representatives. In fact, an index located on the inside cover lists both phone numbers and websites for easy reference.

Importantly, the handbook provides a legal overview on eligibility requirements to include the definition of a Veteran. Additionally, VA serves many generations of Veterans. There are specific qualification guidelines for distinct periods of service to clarify eligibility during both peacetime and wartime environments.

The handbook aligns with benefits information and services for VA’s three administrations: Veterans Health Administration; Veterans Benefits Administration; and Veterans Cemetery Administration. Also, a section of the handbook discusses non-healthcare services, such as homelessness, survivor assistance, women and minority Veterans, and many other programs.

The handbook is a one-stop resource for Veterans, family members and survivors. Limited printed copies may be available at medical centers or VBA regional offices. The website allows Veterans to access VA benefits and services information. 

Welcome to VA

The second resource booklet, the VA Welcome Kit, complements the handbook with easy-to-understand words and graphics to better navigate VA’s many benefits for Veterans and family members.

This booklet is structured on the idea that no two Veterans are the same, and not all experience major life events and moments in the same order.

Based on where a Veteran is in his or her life, VA serves Veterans in different ways. This resource includes a journey map to help explore how VA supports Veterans both now and in the future.

This resource also reviews VA benefits and services. This includes a useful check list to help Veterans learn and organize important documents needed for application purposes. In addition, Veterans can also learn eligibility periods for certain benefits, such as education or life insurance. The best part is that one can simply crosswalk a search by benefit, how it can help, documents required and VA points of contact.

Want to apply for health care, education, compensation, assistance for care givers, or memorial benefits? These are just a few of the resources in this booklet that can save Veterans time, increase their awareness and understanding of how to apply.

VA is working to take the complexity out of navigating its myriad benefits and services. Visit www.va.gov/getstarted to learn more about the VA benefits Veterans have earned with their service.