Am I Missing Benefits?

A service-connected disability rating can exempt you from the VA home loan funding fee — one of the biggest costs in a VA purchase loan. Many veterans pay it without ever knowing they didn't have to.

A program of its own, separate from the GI Bill — job training, further education, resume skills, on-the-job training, and support for starting a business.

At 30% or higher, your monthly payment goes up when you have a spouse, children, or dependent parents. The VA doesn't add them automatically — you have to tell the VA about them.

An extra monthly payment above the 100% rate for severe situations — like the loss of use of a limb, blindness, or needing help with everyday activities. Many veterans have never heard of it.

Veterans rated permanently and totally disabled may qualify for full VA dental care — coverage many veterans assume they'll never get.

If you're rated 100% permanent and total, your spouse and children may qualify for CHAMPVA — health coverage that can work alongside or instead of other insurance. Dependent children are generally covered until age 26.

Military retirees may be able to receive retirement pay and disability pay at the same time — through CRDP, or CRSC if your disability came from combat. The offset rules confuse just about everyone, and they matter.

Most states offer property tax breaks for veterans with a disability rating — some of them substantial. Offered through your state, not the VA: contact your state veterans affairs office to ask what your state offers.

Offered by your state — contact your state veterans affairs office to learn what's available where you live.

A service-connected disability rating can open the door to commissary and exchange shopping privileges — tax-advantaged groceries and retail many veterans leave on the table.

The VA caregiver support program can include a stipend, training, and health coverage for family members caring for a veteran — help many families never hear about until someone mentions it.

Rated 100% permanent and total? Your spouse or children may qualify for DEA — education benefits that help pay for their degree or training program. Dependent children are eligible for DEA until age 26.

VALife is VA whole life insurance with guaranteed acceptance — no health exam, no health questions — for eligible veterans who enroll in the right window.