VA Benefits for Spouses of Disabled Veterans in Georgia
If you are the spouse of a disabled veteran, you may be entitled to additional benefits from the Veterans Administration. For example, veterans are entitled to certain health insurance, federal or state job hiring preferences, commissary privileges, and education grants. In addition, there are a host of benefits available to their families, and knowing which ones you are eligible for is the first step in claiming them.
When you seek a VA disability attorney from Georgia, you are tapping into the vast knowledge of the VA’s resources to find out exactly how you can benefit from your spouse’s service. Unfortunately, many spouses go years before discovering exactly what they can access, so it pays to have a chat with a specialized law firm and let them explain what you can enjoy.
Now, let’s see some of these benefits.
Education Benefits
As the spouse of a disabled veteran, you are eligible for several education benefits as part of the GI Bill. For example, you may be entitled to funds to complete a bachelor, master, or associate of arts degree, enroll in vocational training or certification or pay for certain professional licenses. You can also get funds for national testing for college admissions, apprentice training, and flight training.
VA Pensions
Spouses of disabled veterans are entitled to a VA Pension if they are considered low-income and older than 65. This pension amount is adjusted based on the number of household dependents and changes each year. In addition, if your veteran spouse was awarded the Medal of Honor, there are additional funds available, and the pension is granted for life.
Federal Hiring Preference
The federal hiring preference that veterans enjoy is also extended to their spouses and dependents. Therefore, if you seek a career in federal services, you can include this information during the application process to take advantage of this benefit. In addition, the VA also offers education and career counseling to assist you in your professional goals.
Commissary and MWR (Morale, Welfare, Recreation) Privileges
As the spouse of a disabled veteran, you are eligible to shop at commissary stores around the country. In addition, you are also entitled to enjoy privileges at MWR, enjoying activities like bowling, the arts, sports, pools, and youth centers.
TRICARE
Spouses of disabled veterans may qualify for health care through the CHAMPVA program, the military’s TRICARE program, or specialty treatment at one of the VA’s hospitals around the country. In addition, there are a host of health care incentives available to both the veteran and their spouse, so it pays to research which ones you can access.
Burial and Interment
Veterans are entitled to cremation services or burial at one of the nation’s national cemeteries. They are also entitled to burial at sea. Spouses or dependents may also be entitled to this same honor. However, there are additional steps that families must take to arrange for a burial of a military spouse, so it pays to plan for this arrangement if you are a spouse of a disabled veteran.
Military ID Cards
Spouses of disabled veterans may be eligible for their own military ID cards that entitle them to access commissary stores, MWR facilities, Tricare, and discounts at restaurants and stores. These military ID cards are available to veterans, their spouses, and dependents.
Free Driver’s License
Georgian honorably discharged veterans could get a free driver’s license. If the veteran qualifies for this benefit, their spouse could also be eligible for a free honorary driver’s license as long as the veteran’s disabilities preclude them from operating a motor vehicle. In addition, the unremarried surviving spouse of a deceased veteran eligible for a free driver’s license could also receive one if they meet the residence and qualifying terms.
Get Legal Representation to Understand Your Rights and Benefits
This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other programs, services, and funds available to military veterans, their spouses, caregivers, and families. The best way to find out which you can enjoy is to talk to a VA attorney. They can help get correct disability ratings, fight for you if the military has wronged you, appeal benefits denials, and guide you and your family through the benefits process.
If you are a spouse of a disabled veteran, you likely have a full engagement into post-service life. One of the major privileges of supporting your disabled veteran is sharing the benefits they have earned through their service. It can be a challenge to know which benefits you are eligible for, so talking to a lawyer might offer you the right perspective. Remember that most VA attorneys usually offer free initial consultations so you can understand your options without stressing about fees. Find a law firm in Georgia to become a valuable resource to veterans, spouses, and their dependents.