Surprising Veteran Assistance Benefits You Didn’t Know About
When people think of veteran benefits, they often imagine education grants or health care. But did you know many other hidden benefits are available to our nation's heroes? Many veterans aren't aware of these lesser-known advantages, and tapping into them can make a significant difference in their lives.
Today, we will share some surprising benefits that veterans might not be aware of. From long-term care to life insurance, these benefits support veterans and their families in unexpected ways.
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Care Benefits for Extended Time
Thinking about the future is crucial for veterans, especially regarding long-term care. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several programs to assist veterans who need extended care due to age or disability. These services include nursing home care, assisted living, and home-based care options.
Veterans who qualify for these benefits can access services that meet their daily activities or medical care needs. Understanding and utilizing these long-term care benefits can significantly reduce the stress and financial burden on veterans and their families.
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Caregiver Support
Caring for a veteran can be both rewarding and challenging. Thankfully, the VA recognizes caregivers' vital role and offers various support programs. These initiatives provide resources, training, and even financial assistance to those caring for veterans.
One such option is the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC), which offers financial aid, counseling, and respite care to veterans' caregivers. Peer support groups are also available for caregivers, allowing them to connect with others facing similar challenges.
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Free Tax Preparation Services
Tax season can be a stressful time for anyone, but veterans have access to free tax preparation services that can ease the burden. Several dedicated programs assist veterans with taxes, ensuring they get the most out of their returns.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to people who generally make $67,000 or less and veterans (regardless of their income). IRS-certified volunteers provide these services and can assist with basic tax return preparation and ensure veterans receive the credits and deductions they're entitled to.
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Life Insurance
Life insurance might not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering veteran benefits, but it's important for many. The VA offers several life insurance programs tailored to meet the unique needs of veterans and their families.
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is a low-cost group life insurance program for active-duty members. After leaving the military, veterans can convert their SGLI to Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI), ensuring they maintain coverage without a medical exam.
Veterans have dedicated their lives to serving their country, and it's only fitting that they receive the support and benefits they deserve. By understanding these lesser-known benefits, veterans can make the most of the available assistance. If you're a veteran or know someone who is, take the time to explore these benefits and make the most of the support available.