For those who may not be a veteran, understanding the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) can seem unfamiliar and strange. The VBA is an umbrella administration that falls under the Department of Veterans Affairs. They distribute non-medical benefits to veterans and their families. Their website explains that they are “undergoing a major transformation that is people-centric, results-oriented, and a forward-looking integration of solutions.”
In this article, we will briefly explain some of the VBA’s major program offices and how they are managed. That way, you will have a better idea of how the VA functions if you are pursuing disability benefits for them and the SSA, too.
The Offices and their Departments
To give you a brief overview, the VA has a list of departments that make up the VBA. Here are some so you are aware (this was referenced from VBA’s website):
- Office of Disability Assistance: this includes Compensation services and Veterans Pension to help with those who have disease or injury that prevents them from managing their benefits.
- Office of Economic Opportunity: enables educational and mentoring programs and assistance with employment and the “VA Guaranteed Home Loan Program.”
- Office of Field Operations: these are broken up into four area offices, regional offices, records and an appeals management center.
- VBA-DoD Program Office: ensures transitioning members (including Servicemembers and veterans) “have access to all the benefits and services they have earned.”
- Office of Strategic Planning: facilitates the paperless claims, serves veterans information and helps reinforce data systems are accounted for and implemented with proper communication.
Online Benefits
There are a slew of resources and videos available on the VBA website. One of the videos includes a two-part instructional video on “How to Add a Dependent Through benefits.” In case you’re unaware, benefits is an online portal that allows you to access your VA and DoD benefits at any time. Other useful resources include benefit brochures, fact sheets and infographics on a variety of topics, including one titled “benefits: Your VA & DoD Benefits. Online.” This brochure breaks down self-service features for pension claims and other VA letters you may need access to (whether for yourself or on behalf of a loved one). Another example is a poster that explains how to file a fully developed claim—all useful things to take advantage of on their website. Want to check it out for yourself?
Key Takeaway
Understanding the Veterans Benefits Administration doesn’t happen overnight: it’s a process with a learning curve, especially if you aren’t well-versed in internet lingo and navigation. If you’re confused, or don’t understand how to access your Benefits portal, there are people available to help you! Simply click the “Contact Us” page on the VBA website for toll free numbers.
Also keep in mind if you have a disability from the military, are currently still in active duty or are receiving VA compensation benefits, you may be eligible for disability benefits from the SSA. Whether you are a veteran or not, this is a worthwhile claim to explore to see what you or a loved one may be eligible to receive.
While we can’t take veterans cases concerning strictly VA matters, we at Disability Experts of Florida are more than happy to handle your disability claim with the SSA. Contact one of our trained disability advocates today for more information!