Guides
Plain-language guides on VA claims, discharge paperwork, benefits, and where free help lives, with a link to the organization behind each one. These are for general information and are not legal or benefits advice.
Emergency financial help
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Massachusetts Local Property Tax Exemptions for Veterans (Chapter 59, Clause 22)
Massachusetts law reduces the property tax on the home of a qualifying veteran. The size of the reduction rises with the level of service-connected disability, and veterans who are paraplegic or have service-connected blindness, and certain surviving spouses, can receive a full exemption.
From Your local board of assessors, under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 59, Section 5. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Survivor benefits: DIC and Survivors Pension for spouses and dependents
This guide explains the two main monthly payments the VA pays to a veteran's survivors: Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), a tax-free payment for surviving spouses, children, or parents when the veteran died in service or from a service-connected illness or injury, and the Survivors Pension, a needs-based payment for the surviving spouse or unmarried dependent child of a wartime veteran. You do not have to file alone or pay anyone: an accredited attorney, claims agent, or Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative can help you file the claim, and a VSO representative's help is always free. You apply using VA Form 21P-534EZ.
From U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs
Oregon's state agency for veterans, serving about 266,000 veterans statewide through benefits counseling, home loans, veterans' care homes, and grant programs.
From Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA). Verified 2026-07-05.
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Housing and homelessness
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Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid Network (IL-AFLAN)
A statewide free legal aid hotline and network for current and former military members and their families with low to moderate incomes. Attorneys help with discharge upgrades, VA benefits appeals, and civil legal problems like family, housing, and consumer issues.
From Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs (Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid Network). Verified 2026-07-06.
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How to start a VA-backed home loan
This guide explains the VA-backed home loan, a loan from a private bank or lender that the VA partly guarantees so you get better terms. Nearly 90 percent of VA-backed loans are made with no down payment. The first step is to get a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which shows the lender you qualify. You can request the COE online, through your lender using a system called Web LGY, or by mail.
From U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs
Oregon's state agency for veterans, serving about 266,000 veterans statewide through benefits counseling, home loans, veterans' care homes, and grant programs.
From Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA). Verified 2026-07-05.
Read it on their site
Education and training
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How to use your GI Bill and VA education benefits
This VA guide explains the Post-9/11 GI Bill and other VA education benefits, which can help pay for college tuition, housing, and books. You generally qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill if you served at least 90 days on active duty after September 10, 2001, or received a Purple Heart. A trained Veterans Service Organization representative can help you apply for free, and you can also apply online yourself using VA Form 22-1990.
From U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Washington State Tuition Waiver for Veterans, National Guard Members, and Dependents
Washington law lets state colleges and universities waive all or part of tuition and fees for eligible veterans and National Guard members. Public colleges must waive full undergraduate tuition and fees, up to 200 quarter credits, for eligible dependents of veterans who are 100 percent disabled or who died as a result of their military service, with a 500 dollar annual book stipend when the legislature funds it.
From Washington public colleges and universities (information from the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs). Verified 2026-07-05.
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WorkForce West Virginia Veterans Employment Services
The state's employment and workforce agency gives qualifying veterans and eligible spouses priority of service, with early access to job listings, career counseling, resume and interview help, job placement, and training and financial aid information.
From WorkForce West Virginia. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Jobs and employment
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Alaska Veteran Employment Preference
Alaska law gives qualified veterans a hiring preference for certain state jobs open to all Alaska residents. Veterans with a 10-point preference must be offered an interview for those open competitive vacancies, and veterans with a 5-point preference receive added consideration.
From Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs (Alaska Department of Military and Veterans Affairs). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Arizona State Veterans' Hiring Preference
Under A.R.S. 38-492 and State Personnel Rules, the State of Arizona gives a hiring preference to qualified and disabled veterans applying for state government jobs. The preference is available to outside applicants who are not already state employees.
From Arizona Department of Administration, Human Resources Division. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Veterans Preference in State Employment
When a qualifying veteran or eligible surviving spouse applies for a State of Colorado government job, preference points are added to their comparative analysis score. Five points for a veteran, ten points for a veteran with a service-connected disability, and five points for a qualifying surviving spouse, up to a total of ten points.
From State of Colorado (Department of Personnel and Administration, State of Colorado Careers). Verified 2026-07-06.
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DC Government Veterans Hiring Preference
Gives eligible veterans preference in the hiring process for DC government jobs, with preference also extended to certain spouses, widows, widowers, and mothers of deceased or disabled veterans.
From DC Department of Human Resources (DCHR). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Delaware Veteran Employment and Bets on Vets
Helps veterans find work with the State of Delaware and points them to job listings, alerts, and career counseling. Veterans who meet a job's requirements get extra preference points added to their ranking score when applying for state jobs.
From Delaware Office of Veterans Services and Delaware Department of Human Resources. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Florida Veterans' Preference in Public Employment
Florida law requires the state and all local governments to give preference in hiring, retention, and promotion to eligible veterans and certain family members. If you believe an employer denied you the preference, you can file a complaint with FDVA.
From Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (enforcement), with all state and local government employers. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Iowa Veterans Preference in Public Employment
Iowa adds preference points to the application scores of honorably discharged veterans applying for state, county, city, and school jobs. Veterans get 5 added points, and veterans with a service-connected disability, a Purple Heart, or who receive VA disability compensation or pension get 10 added points.
From Iowa Department of Administrative Services. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Idaho Veterans' Preference for Public Employment
State law gives eligible veterans and certain family members a more favorable competitive position when applying for jobs with Idaho state, county, city, and other public employers, through added rating points or an interview guarantee.
From State of Idaho (Division of Human Resources and public employers), with information from the Idaho Department of Labor. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Illinois State Employment Veterans Preference and Outreach Program
Qualified veterans get additional preference points added to their passing scores when applying for State of Illinois jobs. The CMS Veterans Outreach Program verifies eligibility, offers free personalized career counseling, and runs employment workshops to help veterans move into state careers.
From Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) Veterans Outreach Program. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Kansas State Employment Veterans' Preference
Gives eligible veterans and certain spouses a hiring edge for State of Kansas government jobs. Qualified applicants are guaranteed an interview for positions they apply to and get higher retention standing if the workforce is reduced.
From Kansas Department of Administration, Office of Personnel Services. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Massachusetts Veterans' Civil Service and Public Employment Preference
Massachusetts gives veterans absolute preference for civil service jobs. A veteran who scores 70 or higher on an open competitive civil service exam moves to the top of the eligibility list, ahead of non-veterans.
From Commonwealth of Massachusetts (state and municipal civil service), described in the Secretary of the Commonwealth's veterans benefits guide. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Maryland Veterans Hiring and Promotion Preference
A state law that allows employers to grant a hiring and promotion preference to eligible veterans and certain spouses. The preference is set out in the Maryland Labor and Employment Article, Section 3-714, effective October 1, 2016.
From Maryland Department of Labor. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Maine Veterans' Preference in State Job Applications
Under Maine law, a veteran who meets the minimum qualifications for a State of Maine job will be offered an interview for that position. A veteran who is not selected can get personalized help from the Bureau of Human Resources to identify other suitable state openings. Maine CareerCenters also have dedicated veteran representatives to help with job search, resumes, and training.
From Maine Bureau of Human Resources. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Michigan Veterans' Preference for State Employment
A hiring preference for qualifying veterans and their spouses in Michigan state jobs, under Civil Service Rule 3-8. It applies to both state hiring and promotions. Michigan also gives veterans who mark their status 24-hour advance notice of job postings before the general public.
From Michigan Civil Service Commission. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Minnesota Veterans Preference Act (Public Hiring)
State law that gives most veterans a hiring and promotion preference for public jobs in Minnesota. On an open competitive government exam, a veteran who passes can choose 10 extra points; a veteran with a compensable service-connected disability can choose 15 extra points; and a disabled veteran rated 50 percent or more can choose 5 extra points on a promotion.
From Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Missouri Veteran Employment Benefits and Job Help
Missouri gives veterans, disabled veterans, and their spouses hiring preference in state government jobs when job-related qualifications are otherwise equal, and honorably discharged veterans get credit on state exams for related military training and experience. The state also connects veterans to free job-help programs, including MO Job Centers, MO Heroes Connect, and the VETS Work program.
From Missouri Veterans Commission and Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Veterans Preference for State Jobs
When a Mississippi state agency reviews applicants for a job, qualifying disabled veterans and veterans are listed at the top of the list of eligible applicants, with disabled veterans listed ahead of other veterans. You must indicate your veteran status on your application to get this preference.
From Mississippi State Personnel Board. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Montana Veterans Public Employment Preference
Gives eligible veterans a hiring preference when they apply for State of Montana government jobs. Claiming the preference is voluntary and the information is kept confidential and used only during hiring.
From Montana Veteran Affairs Division (MVAD). Verified 2026-07-06.
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North Dakota Veterans Preference in Public Employment
State law gives qualified veterans preference over all other applicants in recruitment and selection for government jobs in North Dakota. To hire a non-veteran over a qualified veteran, an agency must show justifiable cause that is specific to that individual and renders the individual unsuitable for the position.
From North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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New Hampshire Veterans' Preference in Public Employment
State law gives qualifying veterans a hiring preference for public employment with the state and with New Hampshire counties, cities, towns, and districts, when the veteran is otherwise equally qualified for the job.
From State of New Hampshire and its counties, cities, and towns, under RSA 283:4. Verified 2026-07-06.
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New Jersey Civil Service Veterans Preference
Puts qualified New Jersey veterans at the top of open competitive civil service job lists, ahead of non-veterans regardless of their test scores. Disabled veterans get even higher priority. You claim the preference by filing a form with the state veterans department.
From New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs (preference applied by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission). Verified 2026-07-06.
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New Mexico State Employment Veterans' Hiring Preference
Gives veterans extra points when applying for New Mexico state government jobs. Veterans and current National Guard members get 5 points added to their final passing score, and veterans with a service-connected disability get an additional 5 points, for 10 total.
From New Mexico State Personnel Office. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Oklahoma Office of Veterans Placement
Gives eligible veterans guaranteed interviews for matched state jobs, plus employment counseling, resume help, and job placement support. Veterans get up to two interviews for qualified positions with the same job title at each applicable agency within a 12-month period.
From Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Oregon Veterans' Preference in Public Employment
Oregon law requires public employers to add preference to a qualifying veteran's application score for civil service jobs: five percentage points for veterans and 10 percentage points for disabled veterans. Qualifying veterans and disabled veterans are also generally entitled to an interview if they meet the minimum qualifications.
From Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI), with ODVA support. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Pennsylvania Veterans' Preference for State Civil Service Jobs
Veterans' preference is state law in Pennsylvania. When a veteran passes a civil service exam for a Commonwealth job, 10 points are added to the final exam score, and appointing authorities must give preference to veterans on the certified eligible list when making an appointment.
From Pennsylvania State Civil Service Commission. Verified 2026-07-06.
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State of Rhode Island Veterans Hiring Preference
Adds preference points to competitive state civil service entrance exam scores for veterans. Veterans who pass the exam receive a 5 point credit, and disabled veterans receive 10 points.
From Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services (Department of Human Services). Verified 2026-07-06.
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South Carolina Veterans Hiring Preference for State Jobs
Since January 1, 2021, state agencies and higher education institutions must interview at least one qualified veteran for every full-time position they post. This helps veterans get in front of hiring managers for state jobs.
From South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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South Dakota Veterans Preference in Public Employment
Eligible veterans who meet the minimum qualifications for a public job in South Dakota are guaranteed an interview, and veterans receive preference in appointment, employment, and promotion. Service-connected disabled veterans receive preference over non-disabled veterans.
From South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Tennessee Veterans Preference for State Jobs (TEAM Act)
Under the Tennessee TEAM Act, eligible veterans who meet the minimum qualifications for a state preferred position are guaranteed an interview, and when two candidates are equally qualified, hiring preference goes to the veteran. If a hiring manager passes over an eligible veteran, they must put their reasons in writing for the veteran to see. Veterans also keep 60 months of service credit in layoff decisions.
From Tennessee Department of Human Resources and Tennessee Department of Veterans Services. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Texas Veterans Employment Services
Free employment help for Texas veterans, delivered through Workforce Solutions offices statewide. Veterans get priority of service, one-on-one help with job searches, resumes, and applications, and tools such as Texas Skills to Work that translate military experience into civilian jobs.
From Texas Workforce Commission. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Utah Veterans Employment Preference (State Jobs)
Adds preference points to a veteran's score when applying for State of Utah government jobs. Veterans and service members get 5 points or 5 percent of the total possible score, whichever is greater; disabled veterans and Purple Heart recipients get 10 points or 10 percent.
From Utah Division of Human Resource Management (DHRM). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Utah Military and Veteran Professional Licensing Benefits
License fee waivers and protections for military members and their spouses in licensed professions. Active duty members can waive license fees, a license that expires during active duty or deployment is extended until 90 days after deployment or discharge, and military spouses with an active out-of-state license can work in Utah without getting a Utah license.
From Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Virginia Veterans Hiring Preference for State Jobs
Virginia law gives veterans a hiring preference for jobs with the Commonwealth. For jobs filled by written exam, a passing veteran's score is increased by five percent, or ten percent for a veteran with a service-connected disability. For jobs without an exam, qualified veterans get preference during the selection process.
From Virginia Department of Human Resource Management (implements the preference under Virginia Code 2.2-2903). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Vermont State Employment Veterans Preference
Eligible veterans get preference points added to their scores when applying for State of Vermont jobs. Veterans can also apply for positions normally open only to current state employees and compete for postings recruited as state promotional only.
From Vermont Department of Human Resources. Verified 2026-07-06.
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State of Wisconsin Employment for Veterans (Non-Competitive Appointment)
Wisconsin lets veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or higher apply for state government jobs without going through the standard competitive hiring process. Their experience is matched to openings across state agencies.
From Wisconsin Department of Administration, Division of Personnel Management, with the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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WorkForce West Virginia Veterans Employment Services
The state's employment and workforce agency gives qualifying veterans and eligible spouses priority of service, with early access to job listings, career counseling, resume and interview help, job placement, and training and financial aid information.
From WorkForce West Virginia. Verified 2026-07-06.
Read it on their site
Health and mental health
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California Veterans Treatment Courts
Special court programs that give justice-involved veterans treatment and supervision instead of the usual path through the criminal system. A veteran works with a judge, mentors, and treatment providers on a plan that addresses the issues behind the charges, such as PTSD or traumatic brain injury.
From Judicial Branch of California. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Delaware Veteran Treatment Court
A statewide court program that steers eligible veterans facing criminal charges away from the usual criminal justice process and into supervised treatment for substance use, PTSD, or other mental health issues. Charges can be deferred and dismissed on successful completion of a treatment plan.
From Delaware Superior Court, with the Delaware Office of Veterans Services and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Florida Veterans Support Line (1-844-MyFLVet)
A free phone line where Florida veterans and their families can reach trained specialists for emotional support and connection to resources. Care coordination is provided by trained veteran peers, and help is available 24 hours a day regardless of discharge status.
From Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, answered by a statewide network of local nonprofit organizations that also run Florida's 2-1-1 system. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Hawaii Veterans Treatment Court
A special court program for veterans facing criminal charges who struggle with reintegration, mental health issues like PTSD, or substance abuse. It pairs treatment, housing help, job training, and a veteran mentor with court supervision instead of the usual path through the criminal system.
From Hawaii State Judiciary. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Illinois Warrior Assistance Program (IWAP)
A confidential 24/7 warm helpline and resource navigation service for Illinois veterans, their families, and caregivers dealing with emotional challenges such as PTSD, mild traumatic brain injury, military sexual trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, and substance abuse. Care coordinators connect callers to counseling, referrals, and benefits help.
From Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs (with Illinois Joining Forces). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Indiana Community Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans and their Families
A statewide suicide prevention initiative run by IDVA in partnership with SAMHSA and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It supports community coalitions and organizations in identifying and helping service members, veterans, family members, and caregivers, and it points people to 24/7 confidential crisis support.
From Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Louisiana Veteran Crisis Line and Mental Health Resources
A free, confidential 24/7 crisis line and a curated list of mental health, peer support, and substance use resources for Louisiana veterans and their families. Reach a caring responder, many of them veterans themselves, at any hour by calling 988 and pressing 1.
From Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Louisiana Veterans Court Programs
Specialized court programs in several Louisiana judicial districts divert eligible veterans facing criminal charges into treatment, supervision, and support instead of the traditional system. Programs pair veterans with treatment for substance use, PTSD, and mental health, plus benefits counseling, job training, and housing help.
From Louisiana district courts, established under Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 13, Chapter 33-B. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Maine Veterans Treatment Court
A special court docket for veterans facing criminal charges tied to a substance use disorder or mental health condition. Instead of a standard sentence, participants get a treatment plan, regular court check-ins, a veteran peer mentor, and a connection to the VA and Maine Vet Centers.
From State of Maine Judicial Branch. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Maine Veterans' Services Suicide Prevention and Case Management
A free program funded through the federal SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grant that provides outreach, mental health screenings, case management, peer support, and connections to resources for veterans and their families. The Bureau also lists crisis resources including the Veterans Crisis Line (dial 988 then press 1).
From Bureau of Maine Veterans' Services. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Michigan MVAA Mental Health Resources for Veterans
A state hub that connects Michigan veterans and families to free, confidential mental health support, including the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (press 1), Michigan's eight Vet Centers for counseling and PTSD and substance use help, and coaching for family and friends. Vet Center services are free and confidential.
From Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Michigan Veterans Treatment Courts
Special courts that help justice-involved veterans resolve underlying issues, such as mental health and substance use, that may have contributed to their arrest. They provide treatment and support services as an alternative to incarceration for some non-violent offenses. Michigan has 25 operational veterans treatment courts.
From State Court Administrative Office, Michigan Supreme Court. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Minnesota Veterans Court (Treatment Courts)
Veterans Court is one of Minnesota's treatment courts. Instead of the usual criminal process, a judge leads a team of prosecutors, defense counsel, probation, treatment providers, and others to move a veteran with a substance use or mental health disorder into treatment and recovery, with regular court check-ins, supervision, and testing.
From Minnesota Judicial Branch. Verified 2026-07-06.
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How to enroll in VA health care
This guide explains how to sign up for VA health care and what it covers, including primary care, mental health care, prescriptions, and specialist visits. You apply with one form, VA Form 10-10EZ, and you can do it four ways: online, by phone, by mail, or in person at a VA medical center. The fastest way to get help is to call the VA toll-free at 877-222-8387, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET, and a person will walk you through it.
From U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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North Dakota Veterans Treatment Court
A court program that connects justice-involved veterans to mental health and substance use treatment, supervision, and veteran mentors as an alternative path through the justice system. It aims to promote recovery, stability, and accountability rather than incarceration.
From North Dakota Court System (Northeast Central Judicial District). Verified 2026-07-06.
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ODVA Health and Wellness Initiative and Veterans Crisis Support
The state veterans agency helps veterans and their families reach mental health and suicide prevention resources across Oklahoma. ODVA is not a clinical provider itself, but it works through the Oklahoma Veterans Suicide Prevention Coalition to enhance access to care.
From Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Oklahoma Veterans Treatment Courts (Zone4Vets)
Oklahoma treatment courts that earn the Zone4Vets distinction are trained to identify justice-involved veterans and connect them to community veteran resources instead of jail. The courts provide court-supervised treatment, accountability, and support.
From Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs
Oregon's state agency for veterans, serving about 266,000 veterans statewide through benefits counseling, home loans, veterans' care homes, and grant programs.
From Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA). Verified 2026-07-05.
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ODVA Justice-Involved Veterans Resources
ODVA's guide for veterans in the criminal justice system. It explains Oregon's veterans courts and dockets, which let prosecutors direct veterans into treatment instead of jail for non-violent offenses, and points to the VA's Veterans Justice Outreach and reentry programs and to Legal Aid Services of Oregon for legal help.
From Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA). Verified 2026-07-06.
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South Carolina Governor's Challenge to Prevent Veteran Suicide
A statewide veteran suicide prevention effort that connects service members, veterans, and families to crisis support, screening, and care coordination. It includes the Ask the Question campaign, the Palmetto Pathfinder Program for connecting people to care, and lethal means safety education.
From South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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South Carolina Veterans Treatment Court Program
Special court dockets that help veterans facing criminal charges tied to service-related issues get treatment instead of moving through the regular criminal justice system. Participants are connected to VA benefits, treatment programs, veteran mentors, and mental health professionals, and successful completion can lead to charges being expunged.
From South Carolina Judicial Branch. Verified 2026-07-06.
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South Dakota Veterans Treatment Court
Veterans Court is one of South Dakota's treatment courts, a court-supervised program that helps veterans facing the criminal justice system address substance use and mental health challenges through individualized recovery plans, supervision, and support instead of incarceration.
From South Dakota Unified Judicial System. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Tennessee Veterans Treatment Courts
State-supported specialty court dockets for veterans facing criminal charges who are struggling with addiction, serious mental illness, or PTSD. They combine judicially supervised treatment, volunteer veteran mentors, and partnership with VA health care and benefits offices as an alternative to incarceration. Tennessee has veterans treatment courts in Blount, Davidson, Knox, Montgomery, Shelby, and Williamson Counties.
From Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Recovery Courts program. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Texas Mental Health Program for Veterans
A statewide program that connects service members, veterans, and their families with free peer-to-peer counseling through local mental health authorities. Peer service coordinators engage veterans directly, and a pilot funds licensed mental health providers who offer free direct mental health services in some areas.
From Texas Health and Human Services Commission with the Texas Veterans Commission. Verified 2026-07-06.
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WDVA Counseling and Wellness Program
A state-funded program that provides free, confidential counseling to Washington veterans and their families, including help with PTSD and other effects of military service. The program covers the cost of your counseling sessions.
From Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Wisconsin Veterans Treatment Courts
Wisconsin has 16 court-connected veterans treatment programs covering 33 counties. These courts offer veterans facing criminal charges tied to substance use, mental health, or PTSD a path of treatment and court supervision instead of standard prosecution, with a mentor and an individual treatment plan.
From Wisconsin Court System. Verified 2026-07-06.
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R.A.F.T. Veteran Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Program
The state's veteran suicide prevention program, Resource Availability Family Tapestry (R.A.F.T.), connects service members, veterans, and their families to mental health support and crisis resources across West Virginia, working to reduce stigma and build community partnerships.
From West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Disability and VA claims
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Veteran Specialty License Plates
Lets qualified veterans get a veteran-themed license plate, such as Veteran, Combat, Combat Wounded, Pearl Harbor Survivor, Former POW, war-era veteran, or Gold Star Family, for the same cost as a regular plate. Also available for motorcycles.
From Hawaii Office of Veterans' Services (OVS), Department of Defense (certification); county motor vehicle offices (issuance). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid Network (IL-AFLAN)
A statewide free legal aid hotline and network for current and former military members and their families with low to moderate incomes. Attorneys help with discharge upgrades, VA benefits appeals, and civil legal problems like family, housing, and consumer issues.
From Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs (Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid Network). Verified 2026-07-06.
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How to file a VA disability compensation claim
This VA.gov guide explains how to file a claim for VA disability compensation, the monthly tax-free payment for a condition connected to your military service. You can file online, by mail, by fax, or in person. The most useful thing to know: a trained Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative will help you prepare and file your claim for free, so you do not have to figure out the paperwork alone.
From U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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How to request your DD-214 and military service records
This guide explains how to get a copy of your DD-214 and other military service records from the National Archives, using milConnect, the online eVetRecs tool, or a mailed SF-180 form. The single most useful fact: there is generally no charge for basic personnel and medical records provided to veterans and their next of kin. And if you are applying for VA benefits, the VA will request your DD-214 for you when it gets your application, so you may not need to request it yourself.
From U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and National Archives. Verified 2026-07-06.
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How to appeal or ask for a review of a VA decision
This VA guide explains the three ways to challenge a VA benefit decision you disagree with: a Supplemental Claim (when you have new evidence), a Higher-Level Review (a senior reviewer looks again, no new evidence), and a Board Appeal (a Veterans Law Judge reviews your case). The most useful fact: an accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative, attorney, or claims agent can help you request any of these reviews for free.
From U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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How a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) helps you file claims for free
A Veteran Service Officer, also called an accredited VSO representative, is a trained expert who can file your VA disability claim or appeal for you and help you find benefits you may have missed. The single most important fact: a VSO does this work for free. VA states that the services an accredited VSO representative provides on your VA benefit claims are always free, so you never pay out of pocket to have one represent you.
From U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs
Oregon's state agency for veterans, serving about 266,000 veterans statewide through benefits counseling, home loans, veterans' care homes, and grant programs.
From Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA). Verified 2026-07-05.
Read it on their site
Legal help
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California Veterans Treatment Courts
Special court programs that give justice-involved veterans treatment and supervision instead of the usual path through the criminal system. A veteran works with a judge, mentors, and treatment providers on a plan that addresses the issues behind the charges, such as PTSD or traumatic brain injury.
From Judicial Branch of California. Verified 2026-07-06.
Read it on their site -
Delaware Veteran Treatment Court
A statewide court program that steers eligible veterans facing criminal charges away from the usual criminal justice process and into supervised treatment for substance use, PTSD, or other mental health issues. Charges can be deferred and dismissed on successful completion of a treatment plan.
From Delaware Superior Court, with the Delaware Office of Veterans Services and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Hawaii Veterans Treatment Court
A special court program for veterans facing criminal charges who struggle with reintegration, mental health issues like PTSD, or substance abuse. It pairs treatment, housing help, job training, and a veteran mentor with court supervision instead of the usual path through the criminal system.
From Hawaii State Judiciary. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid Network (IL-AFLAN)
A statewide free legal aid hotline and network for current and former military members and their families with low to moderate incomes. Attorneys help with discharge upgrades, VA benefits appeals, and civil legal problems like family, housing, and consumer issues.
From Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs (Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid Network). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Louisiana Veterans Court Programs
Specialized court programs in several Louisiana judicial districts divert eligible veterans facing criminal charges into treatment, supervision, and support instead of the traditional system. Programs pair veterans with treatment for substance use, PTSD, and mental health, plus benefits counseling, job training, and housing help.
From Louisiana district courts, established under Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 13, Chapter 33-B. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Maine Veterans Treatment Court
A special court docket for veterans facing criminal charges tied to a substance use disorder or mental health condition. Instead of a standard sentence, participants get a treatment plan, regular court check-ins, a veteran peer mentor, and a connection to the VA and Maine Vet Centers.
From State of Maine Judicial Branch. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Michigan Veterans Treatment Courts
Special courts that help justice-involved veterans resolve underlying issues, such as mental health and substance use, that may have contributed to their arrest. They provide treatment and support services as an alternative to incarceration for some non-violent offenses. Michigan has 25 operational veterans treatment courts.
From State Court Administrative Office, Michigan Supreme Court. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Minnesota Veterans Preference Act (Public Hiring)
State law that gives most veterans a hiring and promotion preference for public jobs in Minnesota. On an open competitive government exam, a veteran who passes can choose 10 extra points; a veteran with a compensable service-connected disability can choose 15 extra points; and a disabled veteran rated 50 percent or more can choose 5 extra points on a promotion.
From Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Minnesota Veterans Court (Treatment Courts)
Veterans Court is one of Minnesota's treatment courts. Instead of the usual criminal process, a judge leads a team of prosecutors, defense counsel, probation, treatment providers, and others to move a veteran with a substance use or mental health disorder into treatment and recovery, with regular court check-ins, supervision, and testing.
From Minnesota Judicial Branch. Verified 2026-07-06.
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How to appeal or ask for a review of a VA decision
This VA guide explains the three ways to challenge a VA benefit decision you disagree with: a Supplemental Claim (when you have new evidence), a Higher-Level Review (a senior reviewer looks again, no new evidence), and a Board Appeal (a Veterans Law Judge reviews your case). The most useful fact: an accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative, attorney, or claims agent can help you request any of these reviews for free.
From U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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North Dakota Veterans Treatment Court
A court program that connects justice-involved veterans to mental health and substance use treatment, supervision, and veteran mentors as an alternative path through the justice system. It aims to promote recovery, stability, and accountability rather than incarceration.
From North Dakota Court System (Northeast Central Judicial District). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Oklahoma Veterans Treatment Courts (Zone4Vets)
Oklahoma treatment courts that earn the Zone4Vets distinction are trained to identify justice-involved veterans and connect them to community veteran resources instead of jail. The courts provide court-supervised treatment, accountability, and support.
From Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Verified 2026-07-06.
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ODVA Justice-Involved Veterans Resources
ODVA's guide for veterans in the criminal justice system. It explains Oregon's veterans courts and dockets, which let prosecutors direct veterans into treatment instead of jail for non-violent offenses, and points to the VA's Veterans Justice Outreach and reentry programs and to Legal Aid Services of Oregon for legal help.
From Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA). Verified 2026-07-06.
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South Carolina Veterans Treatment Court Program
Special court dockets that help veterans facing criminal charges tied to service-related issues get treatment instead of moving through the regular criminal justice system. Participants are connected to VA benefits, treatment programs, veteran mentors, and mental health professionals, and successful completion can lead to charges being expunged.
From South Carolina Judicial Branch. Verified 2026-07-06.
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South Dakota Veterans Treatment Court
Veterans Court is one of South Dakota's treatment courts, a court-supervised program that helps veterans facing the criminal justice system address substance use and mental health challenges through individualized recovery plans, supervision, and support instead of incarceration.
From South Dakota Unified Judicial System. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Tennessee Veterans Treatment Courts
State-supported specialty court dockets for veterans facing criminal charges who are struggling with addiction, serious mental illness, or PTSD. They combine judicially supervised treatment, volunteer veteran mentors, and partnership with VA health care and benefits offices as an alternative to incarceration. Tennessee has veterans treatment courts in Blount, Davidson, Knox, Montgomery, Shelby, and Williamson Counties.
From Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Recovery Courts program. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Wisconsin Veterans Treatment Courts
Wisconsin has 16 court-connected veterans treatment programs covering 33 counties. These courts offer veterans facing criminal charges tied to substance use, mental health, or PTSD a path of treatment and court supervision instead of standard prosecution, with a mentor and an individual treatment plan.
From Wisconsin Court System. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Burial and memorial
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Florida Veteran Burial and Memorial Benefits
FDVA explains the burial and memorial benefits Florida veterans and eligible family members have earned. Burial in a VA national cemetery is provided at no cost to the family, including the gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, a grave liner, a government headstone or marker, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate. For veterans buried in a private cemetery, the VA still provides a government headstone, marker, or medallion, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate at no cost.
From Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (guidance), with burial provided by U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs national cemeteries. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery Burial
Provides a free gravesite, marker, grave opening and closing, perpetual care, and a burial flag for eligible veterans and their family members at the state veterans cemetery in Kaneohe or partner island cemeteries. The family still pays the funeral home for mortuary services like transporting the remains.
From Hawaii Office of Veterans' Services (OVS), Department of Defense. Verified 2026-07-05.
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Veteran Specialty License Plates
Lets qualified veterans get a veteran-themed license plate, such as Veteran, Combat, Combat Wounded, Pearl Harbor Survivor, Former POW, war-era veteran, or Gold Star Family, for the same cost as a regular plate. Also available for motorcycles.
From Hawaii Office of Veterans' Services (OVS), Department of Defense (certification); county motor vehicle offices (issuance). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Kentucky State Veterans Cemeteries
Provides a free gravesite, grave opening and closing, perpetual care, a government headstone or marker, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate at one of five state veterans cemeteries. Spouses can be buried with the veteran for a one-time $500 fee, paid only at the time of death.
From Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-05.
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Ohio Military Burial Benefits and Honors
ODVS's military burials page explains the burial benefits and honors available to Ohio veterans and their families, including a VA headstone or marker for a private-cemetery burial, a burial flag to drape the casket or urn, Presidential Memorial Certificates, and military funeral honors with flag folding and Taps. It also links to Ohio's national cemeteries. Veterans who are current residents of an Ohio Veterans Home may request burial at the Ohio Veterans Home Cemetery in Sandusky.
From Ohio Department of Veterans Services. Verified 2026-07-06.
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ODVA Veteran Burial and Memorial Benefits
ODVA's guide to burial and memorial benefits for Oregon veterans. It explains the federal VA burial allowance that can help families cover funeral and burial costs, plus free burial flags, military funeral honors, government headstones or markers, bronze medallions, and Presidential Memorial Certificates.
From Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA). Verified 2026-07-06.
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Tennessee State Veterans Cemeteries
Tennessee maintains five state veterans cemeteries: one in Nashville, one in Memphis, two in Knoxville, and one at Parkers Crossroads. Veterans and dependents can pre-register for burial at no cost, and TDVS mails a formal response 4 to 6 weeks after receiving the application.
From Tennessee Department of Veterans Services. Verified 2026-07-05.
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Washington State Veterans Cemetery at Medical Lake
The state veterans cemetery near Medical Lake provides burial for eligible veterans and their family members. There is no direct charge to inter a veteran, and family member interment costs 311 dollars as of October 1, 2025. Benefits include an inscribed government marker, a concrete vault for casket burials, military honors on request, and perpetual grounds care.
From Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Family and caregivers
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Maine Veterans' Services Suicide Prevention and Case Management
A free program funded through the federal SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grant that provides outreach, mental health screenings, case management, peer support, and connections to resources for veterans and their families. The Bureau also lists crisis resources including the Veterans Crisis Line (dial 988 then press 1).
From Bureau of Maine Veterans' Services. Verified 2026-07-06.
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Survivor benefits: DIC and Survivors Pension for spouses and dependents
This guide explains the two main monthly payments the VA pays to a veteran's survivors: Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), a tax-free payment for surviving spouses, children, or parents when the veteran died in service or from a service-connected illness or injury, and the Survivors Pension, a needs-based payment for the surviving spouse or unmarried dependent child of a wartime veteran. You do not have to file alone or pay anyone: an accredited attorney, claims agent, or Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative can help you file the claim, and a VSO representative's help is always free. You apply using VA Form 21P-534EZ.
From U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Verified 2026-07-06.
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