Veterans Benefits. James R. (Jim Bob) Rollins Lieutenant Colonel, Retired, United States Army 9 April Veteran Benefits

Transcription

1 Veterans Benefits James R. (Jim Bob) Rollins Lieutenant Colonel, Retired, United States Army 9 April 2015 Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 1

2 Session Description Benefits for Veterans from VA and other agencies. Guidance on filing a disability claim. Q&A. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 2

3 Angelina College Procurement Assistance Center Developing Government Contracting Opportunities for the Texas Forest Country Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 3

4 ACPAC Services are FREE!!! Purpose: ACPAC is a non-profit organization that assists small business compete and win government contracts from federal, state, and local government agencies. Services Offered: Determining if your company is ready for government opportunities Government Registrations Computerized Bid-match Services Government Contract Histories Military Specifications and Department of Defense Adopted Industry Standards Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 4

5 HOT TOPIC Governor Abbott Delivers State of The State Address 17 Feb 2015 The following are excerpt from the Governor s Speech on Veterans: That s why my budget exempts new businesses formed by veterans from having to pay state registration fees to open their businesses. My budget also exempts new businesses formed by veterans from paying state franchise taxes for the first 5 years, and I m calling for legislation to waive licensing exams and fees for veterans with the required education, training and practical experience gained in the military. If the training you received as an electrician, a technician or some other job meets the standard of the United States military, it should be good enough for the State of Texas. We must also do more for our veterans who return broken from battle. Not all wounds are seen. My budget includes funding to provide mental health screenings to veterans and service members to help them deal with some if their deepest wounds. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 5

6 Veteran Impact Geographic Distribution of VA Expenditures (GDX) Prepared each fiscal year by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Policy, Planning and Preparedness Presents the estimated dollar expenditures for major VA Programs by county and Congressional Districts within each state. Expenditure data is grouped by the following categories: State/County/ Congressional District Veteran Population* Total Expenditure FY13 Summary of Expenditures by State Compensation & Pension Expenditures in $000s Construction Education & Vocational Rehabilitation/ Employment Insurance & Indemnities Medical Care Unique Patients** United States 21,882,153 $ 142,822,345 $ 63,574,737 $ 1,330,053 $ 11,949,205 $ 1,699,587 $ 55,993,792 5,690,384 Texas 1,667,740 $ 12,943,393 $ 6,091,910 $ 30,026 $ 1,118,114 $ 110,750 $ 3,986, ,255 Cong District 1 53,293 $ 290,690 $ 168,866 $ - $ 15,191 $ 2,300 $ 104,333 14,096 ANGELINA 6,160 $ 42,046 $ 24,600 $ - $ 1,531 $ 247 $ 15,668 2,151 NACOGDOCHES 4,026 $ 23,504 $ 14,157 $ - $ 1,950 $ 197 $ 7,200 1,036 SMITH 16,355 $ 81,245 $ 50,323 $ - $ 5,354 $ 652 $ 24,916 3,770 Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 6

7 Hot News for Veterans Burn Pit Registry: Signed into law on 10 Jan th Congress, Senate Bill 3202 IN GENERAL. Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall (A) establish and maintain an open burn pit registry for eligible individuals who may have been exposed to toxic airborne chemicals and fumes caused by open burn pits; (B) include any information in such registry that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs determines necessary to ascertain and monitor the health effects of the exposure of members of the Armed Forces to toxic airborne chemicals and fumes caused by open burn pits; (C) develop a public information campaign to inform eligible individuals about the open burn pit registry, including how to register and the benefits of registering; and (D) periodically notify eligible individuals of significant developments in the study and treatment of conditions associated with exposure to toxic airborne chemicals and fumes caused by open burn pits. ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUAL. The term eligible individual means any individual who, on or after September 11, 2001 (A) was deployed in support of a contingency operation while serving in the Armed Forces; and (B) during such deployment, was based or stationed at a location where an open burn pit was used. OPEN BURN PIT. The term open burn pit means an area of land located in Afghanistan or Iraq that (A) is designated by the Secretary of Defense to be used for disposing solid waste by burning in the outdoor air; and (B) does not contain a commercially manufactured incinerator or other equipment specifically designed and manufactured for the burning of solid waste. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 7

8 Hot News for Veterans DoD and VA to scrap electronic health record program due to costs after spending $1Billion on the project. TAPS Designated National Song of Remembrance 2013 Defense Authorization Act: Sec Sense of Congress that the bugle call commonly known as Taps should be designated as the National Song of Military Remembrance. VA Form Requirement Changes - Effective 24 March 2015 Veterans can no longer begin filing a disability claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs by writing an informal statement on any piece of paper. Veterans can only use a specific standardized claim or appeal forms found online. Salute during the Pledge of Allegiance This is not been included in the Defense Authorization Act, but has been tried. You can do either way without going to jail. TEXAS Putting VETERAN on your driver s license Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 8

9 Veteran Facts Nov ,299,250 Living Veterans 2,001,252 who are women 37 million dependents (spouses and dependent children) of living veterans and survivors of deceased veterans Represents 20% of the US population Living Veterans by War Era as of October 2014 World War I Last Veteran died 27 Feb 2011, age 110 World War II ( ) 1,711,000 Living Veterans (413 pass away per day) Korean ( ) 2,275,000 Living Veterans Vietnam ( ) 7,391,000 Living Veterans Desert Shield / Storm ( ) 2,244,583 Living Veterans Global War on Terror (2001?) not available Casualties 7 Oct March 2015 = 54,830 States with the largest veteran population are CA, FL, TX, NY, PA, and OH, respectively. These six states account for about 36.9% of the total veteran population. One child of Civil War veteran still draw VA benefits. 96 children and widows of Spanish-American War veterans still receive VA compensation or pensions. 5 children of Mexican Border War. Over 3,000 children or spouses of WW I. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 9

10 Veterans Pride www1.va.gov/opa/pressrel/docs/july4-vet-pride.doc Message from Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson That is why I am calling on America's veterans to wear their military medals on Veterans Day, Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. Wearing their medals demonstrates the deep pride our veterans have in their military service and reminds all American citizens of the sacrifices our veterans have made. Veterans, wear your pride on your left side on patriotic holidays! Let America know who you are and what you did for freedom. NOTE: That is why you request your medals for free through evetrecs. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 10

11 Public Law Veterans Still Saluting SEC CONDUCT BY MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES AND VETERANS OUT OF UNIFORM DURING HOISTING, LOWERING, OR PASSING OF UNITED STATES FLAG. Section 9 of title 4, United States Code, is amended by striking ``all persons present'' and all that follows through the end of the section and inserting the following: ``all persons present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Citizens of other countries present should stand at attention. All such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment the flag passes.''. 28 Jan 2008: Signed by the President and became Public Law Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 11

12 Public Law Amended Still Saluting SEC MILITARY SALUTE FOR THE FLAG DURING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM BY MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES NOT IN UNIFORM AND BY VETERANS. Section 301(b)(1) of title 36, United States Code, is amended by striking subparagraphs (A) through (C) and inserting the following new subparagraphs: (A) individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note; (B) members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute in the manner provided for individuals in uniform; and (C) all other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, and men not in uniform, if applicable, should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and. 14 Oct 2008: Signed by the President and became Public Law Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 12

13 Cold War Certificate Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 13

14 The Registry of the American Soldier Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 14

15 VA Headstones, Markers, and Medallions Department of Veterans Affairs is making available a new medallion to be affixed to an existing privately purchased headstone or marker to signify the deceased's status as a veteran. If requested, the medallion will be furnished in lieu of a traditional Government headstone or marker for veterans that died on or after November 1, 1990, and whose grave is marked with a privately purchased headstone or marker. The medallion is currently available in three sizes, 5 inches, 3 inches, and 1 ½ inches. Each medallion will be inscribed with the word VETERAN across the top and the Branch of Service at the bottom. Appropriate affixing adhesive, instructions and hardware will be provided with the medallion. Medallion Headstone Flat - Bronze Flat - Granite Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 15

16 Purple Heart Traumatic Brain Injury ARMY DIRECTIVE , DATED 29 APR 2011 Announcement said, soldiers must have required treatment from a medical officer even if one was not available for concussion, loss of consciousness, memory loss or other symptoms of mild TBI. Types of treatment that would meet the standard for the award include limitation of duty and administration of pain medication. Veterans and Retirees should submit their request to: COMMANDER, USA HRC ATTN: AWARDS AND DECORATIONS BRANCH (AHRC-PDP-A) 1600 SPEARHEAD DIVISION AVENUE FORT KNOX, KY AT HRC.TAGD.AWARDS@CONUS.ARMY.MIL. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 16

17 Legion d Honneur for U.S. Veterans Upon presentation of their military file as detailed hereunder, US veterans who risked their life during World War II to fight on French territory, may be awarded this distinction. Those selected are appointed to the rank of Knight of the Legion of Honor. The Legion of Honor medal is not awarded posthumously. Created to honor extraordinary contributions to the country, the Legion of Honor is France s highest distinction. To be eligible to this outstanding award, the veteran has to fit strict criteria: Interested veterans of all the different armed forces must have fought in at least one of the 3 main campaigns of the Liberation of France: Normandy, Provence/Southern France or Northern France. Actions having taken place in Belgium, Germany, Italy or any other neighboring European country are not taken into consideration. The file presented must contain a copy of the military separation record (honorable discharge), the Proposal Memory application, and a copy of a current identity document with a picture. NOTE: Veteran must be alive when the submission is made. The French Government will not acknowledge receipt, provide status, or tell if disapproved. It will just arrive in the mail if approved. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 17

18 Korean Government Awards for Korean War Veterans The Korean Government has presented several awards for Korean War Veterans over the years: Korean Ambassador for Peace Medal and Certificates for 50 and 60 year Anniversaries. Korean Ambassador for Peace Medal: The medal is an expression of appreciation from the South Korean government to US service men and women who served in the Korean conflict. To be eligible, the veterans must have served in country during the Korean War from June 25, 1950 to July 27, It is also available for the veterans who have participated in UN peacekeeping operations until the end of If a veteran was a Navy service member and had served aboard a naval vessel, then he or she is eligible if the naval vessel was assigned into Korean waters during the 1950 to 1953 time frame. Fill out the form located at: If traveling to Korea it will be presented in an official ceremony. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 18

19 Korean Government Awards for Korean War Veterans 50th Anniversary Certificate: This was a certificate available for Veterans that served in Korea, its territorial waters, or airspace from 25 June 1950 to 31 January Only the Kentucky Department of Veteran Affairs has them. But will take submissions from any state th Anniversary Certificate: This was a certificate available for Veterans that served in Korea, its territorial waters, or airspace from 25 June 1950 to 27 July It was a joint effort between the Korean government and the DoD 60 th Anniversary of the Korean War Commemoration Committee. However, it is no long available, since the committee has been disbanded. Korean Defense Service Medal (KDSM): KDSM is a service medal to give special recognition for the sacrifices and contributions made by members of the U.S. armed forces who have served or are serving in the Republic of Korea from the time period 28 July 1954 till a time determined by the Secretary of Defense. al%20kdsm Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 19

20 230 + Stores & Services Offering Military Discounts There is no way we can ever properly thank members of the US Military for all that they have done. They are certainly not paid enough for their work and their great sacrifice. Iraq and Afghanistan have been particularly tough and stressful for members of the military, their families and loved ones. We have found stores and services doing their part to make life easier by offering discounts to active, reserve, and retired members of the US Military and their immediate family members. Site includes: Restaurants: Applebee's, Arby's, A&W, Back Yard Burgers, Barnhill's, Sonic Travel: AmTrak, Best Western, Choice Hotels, Continental Airlines, Cruise lines Car Care: AutoZone, Big 10 Tires, Checker Auto Parts, Jiffy Lube, Meineke Cell Phone Service Discounts: Alltel, Cingular, Sprint/NexTel, T-Mobile Clothing and Shoes: Aeropostale, The Children's Place, Dress Barn, Foot Action Entertainment: Anheuser-Busch Amusement Parks, Blockbuster, Disney Resorts Others: AT&T, Geico, Sears Portrait Studio, Apple Computers, Bass Pro Shops Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 20

21 U.S. Armed Forces Legal Assistance The Armed Forces Legal Assistance (AFLA) Web site is a joint initiative of the Armed Forces legal assistance offices that aims to provide general legal information to the military community to enhance its readiness. The information provided through this Web site is for educational and general information purposes only. It is not legal advice. Site includes: Consumer and Financial Affairs Deployment Readiness Disaster Assistance Family Law Immigration Military Benefits Powers of Attorney Real Property Service members Civil Relief Act (SCRA) Taxation Voting Wills & Estate Planning Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 21

22 Definition of a Veteran (US Code Title 38 Veterans Benefits, Part I General Provisions, Chapter 1 General, Section 101 Definitions) The term veteran means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable. Eligibility for Benefits: Active Duty: Discharged under other than dishonorable conditions Active service means full-time service, other than active duty for training Member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or as a commissioned officer of the Public Health Service, Environmental Science Services Administration or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Selected Reserve or National Guard Duty: Completed six years of honorable service; Active Duty, not for training for 181 days; or Active Duty, not for training for 90 days during a period of war. Current war periods: Prior to Vietnam War (Mexican Border Period , World War I , World War II , and Korean War ). Vietnam War: Aug. 5, 1964 (Feb. 28, 1961, for veterans who served in country before Aug. 5, 1964), through May 7, Gulf War: Aug. 2, 1990, through a date to be set by law or Presidential Proclamation. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 22

23 Compensation Disability Monthly Rate 10 Percent $ Percent Percent Percent Percent 836-1, Percent 1,059-1, Percent 1,334-1, Percent 1,551-1, Percent 1,743-2, Percent 2,906-3,447 Additional child from $78 to $260 Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Basic Rate $1, Additional: Each Child $310 Aid and Attendance $310 Housebound $145 Add $266 if 100% disabled for 8 years prior to death Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 23

24 Veteran Affairs Benefits (Filing for Benefits) Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 24

25 VA Form Requirement Changes 38 CFR Parts 3, 19. and 20 Federal Register Vol. 79, No. 186 / Thursday, September 25, 2014 / Rules and Regulations Effective 24 March 2015 Veterans can no longer begin filing a disability claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs by writing an informal statement on any piece of paper. Veterans can only use a specific standardized claim or appeal forms found online. VA Form Intent to File a Claim for Compensation and/ or Pension, Survivors Pension, or Other Benefits. VA Form EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits. VA Form EZ, Application for Pension. VA Form EZ, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), survivors pension and accrued benefits. VA Form , Notice of Disagreement. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 25

26 VA Statistics Potentially eligible for VA benefits and services 22,299,250 Veterans In 30 September 2013, there were 5,690,384 Veterans receiving VA benefits and/or services (26%). $93.4 billion for Veteran s benefits and services $55.9 billion for health care $63.6 billion for benefits 3.88 million Veterans receive compensation or pension $230.0 million for the national cemetery system 8.92 million Veterans in the VA s health care system 2.9 million sought care in million sought care in 2011, with over 60 million outpatient visits VA operates 1,400 medical facilities hospitals, 819 outpatient clinics, 135 nursing homes, 47 domiciliaries, 300 readjustment counseling centers, and 108 home-care programs Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 26

27 VA Statistics (cont) VA Locations - 56 regional offices and 131 national cemeteries in 39 states and Puerto Rico VA Home Loans 2.19 million Vets have home loans $220.8 billion in loans, 90% use no down payment VA Insurance 6.56 million policy holders Valued at $1.3 trillion VA Supports as of September 2014 Civil War 1 dependent child Spanish American War 51 dependent children and 45 spouses Mexican Border - 5 children and 10 spouses World War I 1,835 dependent children and 1,596 spouses. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 27

28 VA Statistics Potentially eligible for VA benefits and services And do not use them VA Education 0.92 million Veterans and active-duty personnel, 106,092 reservists and National Guardsmen, and 80,079 survivors receive education or training benefits 20% are first time recipients 95% of active duty sign up for the GI Bill (cost about $1,200) only 70% ever use it when they get out 7% of Veterans who separated before 1997 used up all their benefits by the 10 year limit Non-veterans (41%) were more likely than Veterans (15%) to enroll in a bachelor s degree program VA Claims Over 1.6 million have served since 2001 in OEF/OIF As of 2007, only 223,564 Veterans have filed a claim Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 28

29 Department of Veterans Affairs Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 29

30 Veteran Records Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 30

31 National Personnel Records Center Fire Why Request Records from evetrecs See what they system has Get set of medals free Impact 1973 Fire Army (80% Loss) 1 Nov Jan 1950 Air Force (75% Loss) 25 Sep Jan 1964 Awards made after Separation Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 31

32 evetrecs Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 32

33 evetrecs Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 33

34 Department of Veterans Affairs -- Medical and Administration-- Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 34

35 Department of Veterans Affairs Two Major Branches Medical and Administration Key Forms Medical - VA Form 10-10EZ Application for Health Benefits Administration - VA Form EZ Application for Compensation or Pension Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 35

36 Department of Veterans Affairs -- Medical -- Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 36

37 Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 37

38 Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 38

39 VA Copayment Rates Type of Care Who must Pay a Co-payment Co-payment Amount Out Patient Care Medications Extended Care Non-service-connected disability (except WWI veterans, former POWs and veterans with a Purple Heart and Income above the Means Test threshold based on veteran family's income and net worth (higher income veterans). Veterans in Priority Groups 2 through 7 must pay this co-payment whenever they obtain medication from VA on an out-patient basis for treatment of a Non-service-connected disability. Priority Group 1 veterans and veterans on a VA pension are not required to make medication co-payments. Non-service-connected disability, and Income about the threshold for the VA Form EC(higher income veterans). If you have a compensable service connected disability or are receiving care relative to exposure or experience, you will not have to make co-payments for Extended Care $15 for each basic care outpatient visit. $50 for each specialty care outpatient visit $0 for preventive screenings, immunizations, lab test, film radiology an EKGs. $8 - $9 for each 30-day(or less) supply of medication, including over-the-counter medications. The total amount of co-payments payable in a calendar year is capped at $960 for Priority Groups 2 through 6. There is currently no cap for Priority Group 7 Extended care co-payments vary from veteran to veteran and are based on ability to pay. Up to $97 for each day nursing home care, institutional geriatric evaluation. Up to $15 for each day of adult day health care, non institutional respite care, or noninstitutional geriatric evaluation. Up to $5 for domicilary care Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 39

40 Financial Assessment (Means Test) county name veteran only + 1 dependent + 2 dependent + 3 dependent + 4 dependent + 5 dependent + 6 dependent + 7 dependent Angelina County $30965 $35365 $39765 $44165 $47740 $51260 $54780 $58300 Nacogdoches County $32670 $37345 $42020 $46640 $50380 $54120 $57860 $61600 San Augustine County $30965 $35365 $39765 $44165 $47740 $51260 $54780 $58300 Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 40

41 VA Priority Groups (1/3) Priority Group 1 Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 50% or more Veterans assigned a total disability rating for compensation based on unemployability Priority Group 2 Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 30% or 40% Priority Group 3 Veterans who are former POWs. Veterans awarded the Purple Heart Medal. Veterans awarded the Medal of Honor. Veterans whose discharge was for a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty. Veterans with VA Service-connected disabilities rated 10% or 20%. Veterans awarded special eligibility classification under Title 38, U.S.C., 1151, benefits for individuals disabled by treatment or vocational rehabilitation. Priority Group 4 Veterans who are receiving aid and attendance or housebound benefits Veterans who have been determined by VA to be catastrophically disabled Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 41

42 VA Priority Groups (2/3) Priority Group 5 Nonservice-connected Veterans and noncompensable Service-connected Veterans rated 0%, whose annual income and/or net worth are not greater than the VA financial thresholds. Veterans receiving VA Pension benefits. Veterans eligible for Medicaid benefits. Priority Group 6 Compensable 0% Service-connected Veterans. Veterans exposed to ionizing radiation during atmospheric testing or during the occupation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Project 112/SHAD participants. Veterans who served in the Republic of Vietnam between January 9, 1962 and May 7, Veterans who served in the Southwest Asia theater of operations from August 2, 1990, through November 11, Veterans who served in a theater of combat operations after November 11, 1998, as follows: Veterans discharged from active duty on or after January 28, 2003, for five years post discharge Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 42

43 VA Priority Groups (3/3) Priority Group 7 Veterans with incomes below the geographic means test (GMT) income thresholds and who agree to pay the applicable copayment. Priority Group 8 Veterans with gross household incomes above the VA national income threshold and the geographically-adjusted income threshold for their resident location and who agrees to pay copays Veterans eligibility for enrollment: Noncompensable 0% service-connected and: Subpriority a: Enrolled as of January 16, 2003, and who have remained enrolled since that date and/ or placed in this subpriority due to changed eligibility status. Subpriority b: Enrolled on or after June 15, 2009 whose income exceeds the current VA National Income Thresholds or VA National Geographic Income Thresholds by 10% or less Veterans eligible for enrollment: Nonservice-connected and: Subpriority c: Enrolled as January 16, 2003, and who remained enrolled since that date and/ or placed in this subpriority due to changed eligibility status Subpriority d: Enrolled on or after June 15, 2009 whose income exceeds the current VA National Income Thresholds or VA National Geographic Income Thresholds by 10% or less Veterans not eligible for enrollment: Veterans not meeting the criteria above: Subpriority e: Noncompensable 0% service-connected Subpriority g: Nonservice-connected Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 43

44 Department of Veterans Affairs -- Administrative -- Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 44

45 VA Claims VA Form Intent to File a Claim VA Form EZ Veteran s Application for Compensation and / or Pension Claims Facts million claims processed over 1.3 million received in % will be denied % of those denied will be erroneous 60% will take longer than 125 days (253,522 claims) 7% will be lost % completely lost Approximately 519,530 pending claims (in ,000 claims) Oldest Claim = 10 years old 4% are older than 2 years. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 45

46 Service Organizations Disabled American Veterans (DAV) American Legion Veterans of Foreign Wars Purple Heart Association Texas Veterans Commission Texas Veterans Land Board Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 46

47 Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 47

48 Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 48

49 Agent Orange Registry Ensure all who were exposed receive appropriate medical care. Vietnam from 9 January May 1975 Service on land in Vietnam or on the inland waterways of Vietnam (Brown Water Veterans) Blue Water Navy from 9 January May 1975 Must provide proof of exposure Thailand Military Bases from 9 January May 1975 Exposed during the testing, transporting, or spraying of Agent Orange or other herbicides in the U.S. and outside the U.S. Guam (Sep 1968 Jun 1978) Korea in the DMZ from 1 April August 1971 Contacts VA or Vietnam Veterans of America ( ) Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 49

50 agentorange/index.asp Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 50

51 Why Register? Recognized as Service Connected 12 Cancers: Chloracne; Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma; Soft tissue sarcoma; Hodgkin s disease; Porphyria cutanea tarda; Multiple myeloma; Respiratory cancers larynx, trachea, and bronchus; Prostate cancer; Acute and subacute transient peripheral neuropathy Al Amyloidosis Type 2 diabetes and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) Spina bifida in veterans with children ( ; or spinabifda@aol.com) NEW (13 October 2009) Chronic B-cell Leukemias hairy cell, Parkinson s, and ischernic heart disease Free Medical Exam - Used for future claims with VA Become part of the program, so that you will always be kept informed Currently 100,000 new claims filed monthly based on new rulings Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 51

52 agentorange/shiplist/index.asp Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 52

53 Gulf War Registry Mission Ensure all who served in the Gulf receive appropriate medical care Investigate and explain Gulf War illnesses, informing veterans and public of progress and findings Put in place all required military doctrine, and personnel and medical policies, and procedures to protect forces in the future. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 53

54 gulfwar/index.asp Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 54

55 Why Register Service Connected Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig s disease 13 signs or symptoms of undiagnosed illness Fibromyalgia Chronic fatigue syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome Infectious Diseases: Brucellosis, Campylobacter jejuni, Coxiella burnetii (Q fever), Malaria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Nontyphoid Salmonella, Shigella, Visceral leishmaniasis, and West Nile virus Free Medical Exam - Used for future claims with VA Become part of the program, so that you will always be kept informed POCs Veterans: (PGW-VETS) Active Duty: Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 55

56 Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 56

57 Mission Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom Ensure all who served in these operations receive appropriate medical care Similar to actions taken for Agent Orange and Gulf War. Benefits from Gulf War Registry still applies, since 1991 Gulf War has not been declared officially ended. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 57

58 Service Connected Why Register with VA Infectious Diseases: Brucellosis, Campylobacter jejuni, Coxiella burnetii (Q fever), Malaria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Nontyphoid Salmonella, Shigella, Visceral leishmaniasis, and West Nile virus Free Medical Exam - Used for future claims with VA Five Years of Cost Free Health Care 180 Day Dental Benefit Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 58

59 Websites for OIF and OEF - Provides information and assistance. ndex.asp - Listing of current information War- Related Illness and Injury Study Center. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 59

60 Veterans-Health.aspx Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 60

61 Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Examination Templates Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 61

62 VA Appeals Use a Veteran s Service Organization Over half of cases reversed or returned for reconsideration upon appeal 2012 Board of Veterans Appeals Statistical Data Appeals Filed 37,326 Appeals Docketed 49,611 Appeals Pending 44,959 Average Time 445 days Number of Board Members 64 members Appeals Status Decisions 44,300 Allowed 28.4% Remanded 45.8% Denied 22.5% Using Veterans Service Organization 17.7% % denied Veteran Alone 34.2% denied Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 62

63 Disability Ratings Code of Federal Regulations (CFR); Title 38: Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans Relief; Part 4 Schedule for Rating Disabilities Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 63

64 Disability Ratings Code of Federal Regulations (CFR); Title 38: Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans Relief; Part 4 Schedule for Rating Disabilities Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 64

65 Guidance Worst Case Not Best Case You re Not a Doctor If Not for You, Your Family Use It of Lose It Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 65

66 Review of Steps (1/3) You have to fill out the paperwork, you cannot get anything for nothing. Minimum, need a copy of your DD214 Discharge. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) Military Personnel Records Apply for DD214 and medical and personnel records. Two Procedures Medical and Administrative (Compensation) Medical Only gets you into the medical system, not compensation. VA Form 10-10EZ or online at the Veterans ON-line APPlication (VANAPP) Website - enefits_myeb_vonapp1 Based on priority and how applying. (Do not get wrapped up on financial information requirements). Gets you into the VA Medical system. See a VA Doctor at least once a year to keep your file current. Always highlight problems that you are applying compensation for. Worst Day, Not Best Day when discussing symptoms. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 66

67 Review of Steps (2/3) Administrative You have to apply for compensation, not automatic. VA Form Intent to File a Claim. Used to start the Clock on a Claim by establishing an effective date of a claim. One year to submit the VA Form EZ. VA Form EZ Compensation and Pension Program Application. Must use for all claims, no longer will a simple letter be used. Has to be done if compensation is going to be paid. List anything that has happened while in the service. Do not assume it is not service connected - You re Not a Doctor Three methods of service connection Presumptive Condition Military Assignments, Location, MOS, Work Location. Medical Records It is in your medical file or occurred within one year of getting out. Supporting Documentation Letters, pictures, statements, etc. from fellow service members supporting injury occurred while in the service. Compensation and Pension Physical Exam 3 6 months after received by VA Worst Case, not Best Case Have to make the appointments Once Decision Made Not happy, appeal the decision The determination letter, tells you how to apply for future benefits. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 67

68 Review of Steps (3/3) Backup Documentation Do not delay submitting paperwork for the 100% solution. Clock starts when paperwork submitted, not completed. If medical records not at VA, submit copy with application. If civilian records, try to have Doctor state, In my medical opinion, this is a result of military service. Civilian medical is suppose to provide at no cost. If first time application, must have copy of DD214, Report of Separation, to show prove of military service. Remember Do not miss deadlines if you do, whole process starts over Veteran was nonresponsive. Government agency, not made to be simple or easy. Not there for profit, there for job security. Do not ASSUME you have to keep checking and making sure the information is correct. Until process is complete, check once a month on medical appointments and administrative progress. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 68

69 Lesson Survivor Outwit Outplay Outlast Nike Just Do It Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 69

70 QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS I think if you know what you believe, it makes it a lot easier to answer questions. I m not gonna answer your questions. President George W. Bush Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 70

71 Other Programs Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay (CRDP) - Combat-Related Special Compensation (CSRC) - TRICARE for Life Army Veteran Medals Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) - Military Records - Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 71

72 VeteranAid.org American Veterans Institute. Helps Veterans apply for VA Improved Pensions Low Income. Eligibility: To qualify financially, an applicant must have on average less than $80,000 in assets, EXCLUDING their home and vehicles.. Basic Pension: A veteran alone must have countable income LESS than: $11,830/yr. A veteran with a spouse must have countable income LESS than: $15,493/yr. A surviving spouse must have countable income LESS than: $7,498/yr. A surviving spouse with a dependent must have countable income LESS than: $9,815/yr. Housebound Benefit: A veteran alone must have countable income of LESS than: $13,664/yr. A veteran with a spouse must have countable income LESS than: $17,126/yr. A spouse alone must have countable income LESS than: $14,457/yr. A spouse with a dependent must have countable income LESS than: $18,120/yr. Aid & Attendance: A veteran alone must have countable income LESS than: $18,654/yr. A veteran with a spouse must have countable income LESS than: $22,113/yr. A spouse alone must have countable income LESS than: $11,985/yr. A spouse with a dependent must have countable income LESS than: $14,298/yr. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 72

73 Other Links (1/4) Department of Defense. Medicare and Medicaid Services. Social Security Administration. If your active military service occurred From 1957 through 1967, we will add the extra credits to your record when you apply for Social Security benefits. From 1968 through 2001, you do not need to do anything to receive these extra credits. The credits were automatically added to your record. After 2001, there are no special extra earnings credits for military service. Foundation of American Veterans is a nonprofit organization to help Veterans. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. U. S. Department of Labor Veterans Employment and Training Service. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 73

74 Other Links (2/4) United States Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs Homepage veterans.house.gov United States House of Representatives Committee on Veterans Affairs Homepage - Location of Military ID Card offices. Defense Financing and Accounting Service. TRICARE military s health benefits. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 74

75 Other Links (3/4) - Texas Veterans Land Board. - Texas Veterans Commission. TVC Fund for Veterans Assistance Texas Veterans Online. Unofficial military website. Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA). Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 75

76 Other Links (4/4) Military, Veterans, and Patriotic Service Organizations of America website provides list of different organizations that support active and former military members and family members. Association For Service Disabled Veterans. Any Solider Inc. how to unofficially support soldiers Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 76

77 Contact Information Mail: Angelina College Procurement Assistance Center PO Box 1768 Lufkin, TX Location: Angelina College Campus, Community Services Building 3500 South First Street (Highway 59), south side of Lufkin Telephone: (936) Fax: (936) and Website: and Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 77

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80 Texas Veterans Texas Veterans Commission Created by the Fortieth Texas Legislature in 1927 as the Veterans State Service Office to assist veterans by informing them of their rights and applying for entitlements. Renamed the Veterans Affairs Commission in 1947 and again in 1985 as the Texas Veterans Commission. It has the mission to guarantee that Texas Veterans and their families receive all the rights and entitlements provided for veterans by law. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 80

81 Benefits for Texas Veterans (1/3) Claims Representation & Counseling TVC has Veteran Service Officers Veteran Employment Services TVC has employment representatives Veterans Education Hazelwood Act Besides GI Bill, 150 credit hours for Veteran and family members Fund for Veterans Assistance Provides funds to organizations that supports Veterans Veterans Preference & Military Service Credit 5 year credit for military service Contract Preferences 20% SDVOSB registered with HUB program and priority if all things equal Free Recording of Discharges Texas Veterans Land Board Loan Programs Land, Housing, and Home Improvement Loans Texas State Veterans Homes Texas State Veterans Cemetery Program Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 81

82 Benefits for Texas Veterans (2/3) Specialty License Plates Parking Placards & Registration of Vehicles for Disabled Veterans 50% or 40% with amputation $3.00 vehicle registration on one vehicle Special Parking Privileges Free Drivers License for Disabled Veterans All Veterans can add Veteran to their license Fishing & Hunting Licenses for Disabled Veterans 60% disability rating No Cost Medical Records Concealed Handgun License Fees Reduced by 50% State Park Admission Free for 60% or higher disability rating Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 82

83 Benefits for Texas Veterans (3/3) Taps for Vouchers Program 6 to 12 th graders can play Taps and receive $25 voucher for higher education. No limit to the number of Vouchers. Property Tax Exemptions Based on Disability Rating 100% Disability Ratings pay no property tax Disability Rating At Least: But less than: Tax Exemption 10% through 30% First $ 5,000 of appraised value 31% through 50% First $ 7,500 of appraised value 51% through 70% First $ 10,000 of appraised value 71% or 100% First $ 12,000 of appraised value Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 83

84 Texas Veterans Texas Veterans Land Board Since the days of the Texas Republic, Texas has given its veterans land in recognition of their military service. In the days of Sam Houston, that debt for service was paid to Texas veterans in grants of land. Following World War II, this tradition was continued with the creation of the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) in 1946 to administer a new program which would provide low-interest, long-term loans to Texas veterans for the purchase of land. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 84

85 Texas Veterans Texas Veterans Land Board (TVLB) TVLB Direct Loan - $325,000 for purchase of a home. TVLB Home Improvement Program - $25,000 to make substantial repairs to primary residence. TVLB Land Program - $80,000 for the purchase of a tract of land. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 85

86 Texas Veterans Texas State Veterans Home (SVH) Program Texas established a veterans home in Austin in 1887 for its brave and deserving Civil War heroes. This home was closed and the property sold in the early 1960s. In 1997, the 75th Texas Legislature authorized construction of four veterans homes in Texas. Locations Amarillo, Big Spring, Bonham, El Paso, Floresville, McAllen, Temple, and Tyler (Fall 2011). Services skilled nursing facilities, designed to serve qualified Texas veterans, their spouses, or Gold Star Parents. Costs - $52.47 up to $ per day VA, Medicare, Medicaid can offset costs Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 86

87 Texas Veterans Texas State Veterans Cemetery (TSVC) Program In the November 2001 statewide elections, voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 7, a constitutional amendment that authorized the creation of up to seven state cemeteries for veterans and their eligible dependents. Locations Abilene, Corpus Christi, Killeen and Mission. (VA National Cemeteries Fort Bliss, Fort Sam Houston, Dallas, and Houston). Eligibility and Benefits same as VA National Cemeteries. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 87

88 Texas Veterans Military / Veteran Special License Plates Air Force Cross - Free Airborne Parachutists Reg Fees + $10.00 Armed Forces Reserve - Reg Fees Army Distinguished Service Cross - Free Congressional Medal of Honor - Free Desert Storm Veteran Reg Fees Disabled Veteran - $3.00 Distinguished Flying Cross Medal Free Enduring Freedom Veterans Reg Fees Former Prisoner of War - $3.00 Gold Star Reg Fees + $10.00 Korea Veteran Reg Fees Legion of Merit Free Marine Corps League Reg Fees Navy Cross - Free Operation Iraqi Freedom Reg Fees Pearl Harbor Survivor - $3.00 Purple Heart Recipient - $3.00 Silver Star - Free Texas Guard - Reg Fees Texas Wing Civil Air Patrol Reg Fees U.S. Air Force Reg Fees U.S. Army Reg Fees U.S. Coast Guard Reg Fees U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Reg Fees U.S. Marine Corps Reg Fees U.S. Navy Reg Fees Vietnam Veteran Reg Fees World War II Veteran Reg Fees U.S. Military Academies Reg Fees Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 88

89 Texas Veterans Texas Veterans Portal As a military veteran, you and your family are entitled to benefits earned by virtue of your military service. The purpose of this site is to bring together veteran's benefit and assistance resource information for you as a Texas veteran and your family. Veteran's benefit information has been collected from Federal and State agencies to bring together a comprehensive collection of links to provide you with the latest veteran's benefit information. The website contains information to assist you and your family in buying a home or land, receiving education benefits, finding a job, finding health care resources, and much more. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 89

90 Texas Veterans Military Veteran Peer Network The Military Veteran Peer Network is an affiliation of Service Members, Veterans and Family Members dedicated to establish camaraderie and trust with each other, identifying and vetting community resources and, collectively, contributing to the communities where we live. The Military Veteran Peer Network (MVPN) is a collaborative program between the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) and Texas Local Mental Health Authorities (LMHAs). DSHS began developing mental health services for veterans and their families in 2009 using peer-to-peer counseling services. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 90

91 Texas Veterans ements/ shtml Texas Veterans App This app gives U.S. military veterans free, direct access to the national Veterans Crisis Line and Hotline for Women Veterans, as well as the Texas Military Veteran Peer Network and Texas Veterans Portal. The Connect with Texas Veterans option provides a number for users to call and request help with connecting to other veterans within their geographical area of Texas. Updated: 9 April 2015 Slide 91