Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cabinet-level federal agency committed to serving the needs of veterans and their families. It delivers a wide range of services including healthcare, disability compensation, education, home loans, life insurance, and burial benefits. With nearly 9 million veterans served annually, the VA operates through three main administrations: the Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefits Administration, and National Cemetery Administration. Understanding how the VA coordinates with the Pentagon helps veterans access these vital resources.

Health Care and Support for Veterans

The VA oversees the largest integrated health care system in the country, with over 170 medical centers and 1,250 clinics offering a full spectrum of medical services. Veterans with service-related injuries can learn more about wounded warrior care and the collaboration between DoD and VA to ensure comprehensive support and rehabilitation.

Education, Career Transition, and Financial Benefits

As veterans transition to civilian life, the VA offers education benefits such as the GI Bill, detailed in this guide to veteran education benefits. Career resources include the DoD Transition Assistance Program, DoD SkillBridge, and USMAP. Financial protections include retirement, final pay, Social Security benefits, and life insurance options such as SGLI and VGLI as well as Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI).

Burial and Memorial Services

Honoring veterans extends beyond life with dignified burial and memorial benefits at national cemeteries. Resources cover military burial benefits, military funeral honors, and Arlington Cemetery eligibility. Families can also access guidance on locating military service records and navigating current challenges facing the VA.