Category: Veteran Services & Advocacy
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For many Veterans, understanding how the VA determines disability ratings can feel confusing. These ratings directly affect the amount of monthly compensation you receive, so it’s important to know how they work. The VA assigns each service-connected condition a percentage rating between 0% and 100%. This number reflects the severity of your condition and how…
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📌 “Reputation is not what you say about yourself—it’s what others say about you.” When I started this course, I set three personal goals: 1. Strengthen my research skills in public relations. 2. Improve my ability to create effective crisis communication plans. 3. Deepen my understanding of digital reputation management. Looking back, I’m proud to say…
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Getting a VA claim denial can feel frustrating and overwhelming, but it’s not the end of the road. In fact, many Veterans successfully win benefits through appeals or supplemental claims after an initial denial. The first step is to carefully review the VA’s decision letter. This document explains why your claim was denied—whether it’s lack…
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Many veterans hesitate to seek mental health care because they fear stigma, judgment, or negative career impact—especially if they are currently serving in the Guard, Reserves, or in a defense-related civilian job. The truth is, there are confidential pathways and legal protections designed to help you get care while safeguarding your career. 1. Understand Your…
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The VA’s Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program is one of the most innovative tools available to active duty service members nearing separation. Still, many eligible Veterans skip it because of confusion or bad advice. Below, we’re breaking down common myths and giving you the facts you need to make an informed decision. ⚠️ Common…
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When filing for VA benefits, understanding the difference between separation, retirement, and pension is key—especially from the VA’s standpoint. Separation means a service member has left active duty before reaching retirement eligibility. If a Veteran separates due to injury or illness, they may qualify for disability compensation, especially if the condition is service-connected. Retirement, on…
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If you’re a wartime Veteran or the surviving spouse of one, and you’re facing financial challeIf you’re a wartime Veteran or the surviving spouse of one, and you’re facing financial challenges, you might be eligible for a VA Pension. Unlike disability compensation, which is based on service-connected disabilities, the VA Pension is a need-based benefit…
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Separation from the military is already a big step—but one of the most important (and often confusing) parts of that transition is submitting a VA disability claim. Whether you’ve been dealing with chronic back pain, hearing loss, or service-connected mental health challenges, it’s your right to file for compensation and care. Filing correctly—and on time—can…
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This year, Busch Gardens showed its appreciation for veterans by offering free single-day admission to both Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Tampa Bay. The offer was available through the Waves of Honor program and ran until July 7, 2025. Veterans could register for their tickets online by verifying their service through ID.me. Each eligible veteran was…
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Filing a VA claim can feel overwhelming, and even small missteps can delay benefits or lead to denials. As a Veterans Service Officer (VSO), I see patterns in the mistakes veterans commonly make — but the good news is, they’re all avoidable. 1. Not Including Medical EvidenceYour diagnosis and service connection are key. Many claims…