Veterans Benefits Newsletter

VA Benefits: Blue Water Navy | Debt Management | Career Counseling

Veterans Benefits Newsletter

January 2021

Veteran watching the webcast on his tablet

Tune into Our Upcoming Webcast

Join Under Secretary for Benefits, Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D., for VBA's upcoming webcast on Jan. 14, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. ET. Dr. Lawrence will be sharing our accomplishments and challenges from the first quarter of 2021. Register online to receive a reminder!

Veteran couple reading the interest rate reduction refinance loan

Reduce Your Mortgage Interest Rate

Are you looking to refinance your current mortgage? VA's interest rate reduction refinance loan (IRRRL) may be able to help. We recommend a personal financial health assessment to determine if refinancing your current mortgage is right for you. Learn if you're eligible and how to apply.

Benefits for Blue Water Navy Veterans

Did you know? VA provides benefits to Blue Water Navy Veterans who served as far as 12 nautical miles from the shore of the Republic of Vietnam or in the Korean Demilitarized Zone and who have health conditions associated with herbicide exposure, such as Agent Orange.

Military parents talking with VA Regional Office employee

DIC for Military Families

If you’re the surviving spouse, child, or parent of a service member or Veteran who died from a service-related injury or illness, you may be eligible for VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), a tax-free monthly financial benefit. Learn about DIC eligibility criteria!

VA Career Counseling

VA’s Personalized Career Planning and Guidance program, also called Chapter 36 benefits, can help guide your career and ensure the most effective use of your VA benefits. Learn how you can apply for VA career counseling services online.

Young Veteran working on his monthly budget

Debt Payments Resume

To ease financial difficulties during the pandemic, VA’s Debt Management Center suspended collections on debts established after April 3, 2020. Effective Jan. 1, 2021, benefit debt payments have resumed. If you have questions or difficulties making payments, please submit your request online!

GI Bill Training Benefits

Did you know you could use your GI Bill benefits for a non-degree school? Programs, like HVAC repair or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training, can help you jump start your career in a new industry. Learn how to use the GI Bill to pay for specific training programs!

AUSA Supports Military Families

The Association of the United States Army (AUSA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving Veterans, service members, and their families. AUSA's Family Readiness Directorate provides Army families with the support they need to help them manage the challenges of military life. From financial resources to employment opportunities, learn how AUSA can support you!