Veterans Benefits Newsletter

March 2021

Celebrating Women Who Served

In celebration of Women's History Month, we honor the women who have served our nation and encourage all women Veterans and service members to take advantage of the benefits available to them. We at the Veterans Benefits Administration are committed to providing you with the benefits and services you have earned and deserve.

Protect Your VA Benefits

The Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP) offers safe, reliable, and inexpensive ways to receive and manage your VA monetary benefits. With VBBP, you can have your benefits deposited directly into your bank or credit union account instead of receiving a pre-paid debit card or paper check. Learn more and see if VBBP is right for you!

File a Claim Before Military Discharge

If you have an illness or injury that was caused or worsened by your active-duty service, you can apply for the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program 90 to 180 days before your discharge from the active duty. BDD can help speed up your claim decision process to get your benefits sooner!

GI Bill Benefits During COVID-19

Whether you are beginning your GI Bill journey, currently taking classes, or planning for your future, we understand the impact COVID-19 may have on your life. Learn about the resources and guidelines in place to protect your GI Bill benefits during this time.

Direct Loans for Native Americans

If you or your spouse are a Native American Veteran seeking to buy, build, or improve a home on Federal Trust Land, you may be eligible for VA's reusable Native American Direct Loan (NADL) benefit. Members of Tribes that have agreements with VA may qualify for $0 down payments, limited closing costs, and more. You may also be eligible for a loan to refinance an existing NADL to reduce your interest rate. Find out if you qualify for a NADL!

Planning Your Legacy

VA offers a Survivors and Burial Benefits Kit to assist Veterans and their families with pre-need planning. The kit includes a guide through possible end-of-life and survivors’ benefits eligibility and makes it easy to keep your personal information all in one place for you and your loved ones. Learn what VA benefits are offered and how to apply for them.

Honoring Our Vietnam Veterans

Did you know that Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) advocates exclusively for Vietnam-era Veterans and their families? With over 85,000 members, VVA provides a community of fellowship for people with shared experiences, needs, and hopes for the future. March 29 is National Vietnam War Veterans Day. To honor the men and women who served in Vietnam, you can join one of more than 650 chapters for fellowship, volunteer opportunities, and community service. You can also simply be a proud member of VVA, knowing that your membership helps VVA support programs and services for Veterans and their families.