Most people are aware of the most obvious VA benefits – things like healthcare and education. However, this program offers many other benefits that may be less obvious to the average veteran. If you have served our nation in the military, it always makes sense to take full advantage of everything the government offers you in return for your service. These hidden VA benefits could have a real effect on the quality of your life, and they may depend on your unique circumstances – including your location. It may help to discuss the less obvious benefits of VA alongside an experienced VA benefits lawyer.
Various Discounts
One of the most understated VA benefits is the discounts you will enjoy as a veteran. When making virtually any purchase, you should ask whether the company offers discounts for veterans. These discounts can be quite significant, and they can help with rising living costs.
For example, Staples offers a ten percent discount to veterans for most items. You can also find discounts at theme parks and many other establishments throughout the entire nation. Another major benefit is free parking, and you may be able to park without paying in a number of locations with your veteran status. However, it is important to put proper markings on your vehicle to enjoy these benefits (such as veteran plates and special parking passes).
Access to the Entire VA Healthcare Network
Many veteran patients assume that the VA network only includes healthcare providers in their home state. However, the VA network encompasses the entire nation. While the general population might be limited to providers in a much smaller network, you could potentially travel to an entirely different state for certain medical treatments.
For example, there might be a world-class spinal surgeon in California. If you live in Florida, you may be able to book your surgery with this surgeon with relative ease through VA healthcare. This logic applies to many other types of experimental and innovative treatments only found in other states.
Pregnant Veteran Benefits
The VA program recognizes that many of its service members may eventually become pregnant. If you are planning to get pregnant or you are already pregnant, you might want to take advantage of the various VA healthcare benefits specifically geared toward pregnant people. This may make your pregnancy much easier and more affordable than you realize.
Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses
Florida offers veterans free hunting and fishing licenses. This is a major benefit for many veterans who like to fish or hunt for their own food. Veterans tend to enjoy hunting, and a free license could provide years of recreation and sustenance. Note that in many other states, veterans still have to pay for their hunting and fishing licenses at a discounted price.
VA Benefits for Aging in Place
If you plan to age in place, you should explore the various VA benefits associated with your planned retirement. These benefits may make it easier to remain in the comfort of your own home for longer periods without moving to a nursing home. This is a major priority for most retirees in Florida, and VA healthcare benefits can make a real difference.
Specific benefits include nursing care, physical therapy, and assistance with daily tasks. Adult Day Health Care is also quite popular among retired veterans, and it provides an opportunity to socialize with other veterans like you. During these daycare sessions, you can participate in activities, enjoy health services, and enjoy your twilight years to the fullest.
Free College for Purple Hearts Recipients
While many are familiar with the various educational VA benefits, some might be unaware of the specific benefits offered to Purple Heart recipients in Florida. The Sunshine State essentially pays for your entire undergraduate degree if you have received the Purple Heart (or an award superior in precedence). Note that you do not necessarily need to attend a community college or state university to enjoy this benefit. You can also attend more practical training, perhaps while earning your trade certificate.
You should also know that your children may qualify for educational VA benefits even if you neglect to take advantage of them. This could provide your children with an excellent education without excessive costs for your family. College tuition has reached extremely high levels across the nation, and it always makes sense to get help when saving for this expense.
Access to Commissary and Exchanges
Service members often shop at the commissary and exchange, which provides low-cost food, clothing, and other items. This is essentially a retail store set up by the military. Although it operates for a profit, these profits generally go toward supporting the military community.
Many veterans do not realize that they can continue to access commissaries and exchanges even after they retire from military service. Like many other hidden VA benefits, access to a local commissary can help address the rising cost of living in many states – including Florida.
How to Fight for Your VA Benefits
If you are experiencing any challenges in accessing your VA benefits, you have every right to push back. If the VA itself seems unresponsive or refuses to help you access these benefits, you can take your complaints to the VA White House Complaint Line. You might also consider working alongside a VA benefits lawyer to ensure access to the most important benefits.
Can a VA Benefits Lawyer Help Me?
If you want to get the most out of the VA program, consult with an experienced veterans benefits lawyer. We understand how difficult it can be to navigate this program, and they can guide you toward positive outcomes. While online research can provide a basic overview of VA benefits, you may need to consider your own unique circumstances to get the most out of this program. Schedule a consultation with the Elderly Care Law Firm today, discuss your priorities, and pursue the most appropriate benefits with confidence.
