Dealing with the VA or any federal government organization can have its moments. There are rules, regulations, updates, forms, certified documents, wet signatures, DD-214s, evidence and a myriad of other hoops you have to jump through. Oh, wet signatures you ask. They are original signatures. Not copies, reproductions or electronic signatures.
When becoming involved with the VA, an eBenefits account is a good way to keep track of a multitude of things. Any veteran can create an eBenefits account. If you file a claim for disabilities or pension, you can follow the progress of your claim. You can add evidence to your claim. You can add or subtract dependents to your claim.
When you claim is approved, you can track your monthly payments. Which are tax free by the way. Change your address, update your bank account information, print out an VA Award letter (a letter from the VA stating what percentage you have been awarded depending your disability). If you want to apply for a VA mortgage, you need a COE (certificate of eligibility) to go with your application. Print it from eBenefits.
Want to use your GI Bill to go to school? The steps and forms are available here. How about batteries for hearing aids or set up an appointment for eyeglasses.
How about health care? Besides my family doctor, I have been going to the VA for healthcare for about three years. I can check my appointments, ask for prescription refills, read notes from my VA doctor's visits and print out a complete list of my blood tests. I give my family doctor a copy of all this information.
Go to www.ebenefits.va.gov <http://www.ebenefits.va.gov> to get started. The home page will give a nice rundown of all the information you can access. Click the Register button and you are asked a series of questions.
Select registration method:
I have a Common Access Card (CAC) with accessible card reader.
I have a Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) myPay account.
None of the above conditions apply, however at least one of the following conditions is true:
I am a Veteran
I am a Dependent of a Veteran
I am a Survivor of a Veteran
I am registered in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS)
Just follow the prompts and account you too can have your very own eBenefits account. It is well worth the time and effort.
For questions or information contact me at 765-529-4305 or jguglielmi@henryco.net. My office hours are 7 am till noon, Tuesdaythrough Friday room 114 in the old Henry County Courthouse.
