Benefits for Michigan Veterans
In 2014, the US Census Bureau stated there were 21.8 million veterans in the United States, which is roughly 6% of the country’s 319.2 million citizens. It is estimated that 1 in 8 veterans nationally fall under the Veteran Administration of Department of Defense definition of having a service-connected disability. According to the State of Michigan, it is estimated 1 in 5 have a disability that has prevented them from maintaining a job at some point in their life.
Whether it was in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, or the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, American servicemen and woman put their lives on the line for their country and are entitled to benefits for injuries they have sustained in their fight for freedom. Other benefits are available to veterans who were not necessarily injured during their time in the service. One such benefit, VA Aid & Attendance pension, is available to veterans who need additional assistance either at home or in an assisted living community.
There are care and financial requirements to receive this pension, but any veteran who served at least 90 days active duty, had an honorable discharge, and served at least one day during war time, should check to see if they are eligible for Aid & Attendance.
If you are a veteran, there are many ways to access your benefits - benefits you’ve earned. In Michigan, you have access to the Michigan Veteran Resource Service Center (MVRSC), which will help you navigate your way through the system and help to address needs specific to the veteran community. If you were in Vietnam and exposed to Agent Orange or in Afghanistan and injured in the line of duty, the MVRSC can help you with health care claims. If you need a copy of your DD-214, they can help obtain that. It is a free service set up by the state to help its veterans and streamline their services.
Veterans and their families can utilize this service by calling the MVRSC at 800-MICH-VET (800-642-4838). Veterans’ service officers (VSO) are available for face-to-face meetings as well.
For more information, check out MichiganVeterans.com to see a list of benefits and to help locate a VSO in your area. The country has set up these benefits to help take care of its soldiers, and if you were injured or need assistance with your benefits, check out the Michigan Veteran Resource Center today.