CVSO Office Updates
Hello and HAPPY JULY!
In June, we had the honor of hosting the Traveling Vietnam Tribute wall. The wall is a to-scale model of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC. Hopefully you got a chance to go visit it at Rochesterfest, it was quite impactful and I’m proud our team was part of bringing it to our community! Click on this link to view video footage from KTTC https://www.kttc.com/2025/06/23/watch-live-1-americas-freedom-tribute-wall-procession-soldiers-field/
This month we are covering Survivor Benefits. As always, we welcome you to call us with any questions or comments on any benefits related to you or your family members. Each circumstance is unique to the veteran, and it never hurts to have a second pair of eyes on the claim or questions related to the claim.
Apply for VA Survivor Benefits
VA Survivor benefits and services you may be eligible for after your Veteran loved one has passed.
- Available VA survivor benefits and programs
- Contacts and resources
- Required forms and documents
- How to apply
- Where to get assistance
Checklist for Spouses and Dependents
1. Preparation
- Learn about the types of survivor benefits and services you and your family may be eligible for.
- Collect the following supporting documents:
- Discharge papers (DD214 member-4 or equivalent)
- Copy of the Veteran’s death certificate
- Proof of relationship to the Veteran (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate)
Where can I find a Veteran’s separation documents? You can reach out to our office at 507-328-6355 to see if we have the discharge documents or any other military records on file with our office. Many folks registered their DD214s or discharge paperwork with Olmsted County when they returned home from a deployment.
If we do not have records on file here, we may be able to request them from some of our data base systems. It’s rare that we need to request from the National Archives, but we can assist with this process as well.
If you are tech savvy you may visit https://www.va.gov/records/get-military-service-records Tip: Keep personal file copies before mailing to VA.
2. Application
Submit all required documents, including the death certificate and applicable VA form. The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) suggests the methods below. HOWEVER, if you make an appointment with our office or give us a call - we will assist you with every step of the process, minimizing any confusion. We also ensure that all applications for survivor's benefits are complete before submitting, minimizing errors on the VBAs behalf.
3. Next Steps
- Visit: https://www.va.gov/claim-or-appeal-status to track the status of your claim.
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Respond quickly if the VA asks for more documentation or clarification.
- If approved, you’ll receive access to awarded benefits.
VA Survivor Benefits – What You Need to Know to File a Claim
How would a spouse or dependents know if they are eligible?
Surviving family members can find out by:
What benefits and services are available for surviving family members?
These may include:
Benefits
- Interment in a National Cemetery
- Memorialization and Legacy Programs - Planning a Legacy Booklet (PDF)
- Financial Burial Benefits (VA Form 21P-530)
- Dependency and Indemnity Compensation – DIC (VA Form 21P-534EZ)
- Parents’ DIC (VA Form 21P-535)
- VA Survivors Pension (VA Form 21P-534EZ)
- Dependent’s Educational Assistance (VA Form 22-5490)
- Fry Scholarship
- VA Home Loan Benefits
- Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA)
Services
For more info, visit https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits or call 800-827-1000.
Other Common Questions
As a surviving spouse, am I eligible for health care?
You may qualify for CHAMPVA (Civilian Health and Medical Program of the VA), which provides coverage to eligible family members. CHAMPVA shares the cost of health care with beneficiaries similarly to Medicaid/TRICARE.
Call 800-698-2411 or visit https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/programs/dependents/champva
What’s the difference between DIC and SBP?
Where can I find burial benefits information?
Thank you for reading along and for sticking with us. We are so grateful for each and every one of you. We are honored to do this work for our county’s veterans. THANK YOU!
  Tiffany Canfield
Veteran Services Manager
Veteran Service Office Snapshot
May 2025
Total claims submitted to VA:
- Compensation: 92
- VA Healthcare: 21
- DIC: 1
- Burial: 31
- Survivor’s Pension: 1
- CHAMPVA: 1
- Records Request: 4
- Special Monthly Pension: 0
Points of contact with veterans (office visits, incoming mail, phone calls
returned, emails returned, etc.): 502
Veterans in office: 110
Outreach visits: 0
Total phone calls: 283
Average number of calls per day: 9
Average call length: 3 minutes and 8 seconds
Women Veterans Spotlight
July Mantra:
I am Resilient: I have the power to bounce back from any situation
Happy July, Sisters!
I don’t have much to share this month. To be honest, it’s been busy and crazy and chaotic. I sat for quite a bit trying to figure out what I wanted to place here this month and keep finding that my words and thoughts are falling flat.
So this month, I’m going to hold space for all of us who went through busy, crazy, chaotic, and just be still. Maybe this resonates with you and will inspire you to share your true thoughts and feelings about where you’re at mentally, physically, and emotionally. To sit with your feelings and thoughts and be ok with where they are at this moment.
Let’s launch into July with a renewed sense of purpose. For now, we will simply be.
Photo of my daughter- throwing rocks into Lake Pepin- there is something about this picture that grounds me, and I wanted to share it with you all. Maybe because it reminds me that life can slow down and be as simple as throwing rocks in the water and finding joy in just that. Nature has a way of doing that for me.
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-Tiffany
“You can’t raise the bar without raising a little hell”- so let’s raise some hell, shall we ladies??
Karen's Korner
Volunteer Drivers Needed!!
You can impact someone's day by assisting them with a ride! It's that easy, just give a few minutes of your day to impact the well-being of another individual. Olmsted County Volunteer Services is looking for Volunteer Drivers. Volunteers utilize their own vehicle to transport clients to and from their appointments and will be reimbursed for mileage. This transportation service is a "curb to curb" service and clients need to be ambulatory. You can drive as much, or as little, as you desire - This program is very flexible with days and times that fit your schedule.
Volunteer drivers are crucial to the health and well-being of our communities. Volunteer drivers often provide transportation for vulnerable populations when there are no other transportation options available. These trips often consist of medical appointments, grocery store visits, and general social activities, helping to keep older adults and those with disabilities living happy lives in their communities.
Volunteers must have a reliable vehicle, current driver's license, current auto insurance, submit to a background check, and most importantly - enjoy meeting and helping others!
For more information, contact Diane Tradup @ 507-328-6346 or email diane.tradup@olmstedcounty.gov
Veteran's Health Identification Card
Our office gets numerous calls each month regarding ID’s. One type of ID is the one that you get if you are enrolled in VA healthcare. This is called the Veteran’s Health Identification Card (VHIC).
The VA Clinic, here in Rochester, issues these cards every other month. They are currently booked until the end of this year. The VA Medical Center in Minneapolis issues the cards every day…in Minneapolis. The problem is no one wants to drive to Minneapolis just to get an ID card.
The good news is, if you have an ID.me or Login.gov account, and you are a little bit tech savvy, you can upload your picture and request an ID online. Dustin did this for one of his clients and the card was received within 2 weeks.
If you haven’t already created an ID.me or Login.gov account, go to this website:
Creating An Account For VA.gov | Veterans Affairs
Once you have an account, go to: AccessVA to apply for your Veteran’s Health Identification Card.
If you have any problems with creating an account or applying for your card, please make an appointment with our office and we will be happy to help you out.
ID.me vs Login.gov
ID.me vs. Login.gov: Understanding the Differences
In an increasingly digital world, secure identity verification is crucial for accessing government services online. Two widely used identity verification platforms in the U.S. are ID.me and Login.gov. While both serve similar purposes, they have distinct differences in terms of functionality, security, and usage.
What is ID.me?
ID.me is a private-sector digital identity verification service that partners with government agencies and businesses to authenticate users. It provides multi-factor authentication (MFA) and supports document-based identity verification.
Key Features of ID.me:
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Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Supports SMS, authentication apps, and biometric verification.
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Document-Based Verification: Uses driver’s licenses, passports, and other official documents.
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Live Video Chat Verification: Allows users to verify their identity through a video call with an ID.me representative.
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Exclusive Group Verification: Offers identity verification for specific groups like veterans, students, and healthcare workers for discounts and benefits.
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Partnerships: Used by federal and state agencies, including the IRS, VA, and SSA.
What is Login.gov?
Login.gov is a government-operated authentication system that provides secure and streamlined access to multiple federal services with a single login. It was developed by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and prioritizes privacy and security.
Key Features of Login.gov:
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Single Sign-On (SSO): Enables users to access multiple government services (e.g., USAJobs, FEMA, and SBA) with one account.
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Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Supports SMS codes, authentication apps, and security keys.
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No Commercial Data Sharing: Does not partner with private companies for verification.
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Government-Owned and Operated: Maintains strict privacy controls and does not sell user data.
Key Differences Between ID.me and Login.gov
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ID.me
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Login.gov
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Ownership
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Private company
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U.S. government (GSA)
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Primary Use
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Identity verification and authentication for government and private entities
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Secure login for multiple federal agencies
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Multi-Factor Authentication
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Yes
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Yes
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Document-Based Verification
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Yes (Driver’s license, passport, etc.)
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No
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Live Video Chat Verification
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Yes
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No
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Data Sharing with Third Parties
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Yes (with user consent)
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No
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Used By
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IRS, VA, SSA, state agencies, private businesses
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USAJobs, FEMA, SBA, federal agencies
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Which One Should You Use?
- If you need to verify your identity for agencies like the IRS or VA, you may need to use ID.me due to its document-based verification process.
- If you require secure login access to multiple federal agencies without additional verification steps, Login.gov is the preferred choice.
Both ID.me and Login.gov play essential roles in securing access to online government services. While ID.me provides advanced identity verification features, including document-based verification and video chat, Login.gov offers a simpler, government-managed authentication system focused on privacy and ease of access. Choosing the right platform depends on the services you need and the level of identity verification required.
Warriors & Walleyes Outdoors
Warriors & Walleyes Outdoors is a wonderful organization that offers veterans and their guests guided hunting and fishing trips. With tremendous support from experienced guides, veterans who attend these events create fantastic memories.
LOW Veterans Fishing Event
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Dates: July 24 - 27, 2025
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Nominations for 2026: Start in late July
Cast & Blast
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Dates: October 17 - 19, 2025
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Nominations: Online from April 28, 2025, to July 20, 2025
Veteran's Supper
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Location: Wood Lake Community Center 88 2nd Ave W, Wood Lake, MN 56297
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Date: November 8, 2025
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Note: Veterans eat free
New Mexico Elk Hunt
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Dates: November 17 - 21, 2025
Muzzle Loader Deer Hunt
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Location: Appleton, MN
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Dates: December 3 - 7, 2025
Nominations for the Cast & Blast event in October are currently open on our website. Visit www.warriorsandwalleyes.org and look under the sign-up drop-down menu. We will draw names in early August to send out invitations. For more information email us at teamvet@warriorsandwalleyes.org.
We have a few extra spots for those interested in fishing both days, but we can only take 10 veterans hunting each day. The first 20 drawn will be invited for both hunting and fishing. If you are interested in fishing both days, please indicate this at the bottom of your nomination form. We will draw additional names to fill these spots from the remaining nominations.
Ironwood Springs Receives Grant
Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch is excited to share a powerful opportunity and hopes you’ll help spread the word! Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch is honored to announce that we have received a competitive SOT grant from the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs to support our Operation Welcome Home program for 2025. This funding allows them to offer a wide range of NO COST day and overnight retreats for veterans and their families.
They kindly ask that you share this opportunity with veterans and their families in your network. Below is a Promotional Flyer that you are welcome to share. These retreats offer a chance to reconnect, heal, and create lasting memories—all in a supportive and peaceful setting.
Who’s Eligible?
- Veterans who have met the minimum active-duty service requirement
- Spouses, domestic partners, and dependent children of veterans or current service members
Documentation Required
- Veterans: Will need to upload their DD214 and proof of Minnesota residency within 7 days of registering
- Each participant will be assigned an ID number for communication
with the MDVA
Retreats & Family Programs
Participants will be able to choose from several unique and enriching day or overnight experiences designed to bring families together, provide rest and encouragement, and foster connection with others who’ve shared similar journeys. A flyer is attached describing these experiences.
We’re deeply grateful for your help in connecting veterans and their families to this life-giving opportunity. If you or someone you know is eligible, we hope you’ll encourage them to register soon. Spaces are limited, and we’d love to see as many veteran families as possible take part in this special program.
SkillBridge Opportunity with Mayo Clinic
SkillBridge is an internship program for active-duty service members currently preparing to transition to the civilian workforce in the next 8 - 12 months. Mayo Clinic, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense, offers these internships in a variety of roles.
Internships Provide
- Career skills training and hands-on experience
- An understanding of Mayo Clinic’s workplace culture and how it’s mission and values align with military values
- Career pathways that enable informed decisions
- Experience onboarding and integrating into the civilian workforce by partnering with a Mayo Clinic veteran employee as your mentor
Mayo Clinic offers SkillBridge internships at our large medical centers in Minnesota, Arizona and Florida. View opportunities online and apply at: https://jobs.mayoclinic.org/skillbridge
Virtual Information Sessions:
There will be a virtual open house to learn more and ask question(s) not answered on the DoD website or here.
- Second Wednesday of each month from 1p-2p ET / 12p-1p CT
- Register here Zoom link//
View FAQs to ensure a Mayo Clinic SkillBridge internship opportunity is the right fit for you.
Mayo Clinic has been recognized as the best hospital in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for 2022-2023. They offer a highly competitive compensation package and exceptional benefits. At Mayo Clinic, you'll discover a culture of teamwork, professionalism, mutual respect, and most importantly, a life-changing career.
Educational Benefits
You may be Eligible for Additional USDVA Educational Benefits!
On April 16, 2024, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that Veterans who served at least two periods of service - one that qualifies for the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) and another that qualifies for the Post-9/11 GI Bill (PGIB) - may be able to receive additional GI Bill benefits.
Am I eligible for additional benefits? If so, what should I do?
If you have previously applied to use VA education benefits, you may be eligible for additional benefits, if:
- You completed more than one eligible period of service, and
- You waived all or part of your MGIB benefits so you could use PGIB benefits.
If you have questions, please reach out to an MDVA Veterans Education Regional Coordinator.
SOUTHEAST REGION:
East Coordinator: Mark Larsen
mark.larsen@state.mn.us
507-779-9375
West Coordinator: David Schrader
david.schrader@state.mn.us
507-389-5726
Rolling Hills Transit
SEMCAC is proud to announce a NEW service, honoring all those who serve. SEMCAC recently added a new bus to their fleet and would like to offer FREE rides to mobility challenged disabled veterans.
The bus will be operating out of Stewartville but will be covering their five county service area.
We asked Bill Spitzer, SEMCAC’s Director of Transportation, a few questions about their program and here are his replies:
- How long will Rolling Hills be offering free transportation? There is no end date planned.
- How do veterans schedule a ride? Call the dispatch center (507) 634-4340
- Where will you transport veterans to (examples: medical appointments, C&P exams, the grocery store, etc…)? Any of those
- What do you need in order to prove veteran status? A VA/government issued ID (such as a Veterans Health Identification Card, military ID card, driver’s license denoting veteran status or DD214)
- When you say ‘disabled’, do you mean physically or mentally as well? This service would be for ‘mobility challenged’ veterans. At this time we do not have the capacity to offer to all veterans.
JOBS
Local Service Organization Meetings
For a full list of local organizations and meetings, please click on the blue button.
"To promote the interests and welfare of veterans, their dependents and survivors and to enhance their quality of life through counseling, claims assistance, education, advocacy and special projects."
2100 Campus Dr. SE, Suite 200
Rochester, MN 55904
507-328-6355
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