VA Benefits Bulletin

February 2019

Appeals Modernization Act Goes into Effect in February

The Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act of 2017 is effective February 19, 2019. Under the new law, any Veteran who receives an initial VA claim decision after February 2019 can choose from three, easy-to-understand review choices. All three choices provide Veterans with faster resolution of disagreements with VA decisions.

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Transitioning soon? File for your benefits now!

If you have an illness or injury that you believe was caused or made worse by your active duty service, you can file a claim for disability benefits 180 to 90 days before you leave the military. This may help speed up the claim decision process so you can get your benefits sooner. Learn More

Learn more about the Military to Civilian Transition

Every year, approximately 200,000 men and women leave the military to return to civilian life. This transition occurs within a dynamic network of relationships, programs, services, and benefits. VBA--and the Under Secretary for Benefits, Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D. and Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Benefits, Margarita Devlin--are proud to support VBA’s transition assistance services as outlined in this 2018 report. Read the Report

What is Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment?

The Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment program is available to help transitioning Service members and Veterans who have service-connected disabilities become suitably employed, maintain employment, or achieve independence in daily living. A VA vocational rehabilitation counselor will determine eligibility for services and work with you in achieving employment or independent living goals. Learn More

ICYMI: VBA’s Latest Progress and Results Webcast is Now Available on YouTube

On January 31, VA Under Secretary for Benefits, Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D., held his quarterly Progress and Results Webcast. During the presentation, Dr. Lawrence discussed VBA’s Fiscal Year 2019 progress and took questions from Disabled American Veterans and the Wounded Warrior Project.

Dr. Lawrence was joined by Dave McLenachen, Executive Director of the Appeals Management Office, and Charmain Bogue, Acting Executive Director of Education Service, who shared information about appeals modernization and GI Bill updates.

Watch the Webcast

Stay up to date on Veteran employment information

Get stats delivered directly to your inbox by subscribing to the VETS monthly Veteran Employment Update or view the latest Veteran unemployment numbers.