Veterans Benefits Newsletter | January 2025

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Veterans Benefits Newsletter

January 2025

The 2025 Veterans disability compensation rates are in! Starting Jan. 1, 2025, all compensation benefit rates have increased by 2.5% to match adjustments made to Social Security benefits. This increase impacts disability benefits, clothing allowance, dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC), as well as other VA assistance programs.

Rudisill Decision Update:
What does it mean for you?

Through a relatively recent change in how qualifying periods of military service impact benefits earned, individuals may now be eligible for expanded VA education and training benefits. If you served at least two periods of service—one that qualifies for the Montgomery GI Bill and a second that qualifies for the Post-9/11 GI Bill—you may be able to receive additional GI Bill benefits.

Options to Keep Your Home

While the path to homeownership can be filled with unique challenges, Veterans should know that it’s also paved with opportunities and support from VA. Explore the various options designed to keep you in your home, offering hope and possible solutions for when/if you experience financial hardships. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey—support is just a call away.

Your Claim Exam Questions Answered

After filing a disability claim, you may have some lingering questions about what comes next in the claims process. Many Veterans wonder what will happen at their VA claim exam (also known as a compensation and pension, or C&P exam). To help answer these questions, VA has updated two websites to provide current information on frequently asked questions.

VA History | Congressman Claypool’s “$1 Per Day Pension” Ribbon

In the 1880s, the Grand Army of the Republic launched a lobbying campaign to expand pension benefits for Union Civil War Veterans. Its activism sparked a political fight in Congress that continued off and on for the next 30 years. The ribbon proclaiming support for the “$1 per day pension” is an artifact from the pension battles of the era. The ribbon bears the signature of Horatio Claypool, an Ohio Democrat who was elected to Congress in 1910 on the strength of the “old soldier vote.”

GI Bill Covers Test Fees

Do you need to earn certification or licensure for your desired career? You can use part of your GI Bill entitlement to cover the cost, up to $2,000, of certain tests and certifications to become a licensed or certified professional. Learn more about this benefit and find out what’s approved before you take any tests.

Enroll in Direct Deposit

Do you receive VA benefit payments through a pre-paid debit card or paper check? With the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP) you can enroll in direct deposit, the most effective way to protect your benefits from fraud. Choose from participating regional and/or national banks and credit unions to open a low or no-cost account today.

Prepare for Your Future With VR&E

With the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, Veterans and service members with service-connected disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment. This New Year, choose from five VR&E program tracks to uncover exciting employment opportunities and succeed in their chosen professions.

Together We Make A Difference

Are you interested in filing a VA claim or appeal? American Legion provides expert assistance to Veterans and their families, free of charge. American Legion service officers are trained to help you develop your claim, while also providing referrals and resources on education, employment, and more. For help with your claim, contact the American Legion service officer at their nearest VA regional office.

VA Travel Pay Reimbursement

Find out if you're eligible for travel pay reimbursement through the Beneficiary Travel program. Eligible Veterans are repaid by VA for travel expenses to and from approved health care appointments.

Upcoming Events

Jan. 15 – Wellness Wednesday | Is Your Financial House in Order?

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Veterans Benefits Newsletter | January 2025