Monthly Newsletter
Veterans Benefits Administration sent this bulletin at 12/02/2021 10:01 AM EST
Veterans Benefits Newsletter
December 2021
Your VA Benefits Annual Increase
As the cost of living goes up, VA ensures your benefit rates do too. As of December 1, all compensation benefits rates increased by 6% to match adjustments made to Social Security benefits. If you receive VA compensation benefits, take a look at your new rates.
COVID-19 Provision to Expire Soon
On December 21, the COVID-19 legislation permitting GI Bill students to receive a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) at the resident rate (in person) while taking approved online courses will end. Learn how your benefits will be impacted and what you can do.
Presumptive Period Extends for Veterans
VA has extended the presumptive period for qualifying chronic disabilities, such as fibromyalgia, in Gulf War Veterans rated 10% or more resulting from undiagnosed illnesses to December 31, 2026. Learn more about the extension and qualifying conditions.
Solid Start is Calling
Have you taken the call from VA Solid Start yet? If so, you are one of the more than 140,000 newly separated service members who have been contacted by the program since its launch in 2019. Take the call so you can better understand the benefits available to you and get a Solid Start in your civilian life.
Find Military Discounts this Holiday Season
Save money this holiday season with a variety of discounts. Enjoy deals on clothing, electronics, fitness, food, and more—all available to Veterans, service members, as well as their families and caregivers. Check out these year-round discounts before your next purchase.
Train for a Post-COVID-19 Career with VRRAP
Did you lose your job due to the COVID-19 pandemic? The Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program (VRRAP) provides Veterans with education and training for high-demand jobs based on Post-9/11 GI Bill rates. Apply by December 11 to receive up to 12 months of benefits.
Wreaths Across America
On Saturday, December 18, Wreaths Across America will remember and honor our fallen heroes by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 2,500 locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea, and abroad. Learn how you can sponsor a wreath or volunteer online.
Enhance Your Pension with Aid and Attendance
Did you know that VA’s Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits can boost your monthly pension payments? If you need help with daily activities, or if you are housebound, you may qualify for an increased VA pension to help pay for in-home care, assisted living, or a nursing home.
Free Bystander Intervention Training
VA’s new Bystander Intervention Training for Veterans provides tools and techniques on how to respond if you witness harassment or sexual assault. The free online training takes about 30 minutes to complete. All are invited to take this training to help VA maintain a safe environment.
TREA: The Voice of the Enlisted
As a powerful voice for retired enlisted personnel from all branches of service, The Retired Enlisted Association (TREA) fights every day in Washington, DC, to protect your earned benefits. One of their initiatives is The VOICE, a bi-monthly magazine that provides members with an in-depth look at chapter activities, legislative updates, and committee news. Check out recent editions online and become a member to stay in the loop.
Tune into the Latest VA Benefits News
Join Dr. Aaron Lee, Executive Director, Human Capital Services, for the latest episode of VA Benefits News!
Connect With Us
Update your password or email address on your subscriber preferences page or unsubscribe at any time. You will need to use your email address to log in. For questions or problems with the subscription service, visit subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com.
