#1: Disability
If you have a service-connected disability or if you are trying to file for a service-connected disability, this portal is vital. The site goes in-depth about eligibility requirements, guides you through filing a new claim, and allows you to manage your current benefits. They provide step-by-step instructions to help you navigate the process. It may seem straightforward, however, only to a certain extent.
Although eBenefits is excellent for obtaining resources, learning about eligibility, and checking your VA pay history, it is not so great when a high level of expertise is required to ensure you receive the maximum amount of compensation.
The VA is like an insurance company. If they can find any way to give you the least amount of compensation, they will, even if they know you deserve more.
It’s unfortunate but an ugly reality for thousands of veterans. Many might think filing a claim is easy. However, the more complex your situation is, such as filing secondary claims, the greater the margin is for potential error. A simple error or lack of evidence can result in an unfair rating. This can affect your financial compensation by hundreds of thousands of dollars over a lifetime.
#2: Health Care
Veterans with service-connected disabilities are given the highest priority for VA care. If you are interested in applying for health care benefits, you can do so through eBenefits.
Once you are in the VA system, you can set annual appointments for vision and dental using My HealtheVet. You can also view VA lab and test results, order hearing aid batteries, and refill your prescriptions. Additionally, the portal will allow you to pay your VA co-pay bill. Should you have any questions, the site offers secure messaging to communicate privately with your VA health care professionals.
#3: Education
Education benefits are important to most Veterans and their families, especially as they transition from military service to civilian life. Veterans can apply for education benefits, adjust their current benefits if they wish to transfer schools, or choose to take a break.
Within eBenefits, you can learn about GI Bill benefits and compare them by the school. Using this tool helps you decide if you wish to take courses in person or online (or a combination of both). From there, you can add your preferences for on-the-job training or apprenticeships with employers, VET TEC training providers, or traditional schools. Then, narrow your list by location and let the computer do the work for you.
Additionally, you can change your address, view your VA payment history, check how much GI Bill eligibility you have left to use, and much more.
#4: Records
Accessing some of these records will be faster than others. Still, by using your “Premium” account, you can get your VA medical records, download copies of your benefit letters, or request a copy of your military records, such as your DD214. Your account is also where you’ll take care of general housekeeping tasks, such as changing your address or other personal information.