How to Prove Veteran Status

This may seem like an obvious answer, but the decision on whether a person is a veteran or not is key to receiving appropriate benefits. In order to be eligible for VA disability compensation a person must meet the criteria for being a veteran. A Veteran is a person who served in the active military, naval or air service, and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. Active service includes active duty, any period of active duty for training during which a person is disabled or dies from a disease or injury incurred or aggravated in the line of duty. Often veterans are challenged in their ability to receive benefits for having a “bad” discharge, which means they were discharged under conditions other than honorable. There are ways to overcome this character of discharge issue that we will discuss in a separate post, but for now not having a “good” discharge can result in a bar to any benefits from the VA. If you are faced with concerns over your veteran status contact the Vet Defender and schedule an appointment. You can schedule an appointment by clicking the following link: Schedule an Appointment.