As veterans, you've given so much in service to our country, and you deserve to know about all the benefits available to you. In this article, we highlight lesser-known benefits available to veterans. Have you accessed these benefits yet?

Flagship Health is committed to ensuring that veterans like you are aware of the numerous benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), state-specific programs, and other organizations. That's why we're thrilled to invite all veterans to our Rock, White, and Blue event – a free resource fair where a bevy of experts will be available to provide advice and resources specifically for veterans. Come for the insights, and enjoy food and camaraderie with your fellow veterans! Reserve your spot on Eventbrite.

🪖VA Benefits

1. Compensation for Service-Connected Conditions
   You may be entitled to monetary compensation if you have a condition connected to your military service. The compensation rate varies based on the severity of the condition, ranging from 10% to 100%.
   
   
2. Filing Claims Assistance from an Accredited Veteran Service Officer (VSO)
   Navigating the claims process can be daunting. Accredited VSOs provide free assistance to veterans, ensuring your claims are filed accurately and efficiently.
   
   
3. Compensation and VA Health Care for Exposure to Toxic Chemicals
   Veterans exposed to toxic substances such as Agent Orange or burn pits are eligible for compensation and health care benefits. This includes not only the veterans themselves but also children with birth defects resulting from a service member's exposure to Agent Orange.
   
   
4. VA Life Insurance for Service-Connected Conditions
   Veterans with service-connected conditions can secure life insurance through the VA, providing peace of mind for you and your family.
   
   
5. Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
   This benefit supports the dependents (spouse, children, and parents) of deceased veterans who had service-connected conditions. It offers financial support to help them through their loss.
   
   
6. Burial Allowance for Surviving Spouse
   The VA provides a burial allowance to help cover the cost of a veteran's funeral and burial, easing the financial burden on the surviving spouse.
   
   
7. Education and Training for Dependents
   Dependents of deceased veterans with service-connected conditions can have their education and training paid for by the VA, ensuring they have the opportunities to build a secure future.
   
   
8. VA Home Loan
   Both veterans and their surviving spouses are eligible for VA home loans, which offer competitive interest rates and favorable terms to help you secure housing.
   
   
9. Aid and Attendance
   Veterans and surviving spouses who require assistance with daily living activities are entitled to this benefit, ensuring they receive the necessary care and support.

🦅Social Security Benefits

Special Extra Earnings Credit
Veterans who served on active duty or active duty for training between 1957-1977 and 1978-2001 may be eligible for additional earnings credits from Social Security. Contact the Social Security Administration for more details on this benefit.

★Texas State Benefits

For Flagship members in Texas, here are state benefits available to veterans:

1. Property Tax Exemption
   Veterans with 100% service-connected conditions are eligible for a property tax exemption, providing significant financial relief.
   
   
2. DMV Plates (DV)
   Veterans with service-connected conditions (50% or higher VA rating) and their surviving spouses are eligible for special DMV plates, making it easier to access veteran-specific services and benefits.
   
   
3. Texas State Veterans Homes
   These homes provide comfortable and supportive living environments for veterans and their spouses, ensuring they receive the care they need.
   
   
4. Free Driver's License
   Texas offers a free driver's license to veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 60% or more.
   
   
5. Veterans Treatment Courts
   These specialized courts offer support and rehabilitation instead of incarceration for veterans involved in the criminal justice system, focusing on treatment for substance abuse, mental health issues, and other underlying problems.
   
   
6. State Employment Preferences
   Veterans receive preference in state hiring and retention during reductions in force. Spouses and surviving spouses may also be eligible for these preferences.

🌄Colorado State Benefits

For Flagship members in Colorado, here are state benefits available to veterans:

1. Property Tax Exemption
   Veterans with a 100% permanent disability rating are eligible for a property tax exemption on the first $200,000 of the actual value of their primary residence. This benefit extends to the surviving spouse of a veteran who previously qualified.
   
   
2. Disabled Veteran License Plates
   Veterans with a 50% or greater service-connected disability rating can obtain Disabled Veteran license plates for their vehicles, which provide free parking at meters and in disabled parking spaces.
   
   
3. Colorado State Veterans Homes
   Colorado offers state veterans homes that provide long-term care, assisted living, and skilled nursing care for veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star parents.
   
   
4. Education Benefits
   The College Opportunity Fund provides tuition assistance for Colorado veterans. Additionally, the state offers free tuition for dependents of POWs, MIAs, and deceased or disabled veterans at state-supported institutions of higher learning.
   
   
5. Employment Assistance
   The state provides employment assistance programs specifically designed for veterans, including priority hiring for state jobs and career counseling services.
   
   
6. Fishing and Hunting Licenses
   Colorado offers free lifetime fishing and small game hunting licenses for veterans with a 60% or greater service-connected disability.
   
   
7. State Park Admission
   Veterans with a 60% or greater disability rating receive free admission to Colorado state parks.

🇺🇲You Served, You Deserve

Your service and sacrifices to this country are deeply appreciated, and it's essential that you take full advantage of the benefits that you deserve. Whether through the VA, state programs, or other organizations, there are numerous resources designed to support you and your family.

For more information and assistance with accessing these benefits, reach out to your local VA office or an accredited Veteran Service Officer. Flagship Health is here to support you in every step of your journey. Thank you for your service.🙏