While serving in the Armed Forces is an honor, it can also be a great sacrifice for military families as service members stand ready to deploy at any time in service to their country. This can be especially challenging for members of the Reserves or National Guard who have to transition out of their normal civilian lives and jobs for a limited, but possibly uncertain, period of time. It’s also challenging for active duty military families trying to complete their civilian education as they move from one location to the next. It is precisely because of these sacrifices that the American people, through their elected representatives, have provided a wide range of federal and state benefits to service members and their families. This section will cover some of the more important benefits available to service members and their families and what they can mean for you.
Protecting Your Family in the Event of Death or Disability
Given the nature of your profession, the risks of bodily injury or death are high, much higher than those faced by the civilian world. They are risks that you accepted when you raised your hand because you understood the importance of serving your country.
Fortunately, you have up to $400,000 of low-cost life insurance available to you through the Veterans’ Administration. While this insurance is only available while you're in uniform, there are ways that you can extend or convert it after you leave the service. This section will describe those options as well as other low-cost options offered by private insurance companies catering to military service members and their families so that you can protect your loved ones in the event of your death.
If you suffer a disability due to your service in the military, there are important steps you need to take before you leave the service. First, there is a two-step evaluation board process, composed of a Medical Evaluation Board and a Physical Evaluation Board. This section will walk you through that process and will provide you with information about eligibility for various disability benefits.
Other Benefits for Your Family
This section also covers the variety of other benefits that may apply to you and your family members, including low-cost health benefits as well as educational benefits. As a result of your service, you may also qualify for the G.I. Bill or the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill and may have the option of transferring any unused educational benefits to your immediate family members. This can be a significant benefit to your family especially when you consider the rising costs of tuition. Articles in this section also discuss certain benefits available at the state level, including fee waivers and scholarships for children of veterans.
Resources
Military benefits, like most things in the military, can be complex and layered. This section will help you navigate the process and provide you with guidance on what benefits you may qualify for and how to go about receiving them. Even if you’re no longer serving in the military, you may still be entitled to certain benefits. For further assistance, you should consider speaking with a military law attorney.
