As a veteran, you have certain benefits you earned as a result of your service to your state and country. Survivors and dependents of veterans may also have benefits available; however, these benefits are there for you only if you apply for them.
Because the laws covering veterans' benefits are very complex, you are urged to get help in applying for them. The necessity for personal assistance to veterans in filing and pursuing claims results from the legal principle that NO veterans' benefits are awarded automatically.
The Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs and most counties provide free benefits counseling and claims service to veterans, survivors, and dependents. These veterans' advocates can help you obtain all your entitlements due.
When it comes to federal benefits, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs cannot prosecute claims against itself. Therefore, veterans' service organizations or the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs will represent your claim for you before the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. There is no fee for this service, and it is a good way to be certain you receive all the benefits you earned.
Your first step is to visit or call your county veterans' service officer or the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs.
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