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STATE VETERAN AFFAIRS OFFICES

Each U.S. state has its own Department of Veterans Affairs, which can be especially helpful in identifying state-specific services and benefits. It's important to note that these state offices are different from accredited Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs). Veteran Service Officers assist veterans with filing disability claims, enrolling in VA healthcare, accessing education and survivor benefits, applying for home loans, receiving emergency assistance, and connecting with other local resources. To find a Veteran Service Officer near you, please click here. For more information about your state’s Department of Veterans Affairs, refer to the chart below.

  • Veteran
    If you are a veteran you will need a copy of your discharge papers (DD-214).
  • Active Duty
    If you are an active duty service member you will need a statement of service signed by your commander, adjutant, or personnel officer showing the following information: Your full legal name Your social security number Your date of birth The date you entered duty The duration of any lost time The name of the command providing the information
  • Current or former activated National Guard or Reserve Member
    If you are a current or former activated National Guard or Reserve Member you will need a copy of your discharge papers (DD-214).
  • Current member of the National Guard or Reserves who has never been activated
    If you are a current member of the National Guard or Reserves and have never been activated you will need a statement of service signed by your commander, adjutant, or personnel officer showing the following information: Your full legal name Your social security number Your date of birth The date you entered duty The duration of any lost time The name of the command providing the information
  • Discharged member of the National Guard who was never activated
    If you are a discharged member of the National Guard and were never activated, you will need the following: Your Report of Separation and Record of Service (NGB Form 22) for each period of National Guard service Your Retirement Points Statement (NGB Form 23) and proof of the character of service
  • Discharged member of the Reserves who was never activated
    If you are a discharged member of the Reserves and were never activated, you will need: A copy of your latest annual retirement points Proof of your honorable service
  • Surviving spouse of a veteran who died on active duty or who had a service connected disability
    If you are a surviving spouse who qualifies for home loan benefits, you will need the veteran’s discharge papers (DD-214) and if you are receiving Dependency & Indemnity Compensation (DIC), you will need to fill out and send a Request for Determination of Loan Guaranty Eligibility—Unmarried Surviving Spouses (VA Form 26-1817). If you are not receiving DIC benefits, you will need to send the following: A completed Application for DIC, Death Pension and/or Accrued Benefits (VA Form 21P-534EZ) A copy of your marriage license The veteran’s death certificate
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