Veterans Benefits Newsletter

VA Benefits: Agent Orange Updates | Pension Poaching | Post-COVID Career Training

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a web page. Veterans Benefits Newsletter July 2021   VA Expands Agent Orange Conditions VA's list of presumptive conditions related to Agent Orange exposure has expanded to include Parkinsonism, bladder cancer, and hypothyroidism. Previously denied herbicide exposure claims will be reexamined. If you’re a Vietnam Veteran or an eligible survivor with health problems potentially caused by Agent Orange exposure during military service, you may be eligible for disability compensation.   Protect Your VA Pension You could be the target of scammers if you currently receive or if you are thinking about applying for VA pension payments. Pension poaching is a financial scam that targets Veterans, survivors, and family members who may be eligible for pension payments. Learn how you can protect the benefits you've earned.   Train for a Post-COVID Career Did you lose your job due to COVID-19? You may be eligible for the Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program (VRRAP). Participating Veterans can receive up to 12 months of tuition and fees and a monthly housing allowance based on Post-9/11 GI Bill rates. Learn about your eligibility and how to apply online.   Updates for Specially Adapted Housing VA's Specially Adapted Housing (SAH)grant provides seriously disabled service members and Veterans with funds they can use to make modifications and adaptations to their homes. From ramps to handrails, these improvements can help you live independently. Learn more recent improvements to SAH grants.   VA Benefits for Burn Pit Exposure Burn pits were used at several military bases to dispose of waste. You may qualify for compensation if you were exposed to burn pits during your service and have a related health condition. Join the registry to help us better understand the long-term effects of burn pit exposures.   Follow VBA on Twitter Are you on Twitter? If so, follow @VAVetBenefits to stay up-to-date on benefits and services for Veterans. Check out featured stories of fellow Veterans and get real time updates about your benefits by following us today!   Benefits for Veterans Living Overseas If you’re a Veteran who lives overseas, you're still entitled to the benefits and services that you earned through military service. Most VA benefits—including disability compensation, pension, and more—are payable regardless of your place of residence. Learn more about the benefits and services available! Advance Your Professional Development Join the Air Force Sergeants Association's (AFSA) annual Professional Education and Development Symposium! Between July 24 and 29, airmen and Veterans in and around the Orlando, Florida area can participate in a variety of AFSA conferences on growing connections and skills.