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Serving Those Who Served

Expert finance tips, VA benefit guidance, and trusted resources built exclusively for America's veterans and their families.

  • βœ“ Free finance tips tailored for veterans
  • βœ“ Step-by-step VA disability guidance
  • βœ“ Trusted resources & veteran community

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Free Resources

Your Veteran Finance HQ

Everything you need to make smart financial decisions β€” from VA loan education to disability benefits and retirement planning.

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VA Loan Education

Understand the benefits of VA home loans, IRRRL streamline refinancing, and how to leverage your military service for homeownership.

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Finance Tips

Budgeting strategies, debt management, TSP optimization, and wealth building tips designed specifically for veterans and military families.

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VA Disability Guide

Step-by-step guidance on filing VA disability claims, increasing your rating, and maximizing your earned benefits.

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Refinance Calculator

See how much you could save with a VA refinance. Compare rates, understand IRRRL vs. cash-out options, and estimate monthly savings.

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Benefit Resources

Comprehensive directory of veteran benefits including GI Bill, VA healthcare, life insurance, employment programs, and more.

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Veteran Blog

Weekly articles covering market updates, policy changes, success stories, and practical tips from fellow veterans and finance experts.

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Smart Money Moves for Veterans

Practical, actionable financial advice tailored to the unique benefits and challenges faced by military veterans.

01

Maximize Your VA Loan Benefit

Your VA loan entitlement is a lifetime benefit. Use it for your primary residence with 0% down, no PMI, and competitive rates. The IRRRL program makes refinancing even easier with minimal paperwork.

02

Build an Emergency Fund First

Before investing or paying extra on debt, save 3-6 months of expenses. Military transition often brings unexpected costs. Use a high-yield savings account to earn while your money sits ready.

03

Don't Leave TSP Money Behind

If you contributed to the Thrift Savings Plan during service, consolidate or let it grow. The L Funds offer great lifecycle targeting, and fees are among the lowest in the industry at roughly 0.04%.

04

Understand Your VA Disability Benefits

VA disability compensation is tax-free income. Document all service-connected conditions before separation. Even a 10% rating qualifies you for healthcare, property tax exemptions, and more.

05

Use Your GI Bill Strategically

The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers tuition, housing allowance, and books. Consider transferring unused benefits to dependents before separation. Yellow Ribbon programs can extend your coverage further.

06

Avoid Predatory Lenders

Be wary of lenders offering "too good to be true" deals targeting veterans. Check credentials on the VA's lender list, compare at least 3 quotes, and never pay upfront fees before closing.

07

Leverage SCRA Protections

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act caps interest rates at 6% on pre-service debt, provides lease termination rights, and protects against foreclosure. These protections can save thousands annually.

08

Plan for a Civilian Career Transition

Start planning 12-18 months before separation. Use the DoD SkillBridge program for civilian internships while still receiving military pay. Network through veteran organizations like VETTED Foundation.

Filing Your VA Disability Claim

A straightforward guide to navigating the VA disability claims process and maximizing the benefits you've earned through your service.

1

Gather Your Evidence

Collect service medical records, VA medical records, buddy letters from fellow service members, and any private medical evidence supporting your claim.

2

File Your Claim

Submit a claim online at VA.gov, through a VSO (Veterans Service Organization), or in person at your regional VA office. Use Form 21-526EZ for disability benefits.

3

Attend Your C&P Exam

The VA will schedule a Compensation & Pension exam to evaluate your conditions. Be honest and thorough β€” describe your worst days, not your best.

4

Receive Your Decision

Review your rating decision letter. If denied or under-rated, you can file a Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal within one year.

πŸ’‘ Pro Tips for a Stronger Claim

  • β˜… Get a VSO β€” Free representation from organizations like DAV, VFW, or American Legion. They know the system inside and out.
  • β˜… Document everything β€” Keep a symptom journal. Note how conditions affect your daily life, work, and relationships.
  • β˜… Don't forget secondary conditions β€” A service-connected condition that causes another (e.g., knee injury β†’ back pain) can increase your rating.
  • β˜… 0% funding fee β€” Veterans with a disability rating are exempt from the VA loan funding fee, saving $3,000–$12,000+ on home purchases.
  • β˜… Appeal if denied β€” Over 50% of initial claims are denied or under-rated. Appeals with new evidence or a Higher-Level Review often succeed.

From the Veteran Blog

Stay informed with weekly articles on veteran finance, VA benefits updates, success stories, and expert guidance.

Essential Veteran Resources

Curated links to trusted government programs, veteran organizations, and benefit resources you've earned through your service.

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Healthcare & Mental Health

Access VA healthcare enrollment, mental health services, the Veterans Crisis Line, and vet center locations nationwide.

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Education & Training

GI Bill benefits, VET TEC program, tuition assistance, and vocational rehabilitation services for career advancement.

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Employment & Career

Job boards, SkillBridge program, resume help, and federal hiring preference programs built for veterans.

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Housing & Home Loans

VA home loan information, housing grants for disabled veterans, and homeless veteran assistance programs.

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Life Insurance & Benefits

SGLI/VGLI conversion, VA life insurance programs, burial benefits, and survivor benefits for families.

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Veteran Organizations

Connect with fellow veterans through trusted organizations offering advocacy, community, and support services.