Your guide through the process
Navigate what comes next
Step-by-step guides to help veterans navigate VA processes. No account needed. No personal data collected. Just clear directions.
Find Benefits for Your Situation
Answer 7 questions to see which federal and state benefits apply to you. No account needed. Your answers stay on your device.
Benefits & Claims
Filing a VA Disability Claim
Step-by-step guide to filing your first VA disability claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Applying for the GI Bill
Step-by-step guide to applying for GI Bill education benefits to fund your education or training.
Enrolling in VA Healthcare
Step-by-step guide to enrolling in VA healthcare, including medical, dental, and mental health services.
Getting a VA Home Loan
Step-by-step guide to using your VA home loan benefit, from Certificate of Eligibility to closing on your home.
Appealing a VA Decision
Step-by-step guide to appealing a denied or low-rated VA disability claim through one of three appeal lanes.
Transition & Employment
Transitioning Out of the Military
Complete checklist for separating or retiring from military service, from TAP to your first day as a civilian.
VA Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31)
Step-by-step guide to applying for Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E, formerly Vocational Rehabilitation) services for job training, education, and career support.
Federal Hiring with Veterans' Preference
How to use your veteran status to gain preference in federal government job applications.
Veteran-Owned Small Business Certification
How to certify your business as a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) or Service-Disabled VOSB for government contracting opportunities.
Records & Legal
Upgrading Your Military Discharge
How to apply for a discharge upgrade if you received a less-than-honorable discharge and want to access VA benefits.
Requesting Your Military Records
How to request your DD-214, service treatment records, personnel records, and other military documentation.
Family & Survivors
Dependents' Education Assistance (Chapter 35)
How to use the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance program for spouses and children of disabled or deceased veterans.
Survivor Benefits (DIC)
Guide to Dependency and Indemnity Compensation and other benefits for surviving spouses and children of veterans.
VA Caregiver Support Program
How to apply for the VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers of eligible veterans.
Mental Health
Getting VA Mental Health Care
How to access VA mental health services including therapy, counseling, and crisis support — often without enrollment.
Filing a VA PTSD Claim
Specific guidance for filing a VA disability claim for PTSD, including stressor statements, evidence, and C&P exam preparation.
FieldManual is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. The information provided here is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, medical, or professional advice. Always verify details with official VA sources.
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