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.

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Benefits & Claims

Filing a VA Disability Claim

Step-by-step guide to filing your first VA disability claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

3-4 months (avg 85 days)11 steps

Applying for the GI Bill

Step-by-step guide to applying for GI Bill education benefits to fund your education or training.

~30 days9 steps

Enrolling in VA Healthcare

Step-by-step guide to enrolling in VA healthcare, including medical, dental, and mental health services.

Less than 1 week10 steps

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.

4-6 weeks10 steps

Appealing a VA Decision

Step-by-step guide to appealing a denied or low-rated VA disability claim through one of three appeal lanes.

4-24+ months10 steps

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.

12-24 months recommended8 steps

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.

2-4 weeks to apply8 steps

Federal Hiring with Veterans' Preference

How to use your veteran status to gain preference in federal government job applications.

2-6 months per application7 steps

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.

1-4 weeks6 steps

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.

6-24 months8 steps

Requesting Your Military Records

How to request your DD-214, service treatment records, personnel records, and other military documentation.

2-16+ weeks8 steps

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.

~4 weeks7 steps

Survivor Benefits (DIC)

Guide to Dependency and Indemnity Compensation and other benefits for surviving spouses and children of veterans.

3-4 months to decision7 steps

VA Caregiver Support Program

How to apply for the VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers of eligible veterans.

4-13 weeks7 steps

Mental Health

Getting VA Mental Health Care

How to access VA mental health services including therapy, counseling, and crisis support — often without enrollment.

Same day to 2 weeks8 steps

Filing a VA PTSD Claim

Specific guidance for filing a VA disability claim for PTSD, including stressor statements, evidence, and C&P exam preparation.

3-5 months to decision9 steps

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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