Browse Guides
Choose a process to get started. Each guide walks you through every step with clear, plain-language instructions.
Benefits & Claims
Disability claims, healthcare, education benefits, home loans, and appeals.
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
Leaving the military, career planning, federal jobs, and starting a business.
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
Requesting military records, discharge upgrades, and legal documentation.
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
Education benefits for dependents, survivor compensation, and caregiver support.
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
Accessing VA mental health care, PTSD claims, and crisis resources.
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.