Are veterans disability benefits available to retirees?
Yes, veterans disability benefits are available to veterans who have retired from active military service. In Washington, retired veterans may be eligible for a range of disability benefits, such as monthly compensation for service-connected disabilities or for non-service related disabilities (such as injuries or illnesses acquired after service). In addition, retirees may be eligible for special financial aid and other benefits, such as free medical care through the VA health care system. In order to qualify for veterans disability benefits, an individual must have served in an active duty branch of the U.S. military, have a service-connected disability, and have been honorably discharged. The disability must be rated at 10% or higher by the VA in order to receive the maximum benefits. In addition to the monthly compensation, veterans may be eligible for additional benefits, such as a clothing allowance for those with service-connected disabilities and vocational rehabilitation and employment counseling for disabled veterans who wish to reenter the workforce. In some cases, the veteran may be eligible for free medical care and/or free prescription drugs through the VA health care system. Retired veterans should contact their local VA office or the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs to find out more information about their individual eligibility for veterans disability benefits.
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