The U.S. Army offers a number of benefits designed to support you after your time in service comes to an end. These benefits extend beyond the traditional retirement plan and post-retirement healthcare coverage. In fact, the U.S Army has multiple programs in place that focus on easing veterans back into civilian life and assisting them as they transition from military service to civilian life. Of those programs, perhaps the most useful is the suite of veteran benefits offered by the U.S Army. These benefits go beyond basic healthcare and housing assistance and extend into additional financial aid, education opportunities, job training services, career resources, and more. In this article we’ll explore some of these benefits offered by the U.S Army so you can understand how you might be able to take advantage of them once your time in service ends.
The all-important GI Bill
The GI Bill is a veteran benefit offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs that allows you to pursue a degree after you retire from service. Depending on the program you enroll in and the amount of time you served, you may be eligible for up to 36 months of benefits that cover your tuition, required fees, and housing expenses. You may also be eligible for a monthly stipend during your degree program that you can use to cover living expenses. Additionally, the GI Bill allows you to transfer your benefits to a spouse or dependents if you are no longer eligible to receive them. You can also use your GI Bill benefits to pursue vocational training, including certification programs.
Health care benefits for U.S. Army veterans
In addition to receiving a monthly payment when you retire from the Army, you may also be eligible for post-retirement health care coverage. This coverage is provided through the TRICARE program and allows you to receive health insurance coverage for you and your family. TRICARE also covers your family members while they are in school. Your health care coverage may also include access to a network of military hospitals, providers, and facilities. You may also be able to receive mental health care through TRICARE, depending on your eligibility. TRICARE is only available to Army veterans. If you are a member of another branch of the military, you may be eligible for different health care coverage. It’s important to understand the health care benefits you’re entitled to before you retire so you can plan accordingly.
Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program
In order to receive veteran benefits, you must be approved for a VA disability rating. While many veterans are eligible, some are not. One of the benefits you can receive even if you don’t qualify for a disability rating is the VR&E program. VR&E is a program that helps veterans transition to civilian life through education and training. If you are enrolled in the VR&E program, you may be eligible to receive additional financial assistance on top of your GI Bill benefits, Department of Defense tuition assistance, and any other veteran benefits you receive. The VR&E program offers a wide range of services, including job training, career counseling, and financial assistance. To be eligible for VR&E, you must be unemployed and have a verified disability. You must also be enrolled in a degree program through a recognized institution.
Free Counseling and Supports for U.S. Army veterans
Veterans are entitled to a number of complimentary counseling sessions through the U.S Army. This program offers veterans and their families access to licensed therapists and other mental health professionals who can help with a variety of issues related to military service, including trauma, stress, and lifestyle changes. The U.S Army also offers veterans and their families a variety of other supports and resources, such as legal assistance, financial planning, and life skills training. These programs are designed to help veterans transition to civilian life and support those who need it most. Veterans and their families are encouraged to take advantage of the programs offered by the U.S Army and other organizations that support veterans.
U.S Army Career Help and Resource Programs
The U.S Army offers a number of career help and resource programs that are available to veterans, active service members, and their families. These programs are designed to help you find a new career, either in the military or civilian sector, and transition into that new job as smoothly as possible. Programs like Troops to Teachers and Human Resources Assistance for Military Personnel are designed to connect military personnel to educational and training opportunities. You can also use these programs to get help with resume building, interview techniques, and other skills needed to transition from the military to civilian society. There are a number of other career-related programs and resources available through the U.S Army, including online and in-person networking events. These events are designed to help military personnel, veterans, and their families connect with one another and find the career, education, and other resources they need.