After serving in the military for some time, someone you love is heading home. Whether it’s your spouse or other family member, close friend or favorite neighbor, you want to help the special veteran in your life to have a smooth transition to civilian life.
To help your special veteran to do as well as possible post-military career, consider sharing the following tips and advice with them.
Accept Help From the Military Regarding Where to Find Housing
If your favorite veteran will have to find housing upon leaving the military, gently advise him or her to let the military assist in the process as much as they can. As MilitaryBenefits.info notes, veterans who will relocate to an area that is near a military base should contact that installation’s orderly room or Transition Assistance Program on the base to see what help they can get in their search for housing.
In addition, the veteran in your life should also check with the VA’s Housing Assistance program to see which benefits they qualify for. This program can help veterans to buy a home or refinance a loan, as well as services that help veterans who want to build a home or improve the one they have.
Look Into Insurance Programs and Credit Cards for Veterans
For veterans who need insurance policies and/or want to set up an account with a bank, suggest that he or she look into the many services that are offered by USAA. USAA works with members of the U.S. military as well as their spouses and children, and offers everything from a variety of insurance policies including home, life and auto, banking and investment services, and a number of credit cards, including one that offers a cash-back feature.
Apply for a VA Disability Compensation Sooner Rather Than Later
Even if the veteran you know and love isn’t sure he or she will qualify for VA compensation for any injuries connected to time spent in the service, encourage your veteran to get evaluated for any potential issues as soon as possible. The process will require some appointments with the VA and follow-up visits too, all of which can take time. Of course, you and your veteran both hope that he or she has no medical issues, but being proactive and taking care of these appointments now can save headaches later on.
Take Advantage of Jobs Programs
If the special veteran in your life wants to get into the workforce, as opposed to going to school full time or another option, suggest that he or she look into the various jobs programs that are available. As Military.com notes, every branch of the military offers programs and workshops to help veterans to transition into the civilian workforce. You can also Google local staffing agencies and veteran job search programs to see what positions are available. Also, veterans should reach out to their military contacts and use the power of networking to learn about programs, job opportunities and agencies who can help him or her find a position.
Help Is Available
Your veteran will probably go through a variety of adjustments upon leaving active duty. By being there for him or her and reminding the veteran of the different types of help that is available, the transition to civilian life will hopefully be as stress-free as possible.
