Why Don't More Veterans Utilize Their Benefits?

Many veterans do not take full advantage of the benefits they have earned through their service. These benefits are designed to support their well-being and ensure that they can lead fulfilling lives after their military service. However, numerous factors contribute to the difficulty in accessing these resources, making the process a frustrating and challenging experience for many veterans.

Personal Perspective

I did not join the military for the benefits, although I knew they were part of the package. Being a soldier is an experience in itself, and my role as a medic meant having a unique set of responsibilities. Deploying to a hostile country was a significant and different experience, and every soldier within their unit had their own personal and unit-specific journey.

My medical needs are managed by the VA, and I have had the option to obtain veteran license plates. While some states offer discounts or free services, I have never been particularly interested in these perks. Perhaps the most significant benefit I received was the Post-9/11 GI Bill which paid for a considerable amount of my college education, to the point where I do not owe anything. This change in my life has been transformative, making me a different person compared to before I joined the Army.

Encountering Challenges in the VA System

When I first tried to access my benefits at the VA, I was met with hostility. The angry response from the staff left me feeling frustrated and disheartened. Over five years later, I returned to the VA and encountered similar hostility, with the staff asking, "What do you want?" It wasn't until I sought assistance from the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) that I finally received the support I needed and became part of the VA system. Shortly after that, the policy seemed to change, with a less hostile atmosphere and the doors opening for me.

Individual experiences can vary, but I spent over 30 years trying to access my benefits. I filed dozens of claims in different states but the VA often claimed they never received the claims, creating a sense of doubt and frustration. One Veteran Service Officer (VSO) even suggested that I might not be getting my benefits because I’m not “playing the VA’s game,” but they could not explain what that meant. This kind of attitude can be demotivating and make it difficult for veterans to trust the system and access the benefits they deserve.

Systemic Issues in the VA

The VA system has faced many challenges, from long wait times for care to administrative issues. Delays in care are particularly concerning, as they can have severe consequences for veterans' health. A significant issue has been the backlog of claims, where many reports were left unaddressed and eventually found to be outdated and ineffective. Many veterans waited years before receiving the care they needed, often facing complications and even death due to the lack of timely response.

It's not just about veterans not using their benefits; the process of accessing them can be complex and frustrating. Delays in VA care, along with administrative issues such as claim backlogs, make the system seem like a game of chance rather than a reliable safety net for veterans.

Key Takeaways:

The VA system can be challenging and frustrating for veterans trying to access their benefits. Hostility and frustration are common experiences, even for veterans who have earned their benefits. Support from organizations like the VFW can help overcome these barriers.

Efforts to streamline the VA's processes and improve support systems for veterans are vital for ensuring that those who have served our country can receive the care and benefits they deserve.