The Veteran’s Advocate, over the years, has partnered with numerous Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs). We want to ensure Veterans receive the most effective and cost-efficient services available.
Through these partnerships, we refer Veterans with original claims to local VSOs we know provide outstanding customer service and claims assistance. In turn, these organizations return referrals to The Veteran’s Advocate to handle appeals—especially in complex cases for which the VSOs are not fully resourced or trained to handle.
VSOs are entities that provide support, advocacy, and services to military veterans, as well as active-duty service members and their families. These organizations play a crucial role in assisting veterans in various aspects of their lives, including healthcare, education, employment, disability claims, and overall well-being. VSOs must be officially accredited by the VA to carry that title and to provide Veterans claim assistance.
Perhaps the most noteworthy aspect of VSOs is that they offer their services for free—including one of their most common services, which is to assist Veterans in filing original VA claims.
We highly recommend Veterans work with a trusted VSO in their local area to file original claims or new claims for increase on conditions already granted service-connection by the VA.
Examples of well-known Veteran Service Organizations include the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legion, Wounded Warrior Project, and Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), among others. These organizations mostly operate as nonprofit entities and rely on donations, volunteers, and partnerships to carry out their missions.
It is likely your state or county also sponsors a VSO to assist you with your original VA claims. We recommend you start there—locally—for assistance.
Here are some key characteristics and functions of Veteran Service Organizations:
- Advocacy and Representation:
- VSOs often advocate on behalf of veterans, working to ensure their rights and benefits are protected.
- They may engage in lobbying efforts, legal representation, and policy advocacy to address the needs of veterans at the local, state, and national levels.
- Benefits Assistance:
- VSOs help veterans navigate the complex system of government benefits, including those provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
- Assistance with filing disability claims, accessing healthcare services, and understanding educational benefits is a common focus.
- Healthcare Services:
- Some VSOs provide healthcare services directly, while others collaborate with existing healthcare providers to ensure veterans receive the medical care they need.
- Mental health support and counseling services are often emphasized.
- Education and Employment Support:
- VSOs assist veterans in pursuing education and training opportunities, including navigating GI Bill benefits.
- They offer resources and support for veterans seeking employment, including job placement assistance, resume building, and skills development programs.
- Housing Assistance:
- VSOs may provide support for housing-related issues, including helping homeless veterans find shelter, accessing affordable housing, or addressing housing-related challenges.
- Community Building:
- Many VSOs foster a sense of community among veterans by organizing events, support groups, and activities that bring veterans together.
- Networking opportunities and mentorship programs are common components of community-building efforts.
- Financial Assistance:
- Some VSOs offer financial assistance programs to veterans facing economic challenges. This could include emergency financial aid, grants, or loans.
- Transition Assistance:
- VSOs assist veterans during their transition from military to civilian life, providing guidance on various aspects of this process, including career transition and reintegration into civilian society.
- Family and Caregiver Support:
- Recognizing the importance of family, VSOs may offer support services for the families and caregivers of veterans.
