Disaster Resources For Veterans
We’re now in summer, but severe weather still exists in most of the United States. Record-breaking heat, tornadoes, and even flooding has ravaged the country. These weather issues have wreaked havoc on the homes of many people, including veterans.
Veterans are often on limited income, so dealing with home damage can be a huge frustration. Many do not have homeowners insurance and even those who do may have to jump through hoops to get the financial help they need.
Veterans should know that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can help them. There are many resources available. Here’s a look at some of them.
Housing Assistance
After a natural disaster that has destroyed their home, a veteran may need immediate housing assistance. They can call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans 24/7 at 1-877-4AID VETS (1-877-424-3838).
Health Care
A disaster may also cause injuries to veterans. Those who need medical assistance can visit any VA facility for help. In the event of a disaster, there may be mobile support vehicles in your area to offer easy access to health care and prescription refills.
- The Find VA locations tool can help you locate the facility closest to you.
- There may be teams at local shelters or in Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) to connect veterans with health care and benefits, including housing case management.
- The VA health benefits hotline is staffed Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET. You can call 1-877-222-8387.
- For non-urgent/emergency questions, you can reach VA through My HealtheVet secure messaging for appointment scheduling, prescription refills, and to access your medical records. Register for an account today so you can be prepared when disaster strikes.
Benefits
- If you are unable to get a benefit payment after a disaster, you can contact the VA National Call Center at 1-800-827-1000 to request a special one-time payment.
- The VA can ask home loan lenders to put a 90-day freeze on foreclosure or waive late charges for VA home loans. More information is available on the VA home loans webpage.
- For those using the Gi Bill, if your school closes temporarily due to a disaster, the VA may continue payments. Call 1-888-442-4551 for more information.
- If you are a displaced Veteran receiving employment services from VA, you may qualify for two additional months of Employee Adjustment Allowance (EAA). Contact your local VA Regional Office to learn more.
- The VA Specially Adapted Housing Program may be able to assist you to fund home repairs after a disaster. Call 1-877-827-3702.
- If a disaster caused the loss of a previously adaptable automobile, call the VA at 1-800-827-1000 to see how they can help.
Learn More About Veterans Benefits
Veterans have many benefits and resources to help them in the event of a natural disaster. They earned these benefits and should make sure to use them if they need them.
Need help understanding your benefits? Let a White Plains veterans disability benefits lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon assist you. We can assess your situation and help you understand what options are available to you. Call 914-294-2145 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.
Source:
news.va.gov/132965/disaster-assistance-and-resources-for-veterans/
