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The Hidden Goldmine: VA Benefits Veterans Do Not Utilize—But Should.

Updated: Jun 9


There is an entire range of veteran benefits that remains untouched by many veterans. Not because they are obscured. Not because there are limitations. Simply because there is no conversation surrounding them.

 

When most veterans finish their period of active service, their attention shifts to healthcare, education, disability, and even home loans. These are the main attractions. But after these, there are additional benefits with the potential to drastically relieve the strain of everyday life. Unfortunately, many veterans either do not know about these benefits, or believe that they are too far out of reach.

 

These are benefits that deserve a second glance. 

 

The Ya Never Heard Of It, The Commissary Card

 

Access to a military base is not a myth, it is very much a reality for veterans with a service connected disability rating of ten percent or higher. With a VA-issued health identification card, veterans who qualify can shop on military installations, exercise for free at the base gyms, and also attend Morale Welfare and Recreation activities.

 

What does this really mean? Discounted groceries. Shopping without taxes. Golf courses. Recreational rentals. In this day and age when the cost of essentials is not exactly at its lowest, this one perk alone can save hundreds of dollars a month. Still, most veterans remain aren't aware these benefits are available. The key? A ten percent disability rating. 

 

Space-A: A Seat in the Sky 

 

Travel is costly. However, for veterans deemed one hundred percent permanently and totally disabled, air travel is available through the Space Available program. Space-A (Space Available) permits veterans to fly on military planes when unoccupied seats are available. 

 

While traveling via military planes isn’t the most luxurious option, it can serve as an important resource for those in need. Popular locations include Alaska, Puerto Rico, Guam, Hawaii, and several bases within the continental United States. For those with a more flexible schedule, this is one of the best hidden benefits for traveling in this country. All that’s needed is a tan card (Department of Defense ID) and the hassle for obtaining one is well worth it.


To obtain this card, the veteran must apply at a Real-Time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) office or a similar authorized location, providing documentation such as their VA disability award letter, DD Form 214, and valid photo identification. The card will clearly indicate the veteran’s 100% disabled status and may also be available to eligible dependents.

 

A Pass That Unclogs All Gates

 

Federal lands are America’s hidden shrine; available for veterans, it is free. A lifetime pass grants free access to over two thousand national parks, forests, and recreation areas.


This pass is available to any veteran with any level of disability. This means any service-connected disability rating from the VA (even as low as 10%) qualifies you for the Access Pass. Veterans simply need to provide documentation of of permanent disability, such as a VA disability award letter, summary of benefits, or proof of SSDI income, when applying for the pass.

 

This is more than just kind intention. It helps promote physical health, enables family vacations, and provides mental clarity.


Dental Benefits Strapped to Heroes

 

The VA does provide dental services, but only to veterans who meet specific eligibility requirements. Most veterans do not automatically qualify for free VA dental care unless they fit into one of the categories listed at the following link: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care


Veterans who don't qualify for free dental care can purchase dental insurance at reduced rates through the VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP). Details are at the following link: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/dental-insurance/


The Civilian Doctor the VA Will Pay For 

 

The Community Care Program is often misunderstood within the VA system. A common myth is that “the VA doesn’t pay for veterans’ medical care in the community.” That’s not true.

 

The VA Community Care Program gives eligible veterans access to care from local, in-network providers when the VA cannot provide the necessary care in a timely or convenient manner. Eligibility depends on your health care needs, location, and the VA’s ability to provide timely, high-quality care. All care (except for emergencies) must be authorized by the VA in advance.


 

The Counselor You Didn’t Know Was on Payroll 

 

Veterans with a service-connected disability who have difficulties with work, training, or managing day-to-day life may be eligible for assistance under the Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31).

 

Assistance goes beyond job placement, extending to education, writing a resume, interview preparation, and in some instances, low-scale business assistance. It actively participates in aiding employment opportunities and accepts the fact that some veterans may not be able to work in their old roles anymore.

 

Overarching Statement: The Benefits Are There. Claim Them.

 

These benefits aren’t goodwill or charity; they are contributions that have been earned and are waiting. But most of these benefits are linked to your DD-214.


If you have lost your DD-214, you can request a replacement from the National Archives or through the VA’s records portal: https://www.va.gov/records/get-military-service-records/



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