Resources: U.S. Veterans Benefits

Your Sacrifice, Our Support: A Guide to VA Benefits

The sacrifices made by our nation’s heroes, including our fellow POAM members, deserve the utmost respect and support.

Understanding and accessing your earned benefits is crucial as you transition to civilian life or ensure you use the benefits provided, no matter how long you’ve been out of the service. This resource is designed to help you navigate the complexities of the Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits system, providing essential tips, answering common questions, and addressing potential challenges.

Whether you’re a recent veteran or a seasoned retiree, let’s empower you to claim the benefits you’ve rightfully earned.

Tips For Veterans

Empower yourself with these tips to maximize your VA benefits. From understanding eligibility requirements to navigating the claims process, we’ve got you covered.

1. If you feel pain or sick, do not keep it to yourself. Go to a local VA or your medical (civilian) facility and report it to them to create a medical record in case you file for compensation later.
2. Conduct monthly searches online for “free money/voucher” giveaways and veteran stand-downs (educational events with vendors similar to a fair). Call “your” local VFW, DAV, American Legion, or other agencies to inquire about upcoming events.
3. USAA membership is available to veterans and their family members. Call 1-800-531-8722 to receive additional information.
4. Space-A eligibility travel flights for veterans. Visit their website and Google “Free flights for veterans” for additional flight information.

Top Questions And Answers For The Veterans Corner

Find quick answers to your most pressing VA benefit questions. Whether it’s about disability compensation, pension, or healthcare, we’ve got the information you need. Check back, as we can update this section periodically.

• Question: Why are veterans denied compensation claims so often?
  • Answer: Veterans do not understand the process and how to properly compile a claim, nor do they know what the VA is looking for in order to substantiate their claim.
• Question: How can veterans discover what is happening in their local area?
  • Answer: Join a local Veteran Organization (DAV, VFW, American Legion, etc.) or frequently check the website and simply type in “upcoming local veteran events.”
• Question: How can veterans receive information on all benefits (Education, Loans, Housing, Adult Home Care, Services Available To Surviving Spouses And Children, etc.)?
  • Answer: Call the VA Benefits Hotline, 1-800-827-1000
• Question: How can I get a copy of my DD214 for a deceased veteran family member?
  • Answer: Complete form SF 180 (Request Pertaining to Military Records) or simply request it online.
• Question: How long does it take to file claims and receive a VA response for compensation?
  • Answer: There is no specific timeline. However, if you have a severe condition such as terminal illness, homelessness, or suicide, you may be able to expedite the process.
• Question: What’s the POC for veteran and surviving spouse questions?
  • Answer: The phone number is 1-800-827-8000.

What Are Common Challenges For Veterans?

Navigate the VA system with ease by understanding these common hurdles. From long processing times to claim denials, we’ll guide you through the challenges and help you overcome them.

1. Recognizing that filing for compensation for a condition affecting your body is not a sign of weakness…and taking the FIRST step to move forward.
2. Aging veterans without family members may need assistance through programs such as Aid and Attendance, which allows someone to come to the veteran’s home to assist.
3. Recognizing that Suicide and PTSD are not always associated with the military BUT mostly from current socialization or lack thereof. 24/7 Veteran Crisis Line: Dial 988, then Press 1 or text 838255
4. Identifying how to GIVE BACK to other veterans or community. Local courts are seeking veterans to become mentors or assist veterans who are facing legal challenges and need a sponsor or friendly ear of another. VETERAN’S COURT – call the local court to inquire.

Learn More about Jo Irby

Jo Irby is a legal professional and U.S. Army veteran of 28 years. She attended Michigan State University, transferred and received a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice and a minor in military science from Eastern Michigan University, and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy Law School.

She is currently an arbitrator for the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), a labor arbitrator for the American Arbitration Association (AAA), and an arbitrator for the United States Postal Service (APWU).

Jo is an instructor at the University of Detroit Mercy College, teaching criminal law, evidence, and criminal procedure. She is a licensed attorney in Michigan, New York, Ohio, and the U.S. Eastern District.

She has functioned as a labor union representative and has extensive experience in collective bargaining and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

During her tenure in the U.S. Army, she served as an enlisted solider as well as retiring in the officer ranks. She worked as a Military Police officer, an Adjutant General (i.e., human resources), a Judge Advocate General (i.e., attorney), and a recruiter for military officer candidate school.

Following the Invasion of Kuwait in 1990, Jo was stationed in Saudi Arabia, where she ran one of two existing Prisoner of War (POW) Camps that housed over 100,000 prisoners and was accountable for over 3000 support personnel during the Persian Gulf War/Operation Desert Storm/Shield. Historically, she became the youngest and first female prisoner of war officer/warden in the military and the world.

She operated as a senior attorney and an equal opportunity and diversity and inclusion expert for residents and detainees in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. She functioned as the subject matter on human relations and conducted specialized training for all soldiers and civilians in Cuba.

Jo designed and managed 3 global income tax centers, trained 33 tax preparers, and provided gratis tax services totaling $705K+ in returns while avoiding $75K in filing fees for soldiers stationed in Cuba.

Jo worked as an Operational Law and Senior Trial Defense Attorney and has traveled worldwide to support and defend soldiers on various legal matters.

She was paramount in the support of Hurricane Katrina and assisted in coordinating and gaining approval from the Department of Defense in utilizing military facilities to house displaced civilians.

Jo currently serves as an accredited attorney claims representation and zealously assists veterans file claims for VA compensation benefits.