12 Little-Known Veteran Benefits You Might Be Missing

For many veterans and their families, navigating the vast network of services offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can be overwhelming. While most veterans are aware of core benefits like VA health care or the GI Bill, there are several lesser-known programs that can significantly improve quality of life. Whether you're a veteran or caring for one, here are 10 little-known veteran benefits you should know about—including potentially life-changing support like in-home caregiving.

1. In-Home Caregiving Through the VA Community Care Network (CCN)

The VA Community Care Network (CCN) allows eligible veterans to receive in-home care services from non-VA providers. This means veterans can access personal care, skilled nursing, and therapy services right from their own homes. It's particularly beneficial for veterans with mobility issues or chronic health conditions who need ongoing support but wish to remain at home.

To qualify, veterans typically need a clinical referral from their VA provider. Services may include bathing assistance, meal preparation, medication management, and more.

2. Veteran Aid and Attendance (A&A)

The Aid and Attendance benefit is an add-on to the VA pension that helps veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities like dressing, bathing, and eating. It's especially helpful for those in assisted living, nursing homes, or receiving care at home.

Many families miss out on this benefit simply because they don’t know it exists or assume it only applies to the severely disabled. In fact, if a veteran needs the regular aid of another person, they may qualify.

3. Tuition Assistance & the GI Bill

Veterans have access to powerful education benefits through:

• Post-9/11 GI Bill: Covers up to 100% of in-state tuition, plus housing and book stipends.

• Montgomery GI Bill: Monthly stipends for education or training.

• Yellow Ribbon Program: Helps cover tuition at private or out-of-state schools that exceed the GI Bill cap.

4. Vet Center Counseling Services

Vet Centers offer confidential counseling services separate from the traditional VA healthcare system. These centers provide support for mental health challenges, PTSD, bereavement, sexual trauma, and more. Many veterans prefer Vet Centers because of their community-based feel and increased privacy.

5. Free Headstones, Grave Markers, and Burial Benefits

The VA provides free burial benefits including a headstone or grave marker, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate to honor the veteran’s service. Eligible veterans can also be buried in one of the VA's 150+ national cemeteries at no cost to the family.

These benefits can save families thousands of dollars and provide peace of mind.

6. Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)

For veterans with service-connected disabilities, the VR&E program (formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment) offers job training, resume development, and even funding for further education. The program also supports those who want to start their own business. This is an underutilized resource for veterans trying to re-enter the workforce after injury or disability.

7. Dental Insurance via the VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)

While VA dental benefits are limited to veterans with specific service-connected conditions, many more can access affordable dental insurance through the VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP). Plans are available through private providers like Delta Dental and MetLife at discounted rates.

8. Veteran-Owned Small Business Support

The VA offers significant support to veterans interested in starting or expanding their businesses. Through the Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU), veterans can access training, certifications, and federal contracting opportunities.

Veterans with qualifying service can get priority access to VA contracts through programs like Vets First Verification.

9. Free Tax Preparation Services

Through the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and partnerships with organizations like the American Legion and AARP, veterans can often receive free tax preparation and filing services. Some military bases and VA facilities also host tax clinics during tax season.

10. VA Foreign Medical Program (FMP)

For veterans living or traveling abroad with a service-connected disability, the Foreign Medical Program (FMP) can cover medical services related to those conditions. This benefit allows veterans to receive approved treatment outside the U.S. and get reimbursed through the VA. It’s a hidden gem for retired veterans living internationally.

10. Free State ID or Driver’s License (in many states)

Most U.S. states offer a free or discounted state ID card or driver’s license for veterans. These usually require proof of honorable service (e.g., DD-214) and may include a “Veteran” designation on the ID, which can help with accessing other benefits or discounts.

11. Discounted or Free Access to Parks and Recreation

Many states offer free or discounted access to state parks, hunting/fishing licenses, or vehicle registration waivers for veterans. Some of these perks apply to all veterans, while others are limited to those with a disability rating.

12. VA Housing Grants for Disabled Veterans

Veterans with certain service-connected disabilities may qualify for grants to adapt their homes, including:

• Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant

• Special Home Adaptation (SHA) Grant

These help with ramps, wider doors, accessible bathrooms, etc.

Final Thoughts

Veteran benefits go far beyond the basics, and knowing what's available can be life-changing. From in-home caregiving to financial aid for daily living, the VA and related agencies offer a wide safety net that many veterans never tap into.

If you or a loved one served, make it a priority to explore these programs. A simple call to a VA benefits counselor or a visit to your local Vet Center can be the first step toward receiving the support you’ve earned.

Need help applying for benefits? Reach out to a VA-accredited claims agent or Veteran Service Organization (VSO) like DAV, VFW, or American Legion for free assistance.