Did you know that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers two programs, including "Benefits Delivery at Discharge" and "Quick Start" to assist Nevada County Veterans receive disability benefits much faster than usual after discharge from service? Now veterans can gain access to the benefit services they've earned, much quicker than ever before, and your local Veterans Service Office can help.
Benefits Delivery at Discharge
The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program allows a service member to file a VA disability claim while still on active duty and without the completed DD-214 paperwork. As part of the program, the VA will process any claims made within 30 to 45 days after separation from military service. Currently, claims filed for disability benefits take anywhere from three to five months to process and return a decision. The BDD program reduces this wait time by nearly two-thirds, helping Veterans gain access to the disability claims they have earned faster than ever before.
Quick Start program
The Quick Start program allows a service member to file a disability claim for compensation up to 59 days prior to separation from military service, retirement or release from active duty or demobilization. Submitting a disability claim through the Quick Start program makes it possible for Nevada County Veterans to receive VA benefits as soon as possible after separation. The program is available nationwide and open to all service members on full-time active duty, including members of the National Guard and Reserves.
Assistance from Nevada County VSO
The Nevada County Veterans Service Office (VSO) can veterans determine which of these programs is right and can also assist with filing a claim. Additionally, there is a full-time VA Veteran Service Representative that attends the Air Force Transition Assistance Program at Beale AFB. This person stands ready to assist with all discharge requests, ensuring Veterans receive all the benefits to which they are entitled.
When you visit the Nevada County VSO, bring the original Service Medical Records or a certified copy, as well as all supporting documentation for your dependents, including marriage certificates, divorce decrees, children's birth certificates and all family social security card information. Don't forget banking information in order to receive benefit compensation through direct deposit.
Additionally, Nevada County VSO can even help you complete the DMV Veteran Status Verification Form for the California Veteran Designation on your driver's license and Veteran's ID card – it's a great benefit!
Call, email or drop on by, we're here to help!
David West, Nevada County Veterans Service Officer, can be reached at (530) 265-1446 or david.west@co.nevada.ca.us. The Nevada County Veteran's Services Office is located at 988 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley and is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
