There are potential benefits available to veterans after they have served in the Armed Forces. Many people who are concerned about the type of discharge they received or who want to adjust that status are concerned about protecting their own benefits for the future.
But what about family members? Do they also qualify for benefits? Should they be factored into this equation for service members who are deciding how to proceed?
There are many benefits for family members
Yes, there are often benefits that can apply to family members. One example is known as the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program. This is also sometimes referred to as Chapter 35. It can help to cover school-related expenses.
There are important qualifications, however. For children or spouses to qualify for the DEA, the veteran needs to be totally disabled through a distinct service-connected disability. There are also chances for eligibility if that person is missing in action, has definitively been captured or has passed away while serving their country.
However, a dishonorable discharge can restrict access to these benefits and make it impossible for the veteran or their family members to use this program. This could severely limit their options moving forward. Even if someone is still able to get an education on their own, it may mean that they have to take out a significant amount of debt that they would not otherwise be responsible for if they qualified for the program.
Educational benefits are just one area to consider, but they help to show why it may be beneficial for a person to adjust their status to regain eligibility. Those who are interested in this process need to know exactly what legal steps they should take.