Veterans and Friends Network: Recent Episodes

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As a military veteran, I am shocked to learn millions of veterans do not know they qualify for benefits, or they simply don’t know how to claim them.

So, I’m recruiting you!

I’m recruiting you to help reach our veterans. The US census reports there are roughly 18.2 million veterans in this country. Yes, 18.2 million and nearly 50% do not take advantage of their earned benefits.

Odds are pretty good, you know a veteran. They are your neighbors, members of your family, co-workers, and your friends.

Please, you must share this article with them!
Not to sound like I’m bragging but I have utilized each one of these earned benefits (and a bonus favorite at the bottom) and I’ve got two words for you: Life Changing. I speak proudly of them in the hopes I’ll encourage other veterans to follow suit.
This list is the foundation for veterans to access their benefits. This list does not account for the more individualized benefits available and is designed to be a starting point. I will highlight specific programs, in more detail, in future posts. Here are my top four. I’ve included links to resources.

My Big Four

  1. Home Loans
    It’s no secret buying a home is a big decision. As a veteran, I have utilized the VA loan for three loans. Two purchase, one streamline re-finance. So, I have experience on the other side of the table too.
    I understand home ownership or refinancing may not be in the cards right now, but that shouldn’t stop you from learning more about your earned VA backed Home Loan benefit. As a loan officer and veteran, I consider it a privilege to help veterans with the home buying/refinancing process, and I’m here to answer questions you may have.

Here are 5 benefits to using a VA home loan:
1. No down payment
2. No PMI (mortgage insurance)
3. Relaxed credit standards
4. Competitive interest rates
5. Refinance made easy (VA IRRRL Streamline)
- In Maryland or Virginia? Click here to apply

  1. Education
    In an increasingly competitive marketplace, and with tuition costs on the rise, a great way to stay marketable and/or climb that corporate ladder, is to learn a skill or trade in high demand. Become a Subject Matter Expert.

Get school (tuition, books, relocation) paid for and get paid (stipend) to go to school?!?
Win-Win.
Is your school too expensive? Yellow ribbon program can help. Click to see a list of participating schools. The Post-9/11 GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program 2019 - 2020 list of participating schools and rates.
Do you think you’re ready to start your educational journey? Click here for the VA link: Apply today

  1. Business & Entrepreneurship
    The dream of business ownership is not as far away as you think. Here are some awesome education and training programs specifically for veterans to start a business.
    The Veterans Business Outreach Center Program is an OVBD initiative that oversees Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC) across the country. This small business program features a number of workshops, concept assessments, mentorship, and training for eligible veterans. Find your nearest center.

Bonus favorite: (All expense paid) -- Veterans Entrepreneurship Program (VEP) – Riata Center for Entrepreneurship, Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University – Wonderful campus and a fantastic staff.

  1. VA Disability / Healthcare
    According to the Department of Veterans affairs only 62% of veterans have visited a VA center. They are missing out.
    With a service-related disability and an "other than dishonorable" discharge can qualify for a monthly tax-free VA Disability Compensation benefit ranging from $133 to over $3,400 every month.
    For the fastest service, veterans can apply online through the vet.gov website or reach out to a DAV representative and they can check your eligibility and get you started on a claim.
    Are you a Veteran and need someone to talk to?

  2. Talk with a peer coach, call Military OneSource’s free, confidential peer support services at 800-342-9647. This service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

  3. You can also call 877-927-8387 to talk with a fellow combat Veteran about your experiences, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.