Legion launches benefits calculator

The American Legion has launched a new online tool aimed at helping veterans and their families learn about and understand the benefits entitled to them. The American Legion Veterans Benefits Calculator gives veterans and their families a simple questionnaire and easy access to service officers who can help them with their claims.

"This tool proves useful and provides enough information to let veterans know where to get started," said John Hickey, American Legion Department Service Officer for Indiana. "Many veterans do not realize some of the benefits they are entitled to and this will help them get pointed in the right direction." Hickey and other Legion service officers assisted in the calculator's development.

American Legion department service officers offer free advice and guidance to veterans who are dealing with VA and other government agencies.

"The American Legion has department service officers across the nation that are trained to help veterans," Hickey said. "Many people don't know we are here and this tool is a step in the right direction."

How the module works

1. Answer a few questions about your military service.Link: http://www.legion.org/benefitscalculator/2. Once finished, the module lists possible benefits, including contact information for department service officers (DSOs) who can assist you.3. Contact a DSO for more individualized information.4. DSOs are also available to help with paperwork and other government bureaucracies that stand in the way of receiving medical care or benefits.

If possible, have the following ready when you make your call to a DSO:

• DD Form 214 (issued at the time of separation)
• Service Medical Records (outpatient), dental records, entrance and separation examination reports
• Inpatient hospitalization records (private or military)
• Private outpatient medical records (if applicable)
• Personnel file
• Line of Duty (LOD) investigation reports
• Overseas or temporary duty (travel) orders