Veterans Affairs benefits myths expelled

  • Published
  • By by Steve Tucker
  • Veterans Affairs office
SEOUL, Republic of Korea --  People seem to be pretty familiar with the TV show "Myth Busters" and how they dispel common myths and urban legends - so it got me to thinking, there are a lot of myths that military members have heard or "know" to be fact about Veterans Affairs and the benefits members are and are not entitled to. 

So, in the spirit of "Myth Busters" I will attempt to bust a few of the more common ones we at the Korea Benefits Delivery at Discharge Site encounter. 

Myth # 1: You have to be retired to use VA benefits. The fact is, you don't have to be retired. In fact most individuals may receive health care, disability compensation, education, and other benefits if they meet minimum qualifications. These qualifications vary depending on the VA program, but a good rule of thumb would be to receive an honorable discharge and meet the minimum time in service requirements. 

Myth # 2. You need a separation/retirement physical before you can apply for VA disability. Well on the surface that may make sense, but the truth is you can submit your claim for VA disability 180 days prior to your leaving the military. In most cases you will get your VA exam either before or at the same time as your military exit physical. 

Myth # 3. Everyone gets at least 10 percent disability. Ahhh, if only it were true. The truth is your VA disability rating will be based upon the evidence of chronic conditions found in your treatment records and the findings of your VA physical examination. It's your responsibility to ensure that you get the proper documentation in your Service Treatment Records. 

Myth # 4. I will get the same VA benefits and services here in Korea as I would in the states. Not going to happen. To start with, there is no VA medical facility in Korea. If you have a service connected disability then you may use the Foreign Medical Program to pay for any medical treatment that is related to a service connected condition. The VA BDD unit can answer many questions but not all VA benefits and services are available in Korea. 

Myth # 5. My 20 percent rating is 20 percent of my base pay. The rating table the VA uses has nothing to do with your military pay. In fact, if you're awarded a rating of 10 percent you would be paid $123 per month and not 10 percent of your E3, O-4, or WO-3 pay.
 
There are many more myths that the barrack lawyers and "experts" keep alive year after year. Your best source for finding out what you the veteran or active duty service members are entitled to is to ask your local VA office the question.
 
If you're in the states you should call 1-800-827-1000. If you're in Korea you should call the Yongsan VA BDD office at DSN 738-5121, Monday-Friday from 8-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-4:30 p.m.
 
There are also many briefings held throughout Korea people may attend. To find out when the next briefing will be in your area, contact Transition Assistance Office or the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 784-5440 for a schedule of VA benefit briefings.