The veterans benefits act of 2003 provides lifetime disability compensation, pension, and medical care for military service-connected disabled Veterans. It also extends education assistance to spouses and dependents of eligible veterans.
The VA administers a variety of programs that provide benefits to veterans and their families, including vocational training, home loans, life insurance, health care, and burial services. The VA works with other Federal agencies to ensure that all programs are working properly and to improve efficiency.
One of the VA's major goals is to reduce delays in processing claims and appeals. This includes improving communication between field offices and other administrative functions.
VA has a responsibility to notify claimants of any information or evidence that may be required to substantiate their claims. If a claimant does not have the information or evidence in their possession, VA will attempt to obtain it on behalf of the claimant.
If the claimant cannot identify the records that the VA needs, the claimant must provide written consent to disclose those records for purposes of supporting a claim. The next of kin of the individual to whom the records pertain may provide such consent.
This is a very important issue for veterans who are struggling to find work. The VA is a critical part of the system that helps these individuals find employment.