Can my parents get military benefits?
As the child or dependent of a military member, you’re likely familiar with the various benefits that come with having a parent who serves in the armed forces. But can your parents themselves receive these benefits, even if they’re not actively serving?
Immediate Answer: Not Always
In most cases, only eligible spouses and children of military service members and veterans can receive military benefits. Your parents might not be able to directly receive these benefits, except in specific situations. Here are some important exceptions to note:
Exception 1: Civilian Parents of Military Servicemembers
• Dependency status: Children of active-duty, activated Guard and Reserve, and retired members of the U.S. Armed Forces might be eligible for benefits even if their parents are still serving, as long as they meet certain dependency requirements (DoDI 1344.5, Section 4, Dependency). In such cases, these benefits may be extended to the grandparents, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, and adult dependents living with and financially dependent on the servicemember.
• Education Benefits: As an example, the GI Bill (Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)) offers education assistance to qualifying children, not just dependent children. Spouses may also be eligible for GI Bill benefits through the spouse and dependent care programs (Section 804, Pub. L. 85-857). In both cases, financial dependency can play a key role in determining eligibility for these programs.
Exception 2: Parents Who Served Themselves
In certain situations, your parents might qualify for veterans’ benefits themselves, should they have an honorable military discharge or honorable service prior to 1 October 1956 (38 CFR 3.2(r)). Your parents should:
• Have been separated from their military duty prior to that date; and
• Show a minimum discharge or characterization of service for other than dishonorable conditions
Under these specific circumstances, they might qualify for specific veterans’ benefits, such as health insurance (TriCare), mental health support, and possible monetary compensation, including burial and pension entitlements.
Filing Claim or Application Processes
Even when your parents might not be eligible, it’s crucial to highlight the value of preparing claim and application processes when possible. While they won’t receive traditional military benefits, your parents can leverage various government support programs. Here are examples:
- Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits for military-related medical conditions: This program could help your parents with chronic or severe impairments tied to their active-duty time. Complete Form SSA-3366 (Work Credits), which you can find online or via phone (800-772-1213).
- Veteran Affairs (VA) Medical Services: Both active-duty and retired members, their spouses, and dependent family members can gain access to some medical services even without the VA Individualized Driver (21 USC Section 1709). Use Form SDM10 (Referral Authorization for Non-Acquisitions Authority) if needed. Consult the National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics’ website for specifics.
- Federal-State Vocational Rehabilitation Services: Through Rehabilitation Counseling (FVTRS), your parents might become eligible for educational, counseling, and mental health resources to help overcome mental health impairments and substance abuse related to their military service. Find out more at 1-800-962-2145 or 1-877-732-7367.
Keep in mind that these assistance programs differ from traditional military benefits; it’s important to emphasize that your parents’ experiences are unique cases. You may need help navigating paperwork and application requirements. Feel free to research online, contact relevant VA offices (800-827-1000), the Department of Labor (Employee Benefits Security Administration), and the military services’ Public Affairs for additional guidance on the claim process.
To recap: your parents generally won’t be eligible to receive traditional military benefits; however, through specific instances and government initiatives, there may be situations where your parents can apply for limited support. Carefully examining dependency status and the conditions outlined above are crucial. Be prepared for potential roadblocks and lengthy processes but understand that taking the right steps can benefit your loved ones.
Ultimately, consider discussing these possible options and related requirements directly with your parents and relevant authority figures for guidance on this matter.
References:
[1] U.S. Department of Defense Instruction Number 1344.5, ‘Parental Separation**’[2] The Department of Labor, "Federal-State Vocational Rehabilitation Services"
[3] Veterans Affairs. "Dependent Benefits", https://www.va.gov/pension/Dependent-Children/
Would you like to know more about what specific benefits can be used or how I can elaborate on this process? Please feel free to ask!
