Veterans have access to many benefits after separating from service, but a recent analysis found that many are unaware of exactly what they're entitled to. Data from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) revealed that 40 percent of post-9/11 vets admitted to having little or no understanding of their benefits, according to Stars and Stripes.
The findings come as the VA is working to spread awareness about the benefits the department offers. Among the most aggressive moves is a new law that goes into effect this week that requires soldiers separating from service to go through a series of detailed benefits sessions. Up until now, participation was voluntary.
"We want to accept them into the VA," Joseph Curtin, the VA's director of outreach, told the publication. "We want to help them."
Some of the most troubling findings relate to insurance benefits. Analysts found that 80 percent have little to no understanding, with 62 percent saying they are not familiar with them at all.
It may behoove active duty soldiers to look into their options as well, including AFBA's Select Term life insurance. The policy offers a number of benefits, including that it stays with soldiers even if they leave their employer.