Mo’s Positive MOment of Truth MOst service members join the military on a volunteer basis, but everyone may not have the same luxury of volunteering to separate from the military. It’s important for everyone to know the different types of discharges our service members face when transitioning into Veteran status and how it will affect their benefits. Once a Veteran has a copy of their DD214, we recommend they take the following actions: 1. Connect with Veteran Affairs (VA) to apply for your VA ID and to inquire if you are eligible for Health Care and any other benefits. https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits/homepage https://www.vets.gov/ 2. Connect with a lawyer/legal aid or an accredited Veterans Services Officer to get help with your disability claim and/or your discharge upgrade package. https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp 3. Look into applying for the VA HUD Vash Program. You may not need housing assistance when you first separate, but their may be a time down the road. Know your options. https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash_eligibility.asp 4. Inquire about Unemployment, SSI, SSDI and other types of income assistance. You may or may not be eligible, but you will not know until you apply. 5. Check with your local community college to inquire about Financial Aid, Work Based Learning, Continuing Education Classes, and any other opportunities they offer. https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/character_of_discharge.asp Please share and be prepared for life after the military. ~ Mo #OperationLifeAfter #Mosheroes #TheMoyouknow