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Veterans Central Hub

Accessing your benefits should be easy. That's why we created VCH—so you can get the support you deserve, without the hassle.

Build Your Claim With VCH

Start in ClaimBuilder to organize evidence and draft statements. Log day-to-day symptoms in Symptom Tracker so both tools support the same claim.

Who Is a Veteran?

Understanding veteran status and qualification criteria for benefits and services.

Veteran Status Requirements

A veteran is someone who served in active military service and was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. To qualify for veteran status and most VA benefits, you must meet these requirements:

✅ Qualifying Service

  • • Any branch of Armed Forces
  • • Reserve/Guard on Title 10 orders
  • • 24+ months active duty (or full period called)
  • • Honorable or general discharge

ℹ️ Key Distinctions

  • • Title 10 = Federal service (counts)
  • • Title 32 = State service (doesn't count)
  • • Training only ≠ Veteran status
  • • Exceptions exist for disability/hardship

Proving Your Veteran Status

Your DD Form 214 (or NGB Form 22 for Guard/Reserve) is your primary proof of veteran status. Use it to apply for benefits through VA.gov or your local VA office.