As a Veteran, in 2014, your main New Year’s resolutions should be to sign up for VA Healthcare; and if you file a claim for VA Benefits/Compensation, make sure to go through an accredited Veterans Service Officer to help in the process.

Now I’ll address some common myths about VA Healthcare.

I’m not eligible. I was turned down, I make too much money.

If you were denied healthcare due to income or assets you should reapply every 12 months. You can request an exception based on a recent change in income or unusual family medical expenses. •

When declaring assets make sure you deduct all medical expenses to include Medicare premiums, supplemental health insurance premiums, over the counter drugs, medical supplies and mileage driven to medical appointments.

I already have health insurance; it would affect my current health care coverage.

Other health insurance is not an issue if you are eligible for VA Healthcare. Treatment by the VA will have no effect on current healthcare coverage.

I was never in a combat zone, my condition is not combat related.

Service connection for a disability may be an issue for Benefits/ Compensation but not for healthcare.

It doesn’t matter if the condition was combat related or not, if you are eligible for VA healthcare you can be treated.

I don’t need it. If you don’t need VA healthcare, that’s fine. It’s your option. Simply bear in mind the VA budget is based on numbers. The more veterans registered, the more funds to treat veterans. Get in the system.

How do I register?

You can go to the nearest VA facility or outpatient clinic to apply or you can contact me to help guide you through the process. I have the secret phone numbers.

You must have a copy of your DD-214 or discharge papers, proof of household income from all sources (don’t forget to deduct all medical expenses). If you have a service connected disability, you must have the letter from the VA declaring that disability.

Finally, never, never, never file a benefits/compensation claim without going through an accredited Veterans Service Officer. Contact me and I will get you to the right people.