VA releases new update to eBenefits website

In October 2009, the Department of Veterans Affairs, in conjunction with the Department of Defense, launched a web portal that provides resources and self-service capabilities to Veterans, Servicemembers, and their families. It provides the ability to research, access and manage their VA and military benefits and personal information. The site is intended to help achieve Secretary Shinseki’s goal of eliminating the backlog and increasing decision accuracy.

Veterans and Servicemembers can access the site at www.ebenefits.va.gov where they will be guided through the registration process to obtain a premier account. With a premier account, veterans can apply for benefits, download their DD 214, and even check the status of compensation and pension claims.

On July 1, VA introduced its latest quarterly release. The new release streamlines the login process for several VA websites, allowing veterans to access their eBenefits, myHealtheVet, and VA for Vets information without signing in to multiple sites. With this new release, there are now 46 self-service features available through the site. Servicemembers and Veterans can download copies of their official VA and military correspondence, including service verification, benefits verification letters, military records, and VA home loan certificates of eligibility. They can also access Post-9/11 GI Bill enrollment status, VA payment history, and DoD TRICARE health insurance status.
The new release also includes access to a new Career Center page. The Career Center includes self-assessment tools and a resume builder, as well as a “translator” that relates military expertise to civiliam work skills. Through the Career Center, Veterans with access to the VA Veteran hiring site, “VA for Vets,” a VA program aimed at retaining and recruiting veterans.