Benefits · Supportive Services
How to apply for California County Veterans Service Offices — Free VA Claims Help
California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) and County Veterans Service Offices (CVSOs)
Who it's for
County Veterans Service Offices throughout California help veterans and their families file VA claims at no cost — disability compensation, pension, Aid and Attendance, survivor benefits, and appeals. CalVet also provides claims review and representation for appeals through its district offices. Getting the VA rating right matters twice in California: the rating drives federal compensation, and it unlocks state benefits such as the Disabled Veterans' Property Tax Exemption (100% rating) and reduced-fee licenses and the parks pass (50% rating). No one needs to pay a private company to file a VA claim.
Every California county has a Veterans Service Office, and the help is free — accredited officers file initial claims and appeals at no charge. Find the local office through the CalVet website or the county government.
What you'll need
- DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork
- Any existing VA correspondence or award letters
- Medical records related to the claim
- For survivor claims: marriage certificate and the veteran's death certificate
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.