How to apply for Kansas Office of Veterans Services: free help with VA claims from Veteran Service Representatives

Who it's for

Veteran Service Representatives (VSRs) from the Kansas Office of Veterans Services help veterans and their families learn which benefits they may be eligible for and guide them through the federal VA claims process at no cost. VSRs are accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and are certified each year. Field offices are in the Western Kansas Region (Colby, Fort Dodge, Hays, Hutchinson, Junction City, Manhattan, Salina) and the Eastern Kansas Region (Atchison, Emporia, Independence, Kansas City, Lawrence, Overland Park, Topeka, Wichita, Winfield), with representatives also at the VA medical centers in Topeka, Wichita, and Leavenworth. Schedule an appointment with your local VSR, or call 785-296-3976.

What you'll need

• DD-214 (a VSR can help get a copy)
• Marriage certificate with spouse's Social Security number, and prior marriage information
• Medical records
• Blank check or deposit slip (for VA direct deposit)
• Birth certificates with Social Security numbers
• Funeral home invoice and death certificate (for survivor claims)
• Information on all income sources

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Kansas Office of Veterans Services: free help with VA claims from Veteran Service Representatives. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need dD-214 (a VSR can help get a copy), marriage certificate with spouse's Social Security number, and prior marriage information, medical records — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.