How to apply for Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency Claims Assistance (Free VA Claims Help)

Who it's for

Accredited veteran service officers across Michigan help veterans, spouses, and survivors file and appeal VA claims — disability compensation, pension, Aid and Attendance, and survivor benefits — at no cost. Getting the VA rating right matters twice in Michigan: the rating drives federal compensation AND unlocks state benefits like the full property-tax exemption and free hunting and fishing licenses. The Michigan Veteran Resource Service Center connects callers to a service officer and can help track down discharge documents. All services are free and confidential — no one needs to pay a private company to file a VA claim. Call 1-800-MICH-VET (800-642-4838), weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork (the resource center can help locate it)
• Any existing VA correspondence or award letters
• Medical records related to the claim

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency Claims Assistance (Free VA Claims Help). 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 or other military discharge paperwork (the resource center can help locate it), any existing va correspondence or award letters, medical records related to the claim — 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.