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.

Step by step

1. Gather your military discharge paperwork, such as a DD-214. If you cannot find it, call the Michigan Veteran Resource Service Center at 1-800-MICH-VET (800-642-4838) — they can help track it down.
2. Collect any existing VA correspondence or award letters related to your claim.
3. Pull together medical records that support your claim, such as records tied to a disability or condition.
4. Contact the Michigan Veteran Resource Service Center by phone at 1-800-MICH-VET (800-642-4838), weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or apply online. Staff will connect you with an accredited veteran service officer near you.
5. Work with your assigned accredited service officer — from MVAA, a county office, or a coalition — to prepare and file your VA claim or appeal. This service is completely free. You do not need to pay a private company to file a VA claim.

What to expect: After you connect with an accredited veteran service officer, they will review your documents and help submit your claim or appeal to the VA on your behalf. Processing times vary, so ask your service officer for an estimate based on your specific claim type. Getting your VA rating right is especially important in Michigan — your rating affects not only your federal compensation but also state benefits such as the property-tax exemption and free hunting and fishing licenses. All services remain free and confidential throughout the process, including any follow-up or appeals assistance you may need.