How to apply for Nevada Veterans Service Officers: free help filing VA claims and appeals (NDVS VAST offices)

Who it's for

Nevada's VA-accredited Veterans Service Officers help veterans and their families get the federal VA benefits they earned, at no cost. A Veterans Service Officer can explain what you may qualify for, write and file a claim with the VA for disability compensation, pension, or other benefits, track the claim, and help appeal a denied claim. No one needs to pay a company to file a VA claim. Offices (called Veterans Advocacy and Support Teams) are in North Las Vegas at the VA hospital, Reno, Fallon, Elko, Pahrump, Winnemucca, Mesquite, and at both state veterans homes. Intake appointments are taking about 30 to 90 days to schedule depending on location. Call the Las Vegas office at 702-224-6025 or the Reno office at 775-321-4880, or use the Ask a VSO form on the NDVS website.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork
• 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 Nevada Veterans Service Officers: free help filing VA claims and appeals (NDVS VAST offices). 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, 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.