How to apply for County veteran services and emergency assistance (Benton County Veterans Affairs) — Benton in Iowa

Who it's for

Benton County Veterans Affairs, at the Benton County Service Center, 811 D Ave., Suite 34 in Vinton, helps veterans and their dependents apply for VA health care, disability compensation, pension and survivor benefits. Its county Emergency Assistance can help with an unexpected expense that causes a financial hardship. To qualify, you must have lived in Benton County at least 30 days; the veteran needs an honorable or general (under honorable conditions) discharge and at least 90 consecutive days of active duty beyond training, or a VA service-connected disability; household income must be at or below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines; and savings and other countable assets must be no more than $2,000 for a single person or $4,000 for a family (your home, life insurance, retirement accounts and up to two vehicles do not count). Hours are Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; call 319-472-3150 for an appointment.

What you'll need

• Proof of Benton County residency (driver's license, lease, utility bill, voter card or other official document)
• Proof of the unexpected expense

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about County veteran services and emergency assistance (Benton County Veterans Affairs) — Benton. 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 proof of Benton County residency (driver's license, lease, utility bill, voter card or other official document), proof of the unexpected expense — 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.

Renewals

none