Now the red tape is coming off the verification process. From WBTV:

VA will implement a new process for confirming eligibility for benefits, and staff that had been responsible for processing the old form will instead focus on eliminating the compensation claims backlog.

Historically, beneficiaries have been required to complete an EVR each year to ensure their pension benefits continued.

Under the new initiative, VA will work with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify continued eligibility for pension benefits.

About 100 VA employees handle those verifications, so now they’ll be put to good use by tackling the claims backlog.

Einstein Bros Bagels and Noah’s New York Bagels will pay tribute to America’s veterans this year by offering a free Signature or Classic Bagel to all active, inactive and retired military personnel on Sunday.

This Veterans Day from 5:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., military guests are invited to visit any Einstein Bros or Noah’s Bagels location nationwide to receive a free Signature or Classic Bagel, no purchase necessary. For a location nearest you, visit http://www.einsteinbros.com or http://www.noahs.com.

“We are pleased to celebrate and show appreciation for America’s veterans with one of our freshly baked bagels, which is just a small way for us to thank the heroes who have sacrificed so much,” said Jeff O’Neill, chief executive officer for Einstein Noah Restaurant Group.

The company’s Veterans Day promotion will last all day on Sunday or while supplies last.

A Soldier is home, 62 years after making the ultimate…

The easiest way to determine eligibility is to simply submit an application, which can be done online. If you’d rather do it in person or by phone, you can visit the nearest VA medical facility, or call 1-877-222-VETS (8387) during business hours. A representative will fill out the form and have it sent to you for a review and signature. Each process is outlined here.

There are always questions surrounding eligibility, and many assumptions are tossed around. Some Vets may think you have to be injured in a war zone to receive care, or that you can only receive medical attention for issues that already carry a disability rating. I addressed those inaccuracies in the past—along with other myths—but it’s good to keep them handy and pass along to fellow Vets to set the record straight.