OHIO’SCOUNTY VETERANS

SERVICE OFFICESPROVIDING ASSISTANCE TO

VETERANS, SERVICE MEMBERS, AND THEIR FAMILIES

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We will discuss:

What are County Veterans Service Offices?

How do you find your County Veterans Service Office?

How can we help:1. prior to deployment?2. during deployment?3. after deployment?

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What are County Veterans Service Offices?

WE ARE NOT THE VA!! Veterans Service Offices are

COUNTY agencies.There is a Veterans Service Office in each

of Ohio’s 88 counties. County Veterans Service Officers are available to assist

veterans, active duty service members, and their families. 3

The Veterans Service Office is a “one stop” office which can assist with:

1. emergency financial assistance;2. referrals to other agencies; 3. and in applying for veteran’s

benefits from federal (VA), state, and local government.

Most offices are staffed entirely by veterans. 4

How do you find your County Veterans Service Office?

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The phone numbers, addresses, and websites for all 88 County Veterans Service Offices can be found at the

Ohio Department of Veterans Services website: www.dvs.oh.gov

or by calling: 1-877-OHIO VET

(1-877-644-6838)

Prior to deployment:

• Find your County Veterans Service Office (CVSO) and ensure your family members know the number and the services which are available.• Family members should have a copy of

your Title 10 orders; dependent ID cards; any DD 214s for previous active duty periods; and other documents such as birth certificates, etc. 6

• If you are currently receiving any VA benefits, the VA must be notified to avoid an overpayment. Your CVSO can assist you with this.

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Prior to deployment (cont):

During deployment:

•Emergency Financial Assistance:Each County Veterans Service Office

provides emergency financial assistance for veterans, active duty service members and their dependents. The assistance is temporary and intended for unexpected hardships. Typical assistance includes funds for

housing, food, and utilities. 8

Minimum Eligibility Requirements:

•Must currently be on active duty under Federal activation (Title 10 orders) or have prior honorable active duty for purposes other than training (DD 214)•Minimum of 90 days of residency in

county• A definite financial need must be

demonstrated9

Each of the 88 counties operates its own program under Title 59 of the Ohio Revised Code. Assistance and

procedures differ by county. Contact the CVSO in your county of residence

for specific guidelines and information.

10Title 59 - Ohio Revised Code

During deployment:

•CVSOs can also help family members by providing referrals to other agencies in the community.

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During deployment:

•We suggest service members keep a journal during deployment.•Get copies of your service medical

records for any injuries, etc.

These items will be helpful if it is necessary to file a VA disability claim

later.12

After deployment:

County Veterans Service Officers (CVSO) can help with obtaining the following and other benefits:

• Federal (VA) Benefits:

• State of Ohio benefits: Ohio War Bonus and MIRF (Military Injury Relief Fund)

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The CVSO will complete all necessary forms and applications to apply for

benefits and act as your advocate during the entire process. They also understand

the unique problems which are sometimes encountered by veterans. You are able to talk face to face with a CVSO rather than

blindly filling out forms and waiting for an answer or talking to someone on an 800

telephone number. All services are provided free of charge.

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The Ohio State Association of County Veterans Service Officers

looks forward to helping you and your families before, during, and after your

deployment.

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THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!