When a service member dies on active duty, survivors can face an immediate wave of paperwork, phone calls, and decisions while still in shock. Misunderstandings can cost time and money. It is important for families to know that there are reliable monthly benefits designed to keep a household financially stable and medically covered. Survivor support tends to fall into four categories: Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) SBP is the Department of Defense's main monthly income-style ben

Tax season can feel unnecessarily complicated for veterans and military families. Between VA benefits, military retirement pay, survivor benefits, and state-specific rules, it is not always clear what income must be reported and what does not.   The good news is that many veteran benefits are tax-free, and understanding the difference can help to avoid mistakes, reduce tax bill, and may even reclaim money.   Here is a breakdown of what veterans should know about taxes:   Unde

For many military families, the transition from active duty to civilian life comes with paperwork. Among all the forms a veteran receives, none is more important than the DD214. But what is  it, and why should every military family know about it?   What Is a DD214?   The DD214, formally DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is the official document issued when a service member leaves the U.S. military. It summarizes a veteran’s military service an

The VA home loan program offers a significant benefit for eligible veterans, active service members, and certain surviving spouses to allow them to buy, build, improve, or refinance a home. These loans are often more favorable than traditional mortgages. There are two broad loan types: direct VA loans (for certain Native American borrowers) and VA-backed loans, which are the ones most commonly used through private lenders. Certain service history or duty status requirements m

Planning for the future is not always easy. For veterans and their families, it is one of the most meaningful acts of care and foresight we can take. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers burial in a VA National Cemetery as one of the highest honors for those who served our nation. Yet, many families are unaware that they can apply now, long before the time of need, to ensure eligibility and peace of mind through the Pre-Need Eligibility Determination Program.   Elig

For many veterans, benefits earned through military service can provide lifelong support. Too often, these resources go underutilized...

Managing VA benefits just got easier. The Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP), a partnership between the VA and the Association of...

For those who are currently receiving a VA pension, there is a lesser-known opportunity to increase monthly benefits through the VA's Aid...

Military installations offer an array of on-base resources to support families and caregivers through everything from daily life to...

Dependents of veterans who are receiving VA disability compensation or benefits may also be eligible for additional support through the...

A VA home loan can offer powerful benefits designed to help veterans, active-duty service members, or surviving spouses build financial...

VA disability benefits are designed to provide financial support and healthcare services to veterans who have sustained injuries or...

Military dependents play a vital role in supporting service members, often making sacrifices alongside their loved ones. While the focus...

Dark Guardian empowers the military family, caregiver, and veteran community with knowledge and tools to help navigating challenges feel...

Veterans can file a VA disability claim for service-related injuries or illnesses. The process is free; veterans do not have to pay fees...

Dark Guardian hosts an extensive collection of resources tailored to provide for the unique needs of military families, caregivers, and...

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is a law that provides protections for servicemembers. The SCRA limits the amount of interest...

The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) is establishing an amendment with the intent to ease the burden of veterans who file claims...

The family caregiver plays an important role in the wellness and health of veterans. The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family...

Did you know that active-duty service members are limited to the amount of interest that can be charged? The Servicemembers Civil Relief...