Veteran Quickstart Playbook

I just got out of the military — what should I do?

For: newly-separated veteran (within ~12 months of separation).

Step-by-step

1

Verify eligibility for VA healthcare

Most veterans qualify for at least Priority Group 5 healthcare; many never enroll. Free.

VA eligibility quick-check → VA Form 10-10EZ →
2

File "Intent to File" (ITF) for any potential disability claims

Locks in your effective date — even if you file the formal claim months later, back-pay accrues from the ITF date.

VA Form 21-0966 — Intent to File →
3

Get connected to a free County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO)

CVSOs file claims at NO COST and have institutional knowledge of local VA office quirks.

Find a free CVSO →
4

Apply for GI Bill education benefits if planning school

Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) gives 36 months of education + housing allowance.

VA Form 22-1990 — GI Bill application →
5

Confirm DD-214 is in hand (or request via NPRC)

Required for almost every benefit application. Get extra certified copies for state DMV (vet designator), bank, etc.

Records access guide →
6

Find local resources by ZIP

One call returns nearest VA, CVSOs, mental health, housing, employment, plus tract demographics.

Search by ZIP code →
In crisis? Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line — 24/7 confidential, federally-operated. Text 838255. Chat at veteranscrisisline.net. Homeless or about to be: 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838).

Other quickstart playbooks

About these playbooks

These step-by-step guides are curated by Wounded Warriors / Warriors Fund (Texas 501(c)(3), EIN 86-1336741). Each step links to the relevant VA form, free CVSO directory, or crisis resource so a veteran can move from question to concrete next-action in minutes. Free under CC-BY 4.0. Browse all playbooks →