AARP Offers Support to Veterans, Military Families

The AARP family would like to say thank you this Veterans Day to those who have served in America’s armed forces, and to say we appreciate your sacrifices. We’re also aware that military families deal with some unique problems.

At least 4 million of our members are in the military or are veterans. One thing we’ve learned about those in the military, or with an armed services background, is that they volunteer to help others even more often than their fellow Americans.

AARP has a lot of ways to repay the dedication veterans have shown, and to support their families. Here are a few.

Financial security AARP provides information that can help make your military savings plan last longer, grow larger and stay safer. Whether you’re  kicking off a job search or transitioning from military to civilian employment, AARP offers effective resources and innovative tools, and spotlights employers that value experienced workers. Our Job Board lists positions for which you can apply. Our online career fairs bring together job seekers and employers. And, our Tax-Aide program provides free assistance to older taxpayers.

Combating fraud Veterans are targeted by  fake charities posing as organizations that benefit them. AARP and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service joined forces in 2017 to launch Operation Protect Veterans, a campaign designed to better educate veterans about possible scams and how they can protect themselves.

Access to earned benefits Many veterans need help navigating red tape to get benefits and services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). AARP is teaming up with state-level agencies and nonprofit organizations to  connect veterans to the benefits and services for which they are eligible.

Caregiving Many military families provide unpaid care to loved ones. This can be a strain on financial and emotional health. AARP provides planning resources to family caregivers and has worked with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation to create a  Prepare to Care guide on the needs of veterans and their families.

We also bring our expertise on Medicare, Social Security and other programs to help veterans navigate these systems. That’s important. A large percentage of veterans rely on Social Security in retirement, according to the VA.

This Veterans Day, let’s not only thank those who served and their families, but let’s also do all we can to support them. The transition from successful military life to successful civilian life takes the friendship and help from those of us who enjoy the freedoms we have because of the sacrifices they have made.

For more information on these services, go to  aarp.org/veterans.

Also of Interest

• Get involved and sign up to become an AARP Activist