Sarge here with some intel you need to hear. There’s a VA benefit that most of you don’t know exists, and the deadline is breathing down our necks!
What’s the VA Clothing Allowance?
The VA provides an annual lump sum payment to eligible veterans to help replace clothing damaged by service-connected disabilities or prosthetic devices. For 2024, that’s $891 annually – and it adjusts each year based on cost-of-living.
This isn’t just for major prosthetics either. The eligibility is broader than most veterans realize.
Are You Eligible? Here’s How to Find Out:
You qualify if you have ANY of these service-connected conditions (it isn’t just these either~):
• Agent Orange exposure causing wounds or skin conditions that seep through clothing
• Knee injuries requiring braces that damage clothing
• Foot injuries requiring special insoles (shoes aren’t covered)
• Prosthetic devices that wear out fabric or use oils/grease that stain clothes
• Wheelchair use that damages clothing
• Colostomy bags requiring special garments
• Skin conditions like psoriasis requiring frequent clothing replacement
• Any orthotic devices that cause excessive wear and tear
How It Works:
The VA provides this as an annual benefit you can use for:
• Specialized clothing: Prosthetic socks, orthopedic garments, adaptive clothing
• Frequent replacements: Items damaged by seeping wounds, skin conditions, or device wear
• Alterations or repairs: Modifying clothing to accommodate disabilities
• Special care costs: Extra laundry or dry-cleaning for damaged items
The Process -💋 KISS – Keep It Simple, Sarge! (Because even this old sergeant needs reminders sometimes) :
Step 1: Go to VA.gov and search “clothing allowance”
Step 2: Schedule with your VA physician – This benefit MUST go through them
Step 3: Explain your situation – Be specific about how your disability affects your clothing
Step 4: Get the documentation – Your doctor needs to verify your need
Step 5: Submit before August 1 – No extensions, no excuses
Why Most Veterans Miss This:
You’re not told about it. The VA doesn’t advertise benefits – they expect you to know and ask. That’s why I’m here telling you now.
Real Talk from Sarge:
I see veterans every day who are missing out on benefits they’ve earned because nobody told them these programs exist. The clothing allowance isn’t pocket change – we’re talking about real money that can help with your monthly budget. And here’s the kicker: if you qualify, you can get this allowance EVERY YEAR, not just once. That adds up fast.
Why August 1 Matters:
If you miss this deadline, you will have to wait until next August. That’s 12 months of money left on the table. This isn’t just about the $891 – it’s about getting the recognition and support you’ve earned through your service and sacrifice.
Resources:
• Main VA Clothing Allowance Page: https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/special-claims/clothing-allowance/
• VA Form 10-8678 (Application): https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-10-8678/
• Direct PDF Link: https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/VA%20Form%2010-8678.pdf
• Current Rates & Deadline Info: https://www.va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/special-benefit-allowance-rates/
Need Help? We’ve Got Your 6:
If you’re struggling to navigate this process or need support with your VA claims, remember – no veteran fights alone. That’s what the IGY6 Movement is all about. Visit www.Boots2Benefits.com to learn how veterans are supporting veterans through every step of the claims process.
Even Sarge isn’t infallible—I’ve been known to mix up my left from my right during formation, so always double-check everything I tell you because while my heart’s in the right place, my brain occasionally goes AWOL, and the last thing we need is a friendly fire incident!
Bottom Line:
You’ve already paid for these benefits with your service. Don’t let bureaucracy or lack of information cost you money you’ve earned.
The clock is ticking. August 1 is coming fast. Take action today.
You served. You earned it. Now file with confidence.
Stay tactical,
🎖️ Sarge