At American Legion Post 495 in Indianapolis, we are dedicated to serving those who have served our nation. One of the ways we honor our veterans is by providing assistance through our Veteran Service Officer (VSO) program. Our VSO is here to help veterans, their families, and survivors navigate the often over-complicated process of applying for the benefits they have earned through their service.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore available benefits or need help with an ongoing claim, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

What is a Veteran Service Officer (VSO)?

VSOs are trained and accredited professionals who specialize in helping veterans access benefits and resources provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the federal government, and the state of Indiana. At Post 495, our VSOs are committed to ensuring that every veteran receives the care, support, and recognition they deserve.

How Can a VSO Help You?

Our VSO provides expert guidance and personalized support in:

• Filing Claims for VA Benefits: Including disability compensation, pensions, and survivor benefits.
• Understanding Eligibility Requirements: For VA healthcare, education programs (such as the GI Bill), and housing assistance.
• Navigating Appeals: If your initial claim has been denied, we can help you gather the necessary evidence and file an appeal.
• Accessing State and Federal Benefits: Such as property tax deductions for Indiana veterans, employment assistance, and more.
• Connecting to Local Resources: Including counseling, support groups, and community services tailored for veterans and their families.

Benefits We Assist With

Post 495’s VSO can help veterans and their families access a wide range of benefits and services, including:

Federal Benefits

• Disability Compensation: Financial support for veterans with service-connected injuries or illnesses.
• VA Healthcare Enrollment: Guidance on enrolling in VA medical services.
• Education Assistance: Access to benefits under the GI Bill, vocational training, and scholarships.
• Home Loans and Grants: Information on VA-backed home loans and grants for adaptive housing.
• Survivor Benefits: Support for spouses and dependents to access benefits after the loss of a veteran.

Indiana State Benefits

• Property Tax Deductions: Assistance with state programs that reduce property taxes for disabled veterans.
• Indiana Veterans Home: Guidance on admission to this state-operated long-term care facility.
• Employment Assistance: Help accessing veteran hiring initiatives and job training programs.
• Education Benefits: Support for Indiana’s educational assistance programs, including tuition-free options for children of disabled veterans.

Why Choose Post 495 for VSO Services?

At Post 495, we understand the unique needs of our veterans because we are veterans, family members, and supporters ourselves. Here’s why our VSO services stand out:

• Expertise You Can Trust: Our VSO is highly trained, knowledgeable, experienced and committed to helping you succeed. Our current VSO is a 100% (T&P) rated service-connected veteran that has assisted over fifty other veterans successfully claim the benefits they were eligible to receive.
• Personalized Attention: Every veteran’s situation is unique, and we take the time to understand your specific needs and goals.
• Community Connection: As part of Post 495, you’ll join a supportive community of veterans and their families who truly care about your well-being.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re filing your first claim or need assistance with a complex issue, our VSO is here to help. All services are FREE and available to ALL veterans, their families, and survivors.

Contact Us Today

• Location: American Legion Post 495, Indianapolis, Indiana
• Phone: 317-898-0652
• Email: vso@post495.com
• Hours: By Appointment

Walk-ins are welcome if the VSO is in the post at the time, or you can schedule an appointment for more in-depth assistance.

At Post 495, we believe that every veteran deserves to access the benefits they’ve earned through their service. Let us help you navigate the process and ensure you get the support you deserve.

Honor. Assistance. Advocacy. Visit Post 495 Today.