MAVD

Potentially, yes- but eligiblity for VA benefits as a spouse or dependent is highly situational and depends on several factors, including the Veteran's service history, disability status, and whether they are living or deceased.  Because of the complexity involved, we strongly recommend visiting our office and speaking directly with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO).  They can provide a personalized assessment and help determine what benefits you may be entitled to.

To begin the process, you'll need to bring documentation that proves your relationship to the Veteran:
Spouse : Marriage Certificate
Child : Birth Certificate
If the Veteran is deceased, Please also bring a copy of death certificate.

A VSO will guide you through the next steps and help you apply for any benefits you may qualify for.

The Military and Veterans Department (MAVD) does not maintain DD214 records unless they were previously submitted during a past visit.  If we do have a copy on file, a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) may provide it - but only under strict conditions, as the DD214 is a sensitive document.

To receive a copy, the requested must:

• Present valid photo ID to verify their identity
• If the Veteran is deceased, provide a death certificate
• if the requester is a relative, they must also provide proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate or marriage license)

If MAVD does not have the DD214 on file and cannot access it, the requester will need to submit a Standard Form 180 (SF180) to the National Archives to request the record directly.  You can find instructions and submit the form through the National Archives.

https://www.archives.gov/

It depends on the type of services you're seeking:

• If your looking for a medical evaluation, assessment, ID card, or enrollment into VA health care, you'll neeed to contact the VA directly or visit your local VA clinic.  These services are managed by the VA and require coordinatin through their system.  https://www.va.gov/
• If you'd like to speak with a Veterans Serice Officer (VSO), we currently do not schedule appoitments for this service.  Instead, we welcome walk-ins during our office hours: Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

A VSO will be available to assist you on a first - come first served basis.  

In most cases, we're unable to begin any claims or benefits processes until a Veteran has officially separated and received their DD214 (Certificate of release or Discharge from Active Duty)

However, there is one exception: the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program.  This allows eligible service members to file a claim before discharge, but only if:

• They know their exact separation date
• They apply between 180 and 90 days prior to discharge

If you're within that window and meet the criteria, you may be able to start a BDD claim through the VA.  Otherwise, we'll be happy to assist you with your claim once your discharge is complete and your DD214 is available.  

If you're a Veteran interested in learning more about your educational benefits, you have two options:

• Speak with one of our Veterans Service Officers (VSO) in person.  They can help explain available programs and guide you through the application process.
• Call the VA Education Hotline at 1-888-GI-BILL (1-888-442-4551).  Representatives are available Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM ET to answer questions and provide support.

Whether you're exploring the GI Bill, Vocational training, or other educating programs help is available to get you started. https://benefits.va.gov/gibill/

The discharge upgrade process is handled by the Department of Defense and not directly by MAVD.  However, MAVD provides helpful resources to get you started.  We can offer you the necessary application forms - DD149 or DD293 - along with a guide that explains the process.  Once completed, your application must be submitted to your branch of service, as outlined in the form.  https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/introduction/

While our direct assistance is limited, MAVD does host legal professionals twice a month who may be able to provide guidance on discharge upgrades.  Please check our events calendar to see when they'll be available next, and call to schedule an appointment.  

Yes.  MAVD offers an "Ask a Lawyer" service, available twice a month.  To find our when the professionals will be on-site, please check our calendar on the website or call 904-255-5550 to inquire and schedule an appointment.

https://www.jacksonville.gov/departments/military-affairs-and-veterans-department/events/calendar

• Yes.  You can contact National Cemetery here in Jacksonville at 904-766-5222 https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/Jacksonville.asp
• If you are looking for legal guidance,  you can schedule and appointment with MAVD's  "Ask-A-Lawyer" service which is available twice a month- please check our events calendar or call 904-255-5550 to schedule and appointment.
• For assistance with burial benefits, such as partial reimbursement of funeral expenses, you're welcome to visit the MAVD office and speak with one of our Veteran Service Officers (VSO).

• MAVD can assist with changing your direct deposit information.  You're welcome to come into the office, and a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) can help guide you through the process.  
• Alternatively, you can call the VA's Electronic Transfer (EFT) Help Line at 800-222-1000.  Be prepared to answer some security questions, and a VA representative will assist with updating your bank information.  

https://www.va.gov/change-direct-deposit/

Yes!!  Thanks to the generous support of the Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation and other amazing organizations, the City of Jacksonville MAVD offers emergency financial assistance to qualifying Veterans who need help with past due rent or utility bills.

If you believe you may qualify or would like to learn more, please reach out or visit our office for guidance on next steps. 
https://www.jacksonville.gov/departments/military-affairs-and-veterans-department/social-services