As long as you have an honorable, medical or general discharge, no criminal conviction can take your veteran’s benefits away.  Depending on the type of benefits you receive, e.g., compensation vs. pension, benefits may stop or be reduced during your incarceration.  Know where and how to reapply.

A starting point is the Veterans Affairs offices which act as resource and referral centers. There is one in White Plains at 300 Hamilton Avenue. The phone number is (914) 682-6041. The other is Montrose at 2094 Albany Post Road. The phone number is (914) 737-4400.

Vet Centers provide a broad range of counseling, outreach, and referral services to combat Veterans and their families. All services are free of cost and are strictly confidential. In Westchester County, the Vet Center is located in White Plains at 300 Hamilton Ave. and can be reached at (914) 682-6250. [EF150718-3]

VA hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes (offer care to anyone who has served in the armed forces, along with members of the Reserves who have been called up. The services at each location can range from mental health services to substance abuse, help with jobs and careers, and advocacy for benefits claims. If you are not in crisis, take the time to find out what is offered at each location. (If you are in crisis you can call the VA Helpline at (800) 273 8355.

• Montrose Campus of the VA Hudson Valley Health Care System is located at 2094 Albany Post Road, Montrose NY 10548. The phone number is 914-737-4400.
• White Plains Community Clinic at 23 South Broadway, White Plains, NY 10601 specializes in services for women.  The phone number is 914.421.1951 x4300
• Yonkers Community Clinic at 124 New Main St. Yonkers, NY 1070. The phone number is 914.375.8055 x4400

A review of benefits is available at the Veterans Benefits Administration or you can call (800) 827-1000.  If you are a caregiver for a veteran, there is a site just for you.

Are you a Homeless Veteran? Under the Patriot Housing Initiative, you may qualify for priority consideration in housing. For more information, contact the VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838) . You will be connected with the local VA for immediate assistance.