A little-known Veterans Health Administration (VHA) directive requires VHA health care providers to aid veterans in applying for Social Security Disability and other benefits not related to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The directive, 2008-071, mandates that VHA health care providers assist veteran patients with completing non-VA medical forms required for various benefits processes, including Social Security Disability. It also requires the VA health care provider to obtain, on request, medical statements, which can be used for non-VA purposes. For those veterans applying for benefits like Social Security Disability, the help that the VHA owes them can be invaluable. See article here: