Most disabled veterans know that they can tap into an array of VA benefits. However, knowing this and actually receiving payments are different things entirely. Obtaining veterans benefits can be complicated and presents numerous challenges. That's why the Department of Veterans Affairs holds "supermarkets" around the country to help veterans get started.

A recent example of this was in Dalton, Georgia. The state Department of Veterans Service, along with the federal Department of Veterans Affairs and nearly 40 other state and federal agencies set up shop in Dalton for the first time since 2000. The goal: to showcase the benefits available to veterans, whether they served overseas or are disabled.

Many veterans don't know about the benefits to which they are entitled, says Commissioner Pete Wheeler of the Georgia Department of Veteran Service. Moreover, "No veteran's benefit is automatic. You have to know about it and you got to apply for it", says Wheeler. That's what the benefit supermarket is all about.

Many veterans find they need a helping hand to get the benefits they are entitled to. Supermarkets like the one in Dalton, and advocates who focus on helping veteran's get their benefits, can open a vet's eyes to possibilities and guide them through the application process.

Source: WCRBtv.com. "Large turnout for veterans 'Benefits Supermarket", by Matt Barbour, dec. 7, 2011.