Veteran Benefits Archives

Vet Seeks Answers About Wife’s Health Benefits

Sgt. Shaft | May 21, 2013

Dear Sgt. Shaft: Thank you for a most informative column. However, the more I read and the more I ask the question, I become more confused. So does my wife, in the matter of our health insurance cost after the age of 65. My wife — who is currently eligible for benefits under TRICARE For Life (TCL) as a second payee after her employer-sponsored health insurance plan has paid and she has not reached the age of 65 — will turn 65 in June 2013 an... more

Social Security Overview

Military.com

Social Security's retirement program has been a basic part of American life for more than 65 years. In a nutshell, a small amount is taken out of each of your paychecks. Over the years, you save up more money and earn 'credits'. Then after you retire, these savings are paid back to you, depending on how many credits you earned. Your Social Security benefits are the foundation on which you can build a secure retirement. The three major eleme... more

Veteran Seeks Help for Hearing Loss

Sgt. Shaft | May 14, 2013

Dear Sgt. Shaft: I have a veteran that has severe hearing loss that made two tours on the flight deck of the USS Bennington in the early 1960s. The VA says he has hearing loss but has no proven nexus to his military service. Are these guys nuts? He was exposed to up to 150 decibels constantly with no hearing protection back then. Isn’t that a presumptive slam dunk for compensation? Mike Day Service Officer Disabled American Veterans Chapte... more

TRICARE For Life Admin Seeks to Help Reader

Sgt. Shaft | May 07, 2013

Dear Sgt. Shaft: My name is Jim Schwartz. I work for TRICARE For Life in the Priority Benefits Department. I have recently read your last article from Mary W. in Toledo and thought that I might be able to help. Could you provide me with contact info for Mary or give her mine? I will see what we can to help her out. Jim Schwartz TRICARE for Life Priority Benefits Administrator Phone 608/301-2409 Fax 608/301-2430 Dear Jim: Thanks for wil... more

Vet’s Wife Can Remain On TRICARE Prime Until 65

Sgt. Shaft | Apr 30, 2013

Dear Sgt. Shaft: I will be converting to Medicare/TRICARE For Life next year at age 65. (TRICARE is the health care program serving uniformed service members, retirees and their families worldwide.) My wife is 10 years younger. Will she be able to remain on TRICARE Prime until she also reaches age 65? Billy W. Jacksonville, Fla. Dear Billy: The answer to your question is yes, when a member turns age 65 and switches to TRICARE For Life, th... more