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Veterans Council wants to help surviving spouses get all benefits they're due

Sanford Herald - 6/30/2022

Jun. 24—Losing a family member is difficult, but related legal issues can be confusing — especially in the event of a sudden death.

The Lee County Veterans Council wants to ensure military spouses will get all benefits and know what documents are needed, according to Gary Gilliam, a member of the council.

"Getting My Act Together," provides a blueprint to guide spouses through the process, what forms are needed, and which agencies need to be contacted.

The goal is to see that survivors know what's needed, who to contact and which documents are needed. The packet can be prepared while a spouse is still alive, Gilliam said.

"The information you provide should help your loved ones in the event of your untimely passing," Gilliam said in a news release. "Hopefully, this helps prevent confusion, distress and anxiety at a time when you are grieving. By already having this information on hand, you'll be able to make informed decisions."

"Do you have a will, including a living? If so, where is it," are the first questions of the packet.

The second instruction relates to veterans and DD214 (military discharge) papers, if applicable, and notes that those forms can be filed at the Register of Deeds Office in a secured vault, Gilliam said.

Other information for military retirees or spouses relates to an annuity through the Defense Finance Accounting Service. The instructions say to contact the agency immediately to avoid having to pay back a large sum of money, Gilliam said.

Other contact information is provided including phone numbers for agencies, including support groups that can provide assistance.

The packet includes questions related to insurance coverage, the security of valuables and having pre-arranged funeral plans.

The Veteran's Council sought input for the packet from Fort Bragg officers, the North Carolina National Guard, USAA Insurance and several local funeral homes.

"We're just here to help people, even if they're civilians," Gilliam said.

He's looking for volunteers to help print a large number of packets that can be distributed to different locations in the county.

For more information, contact Gilliam at 919-770-5193.

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