This generation of veterans and servicemembers has access to the best benefits of any era in history. From the VA Home Loan program to the GI Bill, you can save money, enhance your career opportunities, and even change your life. Don’t miss out on any of the military and veteran benefits you have earned.
In late 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced an almost complete ban on abortion services and abortion counseling for veterans and their dependents. This decision was announced as being “effective immediately,” ending access to VA healthcare services and referral options for abortion previously available, including for cases of rape or incest.
Military families have expanded access to mental health care thanks to TRICARE virtual mental health services, which began offering help in late 2025 to connect patients with therapists through secure video or phone calls. This program assists with outpatient therapy, substance use issues, and emergency psychiatric needs. Virtual visits eliminate common problems like finding child… Read more »
In mid December the President of the United States announced a one-time military bonus payment of $ 1,776 to millions of currently serving military members.Who receives this bonus? All active-duty members and certain reservists in pay grades O-6 and below. According to some sources, the Department of Defense plans to provide this bonus to “most recipients” by the end of 2025.
The Department of Veterans Affairs announced a restructuring of its Veterans Health Administration health care management system in early 2026. Designed to eliminate bureaucracy and standardize patient services, the VA claims that, as part of this process, it does not plan to lay off doctors or nurses (at press time).
The United States Senate passed the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act on December 17, 2025. The NDAA includes $900.6 billion for national defense and military operations. Learn more.
There are approximately 120,000 military families at overseas military bases, with some 170,000 servicemembers assigned to overseas duty. The quality of their healthcare is as mission-essential as that of stateside troops and families, but according to an Inspector General report, that overseas care is lacking.
The DoD approves a BAH increase of 4.2% for 2026, impacting one million service members with updated housing allowances. Learn more.
Congress finalized the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), with a 3.8% increase in basic military pay for service members, effective January 1.At press time, the 2026 NDAA has not signed into law; it must pass both the House and Senate before being sent to the President’s desk for signature. The House of Representatives voted to pass the 2026 NDAA on December 10, with the Senate to vote (ideally) before the December 19 recess.
An assessment published in 2025 by the RAND Corporation reveals a staffing crisis within the Department of Defense Child Development Program (CDP). A shortage of childcare staff can quickly translate into a shortage in childcare overall, and it’s a problem that potentially threatens military retention and readiness. According to Congress.gov, “The Department of Defense (DOD)… Read more »
In late 2025, Congress passed a law requiring an increase in the pension awarded to living Medal of Honor (MoH) recipients. The new law, the Monetary Enhancement for Distinguished Active Legends (MEDAL) Act, increases the monthly military pension for living MoH recipients from $1,489.73 to $5,625, four times the previous amount. Beyond the monthly pension, recipients… Read more »