Veteran's Bill of Rights

Veterans, you have the right to:

 

·       File a written application for veterans benefits at anytime. You can insist upon this right, even if told that  you are ineligible.

·       Get help from your local or town veterans services officer or town clerk in completing your application.

        [ Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 115, Section 3]

·       Receive a full explanation of the services and veteran's benefits available under Chapter 115 MGL, as well as other available                 benefits.

·       Receive a written notice and explanation of the approval or denial of your application for benefits.

         [Chapter 108 Code of Massachusetts Regulations (CMR) 8.02 (1)]

·       Be treated with dignity and respect, and  receive accurate, courteous, and timely service.

·       Appeal and request a hearing if you disagree with any action taken in your case [108 CMR 8:07 (1)]

·       Expect confidentiality; personal information will not be collected or used except for the purposes of determining your                           eligibility for benefits.

·       Receive fair and equal treatment without regard to veteran's status [Chapter 151B, Section 3 MGL]

·       Preference in public employment.[Chapter 31, Section 25 and Chapter 41, Section 112 MGL]

 

For additional information on benefits for which you may be eligible, contact your town's Director of Veterans’ Services by calling (508) 473-8461 or by contacting  the Town Clerk at Town Hall.  If you fail to get a response within a reasonable period of time, call the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Veterans' Services at (617) 210-5480.