Where to Turn When the VA Says You’re Ineligible

For many veterans, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the main road to support after military service. Health care, housing, job training, and mental health services often start there—or so it seems.

But what if that door never opens? If the VA tells you you’re ineligible, it can feel like everything stops. It could be your discharge status. It could be a missing document. Maybe they said no—and didn’t explain why.

At National Veterans Homeless Support (NVHS), we’ve seen this happen to good men and women all across Central Florida. And here’s what we’ve also seen: there are still options. You are not out of chances—and you are not alone.

veteran in a support group

Why the VA Might Say No

Veterans are denied VA benefits for many different reasons. Here are some of the most common:

  • You received an Other Than Honorable (OTH) or General Discharge
  • You didn’t serve long enough on active duty
  • You were in the Reserves or National Guard without meeting specific activation criteria
  • Your paperwork is missing or incomplete
  • Your claim was denied due to a deadline or lack of evidence

Whatever the reason, hearing “no” from the VA doesn’t mean you can’t get help. It just means it’s time to look in a new direction.

You Still Have Options—Here’s Where to Start

Even without VA benefits, you still have real, proven ways to move forward. Here are the most effective next steps:

Review Your Military Records

Start by understanding exactly why the VA said no. Request your DD214 and other military records through the National Archives. If you’re working with NVHS, a case manager can help you interpret your documents and determine the next steps.

Apply for a Discharge Upgrade

If your discharge status is standing in the way, you may be able to change it.

  • You can apply for a Discharge Upgrade through your branch’s Discharge Review Board.
  • Or request a Character of Discharge Determination through the VA.

These processes can be complicated, but you don’t have to figure them out alone. We can help guide you through the next steps and connect you with resources that may assist with the process.

Get Help from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO)

Veterans Service Officers help you apply for benefits or appeal if the VA denies your claim. They also guide you toward other programs not tied to VA eligibility.

VSOs are available through:

Don’t try to navigate the system alone. A VSO can be your advocate every step of the way.

Access Health Care Outside the VA

Being denied by the VA doesn’t mean you must go without medical care. You can connect with:

You still deserve compassionate, professional care—and we’ll help you find it.

Find Non-VA Housing and Financial Support

NVHS and similar organizations partner with a range of community programs, such as:

  • Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Helps with rent, case management, and basic needs.
  • HUD-VASH: Offers housing vouchers to eligible veterans, sometimes through outreach partners.
  • County and city relief programs: Emergency help with rent, utilities, food, and transportation.

Even if you’ve been told your income is too high, you may still qualify due to your current crisis. We’ll help you figure that out.

Stepping In When Veterans Need More Support

At NVHS, our mission is to ensure that no veteran is forgotten, especially those turned away by the system.

We offer:

We walk beside you, whether it takes a month or a year, to help you find stability and dignity.veterans and volunteers together

What Makes NVHS Different?

  • We don’t require VA eligibility to serve you.
  • We meet you where you are—in shelters, on the street, or wherever you call home.
  • We collaborate with local churches, nonprofits, clinics, and others.
  • We listen before jumping in with a “solution.”

When the VA says no, we say: Let’s figure this out together.

You Still Deserve Help—Even If the VA Says “No”

Being told you’re ineligible for VA benefits can feel like a dead end. But in reality, it’s just a detour—and NVHS is here to walk that road with you.

You served. You matter. You still have value, even if your paperwork says otherwise.

If the VA has turned away you or a veteran you love, don’t give up. Reach out to NVHS today, and we’ll help you find the support you’ve earned—because no one who wore the uniform should be left behind.

Frequently Asked Questions After a VA Denial

Why would the VA say I’m ineligible for benefits?

There are several reasons. The most common include receiving an Other Than Honorable (OTH) or General discharge, serving less than the required time, or lacking proper documentation. Sometimes, claims are denied due to missing deadlines or insufficient evidence.

Can I appeal a VA denial?

Yes. You can file an appeal through the VA appeals process, especially if you believe the denial was made in error. A Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can help with the paperwork and guide you through the appeal.

What if I lost my DD214 or military records?

You can request a copy of your DD214 and service records from the National Archives. NVHS can also assist you in tracking down your documents if you’re having trouble.

Can I still get help if I have an Other Than Honorable discharge?

Yes. While an OTH discharge can limit your access to VA benefits, many community organizations—including NVHS—offer housing, health care, and support regardless of discharge status. You may also qualify for a discharge upgrade.

How long does it take to get a discharge upgrade?

It varies. Some upgrades are processed in a few months, while others may take a year or more. 

What kind of health care can I get outside the VA?

NVHS helps veterans access low-cost or free care through community health clinics, mental health centers, and nonprofit programs. We connect veterans to care options that don’t require VA approval or insurance.

Can NVHS help me if I’m homeless right now?

Yes. NVHS offers emergency outreach, transitional housing programs, and financial assistance. We work to get veterans off the streets and into stable housing as quickly as possible—even if they’re ineligible for VA services.

What if I’m not in Central Florida—can I still get help?

While NVHS operates in Central Florida, we often refer veterans to trusted partners in other regions. If you’re outside our service area, contact us anyway—we’ll do our best to connect you to someone who can help.

What if I’ve already been turned away by other organizations?

Don’t give up. Every program has different eligibility criteria, and just because one agency said no doesn’t mean others will. We can help you navigate alternative options and connect you with community resources that may still be able to assist.