The Legion’s Service Bureau Network of professional service officers assists and represents still serving CF members, veterans, RCMP members and their families at all stages of the disability claims process with Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), from the first application up to and including a Request for Reconsideration with the Veterans Review and Appeal Board (VRAB). Service officers also provide professional counselling, advice and assistance in accessing other programs and benefits available to veterans from VAC.

Free Representation Service

Professional Command Legion Service Officers provide counselling, assistance and representational services free of charge, whether or not you are a Legion member. Our representation role is mandated through legislation.

As a Dominion Command service officer in Ottawa, Carolyn Gasser says, “Not only do we prepare and submit disability claims, we also provide advice in terms of available VAC programs and benefits. We can be a gateway to VAC programs, allowing veterans to deal with one person for a variety of services. This is important for veterans with complex disabilities or for those looking for direction and information on a sometimes complicated process.”

One of the veterans the Service Bureau assisted recently wrote: “Thank you so much for your assistance. After many years of fighting with the system, I had basically given up hope but was pleased to finally get a positive decision. I will definitely recommend the Legion to other veterans.”

Benevolent Assistance

Through the poppy fund donations, the Legion also provides financial assistance to serving and former Canadian Forces members and their families who are in financial distress. Grants are available for food, heating costs, clothing, prescription medication, medical appliances and equipment, essential home repairs and emergency shelter or assistance.

If you require assistance in obtaining VAC disability benefits or need more information about available VAC services and programs or the Legion’s benevolent assistance, or have a friend or family member who needs this help, please call 613-591-3335 or toll-free at 1-877-534-4666 to speak to a service officer or e-mail servicebureau@legion.ca.

The Service Bureau Would Like To Hear From You

Do you have a question regarding disability benefits and services from Veterans Affairs Canada? Starting in September/October Serving You will answer your questions. Send them to Serving You at servicebureau@legion.ca.