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 1
  • 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 2 
  • 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 3 
  • 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 4
  • Preference in public employment 5
For additional information on benefits for which you may be eligible, contact your town 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.
 
Notes

 Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 115, Section 3

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

108 CMR 8:07 (1)

 4 Chapter 151B, Section 3 MGL

 5 Chapter 31, Section 25 and Chapter 41, Section 112 MGL