Scott County Veterans Office achieves $7.4 million increase in benefits over four years

The Scott County Veterans Office continues to make significant strides in supporting local veterans, reporting an impressive $7.4 million increase in benefits from 2020 to 2023. This achievement underscores the office's dedication to advocating for those who served and ensuring they receive the financial and logistical support they deserve.

Record-Setting Impact

Since 2020, the office has consistently grown the benefits brought into Scott County:

• 2020: $13.72 million

• 2021: $15.93 million

• 2022: $18.35 million

• 2023: $21.2 million

This increase highlights the office's success in connecting veterans with vital resources, including disability benefits. One notable case resulted in a back pay of $84,000 for a single veteran.

“Every veteran counts,” emphasizes Denise Vaughn with the VA office. “Even if you served in the National Guard or completed basic training, you're a veteran, and we're here to help.”

Other Services and Scheduling

To manage the growing demand, the office offers walk-in hours every Wednesday from 9 a.m. To 2 p.m. for veterans and their families. Outside of these hours, appointments can be scheduled for Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.

Appointments can be arranged through:

• Phone: Leave a voicemail, which will be logged and returned.

• Email: Direct communication for convenience.

• Drop Box: A note card system at the office door for appointment requests.

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“Veterans visiting during walk-in hours or appointments deserve our full attention,” Vaughn stresses. “We strive to respect their time and ensure personalized assistance.”

Challenges and Solutions

Transportation remains a challenge for many veterans, but the office continues to explore solutions to improve accessibility. By streaming communication and utilizing resources like voicemail logs and drop boxes, the office ensures no veteran is overlooked.

Statewide Success

Scott County's ranking among Indiana counties for veteran benefits has significantly improved, moving from 34th in 2020 to 16th in 2021, with further progress expected once the 2024 rankings are released.

The state's veteran population saw a decline during this time, but Scott County maintained an exceptional service rate of 53.4% of eligible veterans receiving benefits, surpassing the state average of 41.8%.

A Call to Action

The office encourages all veterans to explore their benefits. “If you've ever worn the uniform, let us see what we can do,” says Vaughn.

With $21.2 million in annual benefits already impacting the community, the Scott County Veterans Office is determined to build on this momentum and serve even more veterans in years to come.

For more information, veterans can call (812) 752-8477, visit the office located at 1471 N. Gardner in Scottsburg, during walk in times, or email denise.vaughn@scottcounty.in.gov.