Veteran Services - Serving those who served

The Orange County Veterans Services Office assists with benefits claims for veterans and their eligible family members. In full support of the Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Council, the Office also serves as the primary contact for residents to learn about and receive Veteran resources and services.

Claim Benefits

Let us help claim the benefits you've earned including:

  • Compensation for service related injury/disease
  • Medical care
  • Vocational training
  • Financial assistance (eligibility based on income and assets)
  • Special benefits programs

What we do
  • Assist with filing claims for benefits and appeals
  • Counsel on currently available VA benefits
  • Assist with obtaining military records/medals
  • Advocate on veterans-related issues at the state and national level
  • Referrals to other agencies
  • Assist with benefit plan applications for retired military survivors
  • Community outreach and educational forums on behalf of or for veterans

Are You Eligible?

  • Must be a Veteran or dependent as defined under Title 38 US Code
  • We encourage anyone with military or veteran related questions to contact our office for more information about our services

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)



  • What is a Veterans Service Office (VSO) and why would I need one?
    A Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a trained and accredited representative employed by the local county or city in most cases. VSOs have your best interest in mind and exist to help you get the benefits you are entitled to and eligible for. They will educate and assist you with claims and are free of charge.
  • Who qualifies for assistance from the OC Veterans Services Office? (Spouse/Children/etc.)
    Any Veteran and/or dependent is more than welcome to visit our office for help or guidance on a wide range of Veteran related matters.
  • When should I file my claim?
    There are many factors that impact when to file a claim. Contact your VSO for an explanation for your specific situation.
  • What do I need to bring?
    Although there is no mandatory documentation required for an initial consultation, it is recommended that you bring any applicable Military Service Records that establishes that the veteran has served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Based on your specific requests or needs, the VSO will discuss all documents needed to further support a claim.
  • How do I request my service records or DD 214?
    To request a DD 214 and/or service records, you may complete the SF 180 at https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/standard-form-180.html and mail it to the corresponding address listed on the instruction page for the records you are seeking or you may submit an online request at https://vetrecs.archives.gov/VeteranRequest/home.html.
  • Can I make an appointment?
    Our office currently operates on a walk-in basis. This ensures that every Veteran has access to the variety of resources offered on any given day. If unique circumstances exist such as medical and/or translation barriers, please contact our office at 407-836-8990 to inquire about possible accommodation.
  • Does the Veteran have to be present? (Hospitalization/Housebound)
    In general, it is helpful if the veteran can be present; however, a veteran’s inability to personally come into our office does not exclude them from receiving assistance. If the veteran has a representative, we ask that they please bring any supporting documentation that establishes their relationship to the Veteran or legal authorization to assist the veteran. It is important to note that information regarding the Veteran will be limited until proper documentation is reviewed and/or filed. Our Veteran’s Counselors are on standby to help you navigate this process.
  • Do you offer financial assistance for bills?
    Orange County Veterans Services does not provide financial services assistance; However, we are able to provide resources and referrals to other organizations who offer financial assistance.
  • Where Can I get an ID Card?
    There are several types of ID Cards available to veterans.

    • For those disabled veterans who have a 100 percent Permanent and Total disability rating, the Department of Defense (DoD) issues the Uniformed Services ID Card (USID). You can locate a facility and schedule an appointment at https://idco.dmdc.osd.mil/idco/.
    • When you are enrolled in VA health care, you receive the Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC). This card is used for appointments at VA health facilities and can also be used for retail discounts. To obtain the VHIC, visit the enrollment office at your nearest VA medical facility.
    • Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (FDVA) provides the disabled veteran ID Card to residents who have a 100 percent Permanent and Total disability rating. To request an ID Card or information on how to receive your ID Card, contact FDVA at 1-727-319-7440.
    • The final type of ID Card is the Veteran ID Card (VIC). This is a digital photo ID Card that may be used for discounts. To apply, visit https://www.va.gov/records/get-veteran-id-cards/vic/
  • Which ID card will I need to get discounts offered to veterans?
    If you have a DoD ID card, there is no need to request any other ID card for retail discounts; however, the state of Florida disabled veteran ID card can be used for state benefits and when purchasing the state disabled veteran tag. Any of the previously listed ID Cards may be used for retail discounts, however discretion is maintained by each retail store.
  • How do I check the status of my claim?
    You may check the status of your claim by contacting the Department of Veterans Affairs at 1-800-827-1000, or by signing in or creating an account at https://www.va.gov/claim-or-appeal-status/.

Contact Us

Orange County Veterans Services
Citizen Resource and Outreach Division
Main Office Location
2100 E. Michigan Street
Orlando, FL. 32806

Phone: 407-836-8990

Office Hours: Call us for operating hours and details on the Veterans Services location nearest you.

Clients are seen on a first-come, first served, walk-in basis only.