County and Tribal Veterans Service Offices of Wisconsin
In Wisconsin the County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) plays a critical role in the veteran's advocacy system and is often the initial contact in the community for veteran’s services. CVSO’s are your local resource for dedicated and professional assistance in obtaining federal and state veterans’ benefits. They provide the expertise and advocacy that veterans need to optimize their access to benefit programs.
Burial benefit assistance is provided to the survivors of veterans. The widows of veterans are eligible for many state benefits, and in limited cases, federal benefits. CVSO’s are there to assist them as well.
Most of the programs veterans utilize are offered through the US Department of Veterans Affairs or the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs. Therefore, CVSO’s are generally in contact with these agencies on a daily basis. They also work with the Service Officers of the various veterans’ organizations when filing VA benefit claims. CVSO’s interact with various other county government offices, such as Human Services, the Register of Deeds and the Clerk of Courts. Many federal and state agencies, such as Workforce Development, the local Housing Authority and the Social Security Administration are also resources of assistance to veterans, and CVSO’s are knowledgeable of their programs as well.
An accredited VSO representative can help you gather evidence, file a claim, or request a decision review. And they can communicate with the VA on your behalf. The services that an accredited VSO representative provides on your VA benefit claim are always free.