The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the National Guard Bureau teamed up in 2005 in an effort to improve coordination of veterans benefits at the state level by hiring a State Benefits Advisor (SBA) to help ensure a smooth and seamless transition for Guard members returning from active-duty deployments.

This position is located in the Joint Force Headquarters in each state in the Personnel Directorate (J-1) supporting the Army and Air National Guard members and their families.

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as the statewide point of contact and coordinator and to provide advice to managers, supervisors, Guard members and their family as to benefits and entitlements available through the Department of Veterans Affairs.  SBA’s will also provide assistance and referrals in resolving problems with VA healthcare, benefits and system-wide TRICARE issues.

This position ensures education and awareness of outreach programs that are available to Guard members and families in their state.

The SBA’s will participate in mobilization and demobilization processes and provide materials on VA Benefits, compensation, education, vocational rehabilitation, life insurance, home loans, and burial benefits. 

Our office is located in the Personnel Readiness/Soldier Support Center
Phone: 602-267-2545   Fax: 602-267-2912
email: edward.wills@us.army.mil

Transition Assistance Advisor:  602-629-4421