Veterans Services

What We Do

We help service members, veterans, and their families navigate the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) system to file for disability compensation. 

The list of health conditions that qualify for VA compensation changes often. A “no” from the VA yesterday may be a “yes” today – you owe it to yourself to visit us if you haven’t recently.

We can also familiarize you with many other federal and state veterans benefits you may have earned, and help connect you to partner organizations who can help you claim them.

Who We Serve

If you have served any time in the military, you may be eligible for benefits.

Eligibility for specific federal and state benefits programs varies. Make an appointment with one of our trained and experienced veterans service officers to help figure out which programs you qualify for.

We are particularly interested in helping:

• Young veterans
  You have plenty on your plate already as you transition into civilian life. We’re here to help you navigate the VA system and get the education, health care, and other benefits you’ve earned.
• Gulf War veterans
  Many of your current health issues – including a bunch the VA didn’t previously consider – might be linked to past military service. Conditions include gastrointestinal disorders, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and many more. Learn more here
• Vietnam era veterans – including Navy “blue water” veterans
  Did you get the runaround from the VA when you came home? Times have changed, and so has the VA – including the list of health conditions considered service related. A “no” yesterday may be a “yes” today. Conditions include different forms of cancer, diabetes, skin disease, and many more: Learn more here

How To Get Service

Are you ready for our Veterans Service Office to help you? Make an appointment by calling 503-650-5631 or emailing veterans@clackamas.us. We are open Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m.

Depending on your needs, we may ask you to bring some or all of the following documents to your appointment:

• Proof of military service
• Doctor's name, address, and telephone number
• Private medical records
• Certificate of current marriage
• Names of previous spouses and dates of previous marriages
• Current bank statement
• Information about other financial assets like annuities, IRAs, CDs, and rental property income
• A summary of out of pocket medical expenses

But don’t worry - if you are missing documents or other information needed to process your claim, we will help you get them.

Other Resources

• Our Social Services division offers a variety of resources for seniors, people with disabilities, homeless, and low-income residents.
• Our Children, Family and Community Connections division offers veteran-specific employment assistance and job training.
• The Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs offers a variety of state benefits, resources, and services.
• If you’re not a Clackamas County resident, visit our Metro area partners

Veterans Advisory Council

The Clackamas County Veterans Advisory Council advises the Clackamas County Board of Commissioners and the Department of Health, Housing and Human Services on all matters relating to issues and services affecting veterans, their families and dependents, ensuring their needs are recognized and addressed in a timely manner.