Specialized Information and Referral

The department provides services to veterans and their dependents who live or work in Sonoma County. There are no geographic restrictions.

The department advocates on behalf of veterans to ensure that they receive the benefits to which they earned in service to our nation. Services include individual advocacy and information and referral to assist veterans and their dependents and survivors obtain all benefits outlined in federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies; for example, medical care, compensation for service-related disabilities, and burial benefits.

The Fully Developed Claim (FDC) program is an initiative that allows veterans, service members and their survivors access to a faster decision for their compensation, pension, or survivor benefit claim. The FDC process attempts to resolve claims in 90 days or less. The process involves submitting all evidence at the time the claim is filed and certifying that the claimant has no further evidence. It is recommended that clients consult with an accredited Veterans Service Officer to assist them in gathering the evidence to support their claim.