What Does the Texas Veterans Commission Do?

Texas Veterans Commission: Services and How to Apply

The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) is the state agency that helps Texas veterans, their families, and survivors access federal and state benefits. TVC provides free claims assistance, education benefits administration (including the Hazlewood Act), employment services, mental health programs, entrepreneurship support, and grant funding for veterans’ organizations. Services are free and available statewide.

Quick Facts

What Is the Texas Veterans Commission?

The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) is the state agency designated to serve Texas veterans, their families, and survivors. It was established in 1927 and operates under Texas Government Code Chapter 434.

TVC’s mission is to ensure veterans, their dependents, and survivors receive all due benefits. The agency accomplishes this through multiple departments that address claims, education, employment, mental health, entrepreneurship, and community grants.

Why TVC Matters

TVC fills gaps that federal programs alone cannot address. The agency:

• Provides free, accredited claims assistance to veterans filing VA disability, pension, and survivor claims

• Administers the Hazlewood Act, a state education benefit worth up to 150 hours of tuition exemption

• Connects veterans with meaningful employment through 90 locations across Texas

• Funds community organizations that provide housing, mental health, and financial assistance to veterans

• Advocates for veterans’ interests at the state legislature

TVC’s Core Departments

1. Claims Representation and Counseling — Free VA claims assistance

2. Veterans Education — Hazlewood Act administration and GI Bill approval

3. Veterans Employment Services — Job placement and career counseling

4. Veterans Mental Health — Counseling grants and suicide prevention

5. Veteran Entrepreneur Program — Business development support

6. Fund for Veterans’ Assistance — Grants to community organizations

7. Women Veterans Program — Outreach to women veterans

8. Veterans County Service Officers — Local claims support in 242 counties

TVC Claims Assistance: Free Help Filing VA Claims

TVC provides free claims assistance through its Claims Representation and Counseling department. Trained Claims Benefit Advisors help veterans, dependents, and surviving spouses file VA claims, gather evidence, and appeal denials.

What TVC Claims Advisors Help With

• VA disability compensation claims

• Claims for increased ratings

• Secondary condition claims

• VA pension applications

• Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

• Death pension

• Burial benefits

• Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)

• 1151 claims

• Assistance with appeals

• Medical care eligibility

• VA home loan guarantee

Who Qualifies for TVC Claims Assistance

TVC claims assistance is available to:

• Texas veterans

• Dependents of veterans

• Surviving spouses

• Orphans of veterans

There are no income limits for claims assistance. All services are free.

How the Claims Process Works

Step 1: Contact TVC
Call 800-252-VETS (8387) or visit a TVC claims office.

Step 2: Initial Interview
A claims counselor conducts an initial interview to outline potential benefit options and general eligibility criteria.

Step 3: Sign Power of Attorney
You sign a power of attorney designating TVC as your authorized representative. This allows TVC counselors to access and track your claim in the VA’s claims-tracking database.

Step 4: Document Collection
Your counselor helps you gather medical records, proof of military service, and other required documentation.

Step 5: Claim Submission
TVC submits your claim to the VA. For claims where the veteran is in immediate need, terminally ill, or has verifiable financial hardship, TVC prioritizes submission.

Step 6: Claim Tracking
Your counselor monitors your claim and keeps you informed of progress.

Step 7: Appeals Assistance
If your claim is denied, TVC provides free assistance with appeals.

TVC Claims Office Locations

TVC operates more than 30 claims offices across Texas. Most are collocated in VA medical centers, outpatient clinics, or military bases. Office hours vary by location.

Major TVC Claims Office Locations:

Common Mistakes Veterans Make with VA Claims

• Filing without complete evidence — Claims without medical documentation are frequently denied

• Missing appeal deadlines — You have one year from a VA decision to file an appeal

• Not claiming secondary conditions — Conditions caused by your primary disability may qualify for additional compensation

• Paying unaccredited “claim sharks” — TVC services are always free

• Giving up after denial — TVC provides free appeals representation

Veterans County Service Officers (VCSO)

Veterans County Service Officers are locally appointed officials who help veterans file claims and access benefits at the county level. State law requires counties with populations over 200,000 to employ a VCSO.

What VCSOs Do

Under Texas Government Code Chapter 434, Subchapter B, VCSOs are required “to prepare, submit, and present any claim against the United States or a state for benefits to which the person may be entitled under United States or state law.”

VCSO Coverage in Texas

• 242 of 254 Texas counties have a VCSO working in them (some counties have multiple)

• 101 counties have a VCSO available on a full-time basis

• Others are part-time or on-call

How to Find Your VCSO

Visit tvc.texas.gov/vcso to find your county’s Veterans County Service Officer. Contact information is listed by county.

VCSO vs. TVC Claims Advisor

TVC Veterans Education: Hazlewood Act and GI Bill

TVC’s Veterans Education Department administers the Hazlewood Act and serves as the State Approving Agency for GI Bill programs.

The Hazlewood Act

The Hazlewood Act is a State of Texas benefit that provides qualified Texas veterans, spouses, and dependent children with up to 150 hours of tuition exemption, including most fee charges, at public institutions of higher education in Texas.

What Hazlewood Covers:

• Tuition

• Most mandatory fees

What Hazlewood Does NOT Cover:

• Living expenses

• Books

• Supply fees

Hazlewood Eligibility for Veterans

To qualify for Hazlewood benefits as a veteran, you must:

• Be a Texas resident

• Have served at least 181 days of active duty (excluding initial entry training)

• Have an honorable discharge

• Have exhausted federal VA education benefits (or have none dedicated to tuition and fees)

• Have entered active duty in Texas or listed Texas as home of record

Hazlewood Legacy Act

The Hazlewood Legacy Act allows veterans to transfer unused Hazlewood hours to their dependent children. Eligible children may receive up to 150 hours of tuition exemption.

How to Apply for Hazlewood

Step 1: Apply for admission to a Texas public college or university.

Step 2: Complete the Hazlewood application through the TVC website or your school’s financial aid office.

Step 3: Submit required documents:

• DD-214

• Certificate of Eligibility for GI Bill benefits (if applicable)

• Proof of Texas residency

• VA Summary of Benefits letter

Step 4: The school verifies eligibility and applies the exemption.

Step 5: TVC reimburses the institution for eligible expenses.

GI Bill State Approving Agency

TVC serves as the State Approving Agency for GI Bill programs in Texas. In this role, TVC:

• Approves institutions and programs for VA education benefits

• Provides oversight and consumer protection

• Resolves complaints about GI Bill use

• Assists schools with VA compliance

Required Documents for Education Benefits

TVC Veterans Employment Services

TVC’s Veterans Employment Services (VES) assists veterans with finding long-term, meaningful employment through job matching, career counseling, and employer outreach.

What Veterans Employment Services Offers

• One-on-one career counseling

• Job matching with veteran-friendly employers

• Resume and interview preparation

• Education and training guidance

• Referrals to vocational rehabilitation

• Priority service at Texas Workforce Solutions offices

Where to Find TVC Employment Services

TVC VES teams operate in 90 locations across Texas, including 70 American Job Centers (Texas Workforce Solutions offices). Veteran Services Representatives serve in all 28 Local Workforce Development Areas.

Who Qualifies for Employment Services

TVC employment services are available to:

• All Texas veterans

• Eligible veteran spouses

• Transitioning service members

Federal law places restrictions on spouses’ eligibility for certain services. Contact TVC for specific eligibility questions.

Employment Services Impact

During Fiscal Year 2023, TVC Veteran Services Representatives:

• Provided 16,782 employment services to 4,286 unique customers

• Reached out to 9,931 employers to support veteran hiring

• Achieved a veteran unemployment rate of 2.8% in Texas by August 2023

How to Access Employment Services

Step 1: Visit tvc.texas.gov/employment to find your local office.

Step 2: Contact your local Veterans Career Advisor or Veteran Services Representative.

Step 3: Complete an intake assessment to identify your employment barriers and goals.

Step 4: Develop a personalized employment plan.

Step 5: Receive ongoing job search support and placement assistance.

TVC Veterans Mental Health Department

TVC’s Veterans Mental Health Department (VMHD) addresses veteran mental health needs at the state and local levels through grants, training, and suicide prevention initiatives.

Veterans Mental Health Grant Program

The VMH Grant Program provides counseling and support to veterans, dependents, and surviving spouses who live in Texas. The program includes three service categories:

1. Clinical Counseling Services — Evidence-based treatment for trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use, and adjustment disorders

2. Peer Support Services — Support from trained veterans who understand military culture

3. Service Dog Program — Pilot program providing service dogs to veterans

Eligible Beneficiaries

• Veterans

• Dependents

• Surviving spouses

• Must reside in Texas

Clinical Counseling Services

Counseling is provided by Texas Licensed Mental Health Professionals (LMHPs) using Evidence-Based Practices (EBPs), including:

• Prolonged Exposure (PE)

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Motivational Interviewing

Suicide Prevention

TVC’s suicide prevention initiatives include:

• Faith & Allegiance Initiative — Training faith-based and community organizations to support veterans

• Military Veteran Peer Network — Peer-to-peer support across Texas

• Veteran Provider Training Program — Training providers on military culture and trauma

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Veterans press “1” for dedicated support

• Crisis Text Line — Text “838255” to connect

Crisis Resources:

• Call 9-8-8 (press “1” for Veterans)

• Text “838255” to chat

• Call 9-1-1 or go to nearest emergency room for immediate medical assistance

How to Apply for Mental Health Grants

Mental health grants are awarded through the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance. Organizations apply through the online Grants Portal (Fluxx). Applications open in Fall each year.

TVC Veteran Entrepreneur Program

The Veteran Entrepreneur Program (VEP) supports veteran entrepreneurs and veteran-owned small businesses throughout their entrepreneurial journey.

Services Offered

• Veteran Verification Letters (for state benefits)

• Business plan development

• Financing guidance

• Marketing research and strategies

• Government contracting assistance

• Exit strategies

• Business partner referrals

State Benefits for Veteran-Owned Businesses

Texas provides significant advantages for veteran entrepreneurs:

• Waived filing fees for new veteran-owned business entities

• Texas Franchise Tax exemption for the first five years

• Veteran Owned Business Certification

VEP Impact

Since January 1, 2025, TVC VEP has provided 6,164 qualifying veterans with Veteran Verification Letters, making them eligible for state benefits for new veteran-owned businesses.

How to Access VEP Services

Step 1: Visit tvc.texas.gov/entrepreneurs.

Step 2: Submit a request for assistance. Average response time is 14 business days.

Step 3: Meet with a Veteran Business Consultant.

Step 4: Receive a personalized roadmap for your business.

Step 5: Get connected with financing, legal, and marketing resources.

Eligibility for VEP

VEP services are available to:

• Veterans

• Veteran spouses

• Must be starting or growing a business in Texas

Fund for Veterans’ Assistance: Grants for Organizations

The Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) administers grants to organizations that serve Texas veterans and their families. TVC awards grants in five categories.

Grant Categories

Eligible Grant Applicants

• Units of local government

• IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofits

• IRS 501(c)(19) veterans organizations

• Posts or organizations of past or present Armed Forces members

How to Apply for FVA Grants

Step 1: Create an account in the Grants Portal (Fluxx).

Step 2: Review the Request for Applications (RFA) for the current grant cycle.

Step 3: Submit your application electronically through Fluxx by the deadline.

Step 4: Attend the RFA Q&A webinar (optional but recommended).

Step 5: Await funding recommendations and Commission award meeting.

Grant Application Timeline

• September/October: Application portal opens

• November: Application deadline (5:00 PM CST)

• January: Eligible application presentation meeting

• March: Funding recommendation meeting

• May: Grant award Commission meeting

Housing for Texas Heroes

The Housing for Texas Heroes grant program addresses housing stability for veterans through:

• Mortgage payment assistance (up to 6 months or $6,000 per household)

• Rent payment assistance

• Utility payment assistance

• Home modification for accessibility and safety

• Homeless veteran support

Financial Assistance Limits

• Mortgage: Up to 6 months or $6,000 per beneficiary household per grant period

• Rent: Similar limits

• Utilities: Water, gas, garbage, electricity

TVC Women Veterans Program

The Texas Women Veterans Program ensures women veterans have equitable access to federal and state veterans’ benefits and services.

What the Program Does

• Educates women veterans about their benefits

• Advocates on their behalf

• Creates public awareness

• Recognizes and honors women veterans

• Identifies needs and makes legislative recommendations

Women Veterans Coordinators

TVC Women Veterans Coordinators work across Texas connecting women veterans with benefits, resources, careers, and community support. All coordinators are veterans themselves.

Coordinators by Region:

• South Texas: Sharron Stewart

• West Texas: Melissa Harcrow

• Houston area: Dolores Mendiola

Texas Women Veterans Statistics

• Texas is home to more than 200,000 women veterans

• Women veterans are entitled to the same benefits as male counterparts

How to Connect with the Women Veterans Program

• Visit tvc.texas.gov/women

• Contact a Women Veterans Coordinator

• Attend Women Veterans Day events (June 12)

• Participate in Team Lioness Luncheons

TVC Justice Involved Veterans Program

The Justice Involved Veteran (JIV) Program improves veteran services across the criminal justice continuum.

What the JIV Program Does

• Provides technical assistance and training to Veterans Treatment Courts across Texas

• Partners with law enforcement to deliver trauma-informed training

• Collaborates with jails and prisons to ensure incarcerated veterans access veteran-specific services

• Operates the Veterans Sequential Intercept Model (V-SIM)

Veterans Treatment Courts

Veterans Treatment Courts (VTCs) provide an alternative to incarceration for veterans whose criminal behavior stems from substance abuse or mental health issues related to military service.

VTC Services May Include:

• Case management

• Individualized treatment plans

• Substance abuse detection

• Financial assistance for rent, mortgage, and utilities

• Transportation assistance

• Restorative dental

• Drop-in child care

• Referrals for additional support services

How to Access JIV Services

If you are a justice-involved veteran:

Step 1: Contact your local Veterans Treatment Court.

Step 2: Request a veteran-specific assessment.

Step 3: Work with court staff to develop a treatment plan.

Step 4: Access services through VTC grant funding.

Other TVC Programs and Services

Veterans Preference

TVC administers the Veterans Preference program, which provides preference in state hiring for veterans and surviving spouses.

Re-Employment After Military Service

TVC assists veterans returning to civilian employment after military service, including help with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).

Cell Phones for Soldiers

TVC partners with Cell Phones for Soldiers to provide smartphones to eligible veterans, reducing isolation and connecting veterans to family, support networks, and employment opportunities.

Transition Assistance Program

TVC participates in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP), helping service members learn about employment, education, entrepreneurship, financial planning, and veterans’ benefits before leaving the military.

How to Apply for TVC Services

TVC services are free and available to all eligible Texas veterans, dependents, and surviving spouses.

General Application Process

Step 1: Identify the Service You Need
Determine which TVC program fits your needs: claims, education, employment, mental health, entrepreneurship, or grants.

Step 2: Contact TVC

• Call 800-252-VETS (8387)

• Email info@tvc.texas.gov

• Visit tvc.texas.gov

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
For claims assistance, appointments are required at most locations.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Bring your DD-214, medical records, and any prior VA correspondence.

Step 5: Meet with a TVC Representative
Work with a Claims Benefit Advisor, Veterans Career Advisor, or Education Specialist.

Step 6: Follow Through
Complete any forms, provide requested documentation, and attend follow-up appointments.

Required Documents by Service

Contact Information

Common Questions

What is the Texas Veterans Commission?

The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) is the state agency that helps Texas veterans, their families, and survivors access federal and state benefits. TVC provides free claims assistance, education benefits administration (including the Hazlewood Act), employment services, mental health programs, entrepreneurship support, and grant funding for veterans’ organizations.

Who is eligible for TVC services?

TVC services are available to Texas veterans, dependents, and surviving spouses. Some programs have specific eligibility requirements, such as the Hazlewood Act (181 days of active duty, Texas residency) or employment services (veterans and eligible spouses). Claims assistance has no income limits.

Are TVC services free?

Yes. All TVC services are free, including claims assistance, Hazlewood Act administration, employment services, entrepreneurship support, and mental health resources. TVC does not charge veterans for any service.

How do I apply for VA disability compensation through TVC?

Contact TVC at 800-252-VETS (8387) or visit a claims office. A Claims Benefit Advisor will conduct an initial interview, help you sign a power of attorney, gather evidence, and submit your claim to the VA. TVC also assists with appeals if your claim is denied.

What is the Hazlewood Act?

The Hazlewood Act is a State of Texas benefit that provides qualified Texas veterans, spouses, and dependent children with up to 150 hours of tuition exemption, including most fee charges, at public institutions of higher education in Texas. It does not cover living expenses, books, or supply fees.

How do I qualify for the Hazlewood Act?

To qualify as a veteran, you must: be a Texas resident, have served at least 181 days of active duty (excluding initial entry training), have an honorable discharge, have exhausted federal VA education benefits, and have entered active duty in Texas or listed Texas as home of record.

What employment services does TVC offer?

TVC Veterans Employment Services provides one-on-one career counseling, job matching, resume preparation, interview coaching, education and training guidance, and referrals. Services are available in 90 locations across Texas, including 70 American Job Centers.

What mental health resources does TVC offer?

TVC’s Veterans Mental Health Department provides grant-funded counseling, peer support, and suicide prevention programs. The VMH Grant Program funds clinical counseling, peer support services, and a service dog pilot. Crisis resources include 9-8-8 (press 1 for Veterans) and texting “838255.”

How do I apply for a TVC grant?

Organizations apply for FVA grants through the online Grants Portal (Fluxx). The application window opens in September/October and closes in November. Eligible applicants include units of local government, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(19) veterans organizations.

What is the Veteran Entrepreneur Program?

The Veteran Entrepreneur Program (VEP) supports veteran entrepreneurs and veteran-owned small businesses with business plan development, financing guidance, marketing research, government contracting assistance, and referrals. VEP also provides Veteran Verification Letters for state benefits.

Does TVC help surviving spouses?

Yes. TVC provides claims assistance to surviving spouses for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), death pension, and burial benefits. Surviving spouses may also qualify for Hazlewood Act benefits and other state programs.

How do I find my local TVC office?

Visit tvc.texas.gov and use the office locator. TVC has more than 30 claims offices statewide, most collocated in VA medical centers, outpatient clinics, or military bases. You can also call 800-252-VETS (8387).

What is a Veterans County Service Officer?

A Veterans County Service Officer (VCSO) is a locally appointed official who helps veterans file claims and access benefits at the county level. State law requires counties with populations over 200,000 to employ a VCSO. There are VCSOs in 242 of 254 Texas counties.

Can active-duty service members use TVC services?

Yes. Active-duty service members who are Texas residents can access TVC services, including transition assistance, employment services, and education benefits information. TVC also helps with pre-discharge claims.

What is the TVC Fund for Veterans’ Assistance?

The Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) administers grants to organizations that serve Texas veterans and their families. TVC awards grants in five categories: General Assistance, Housing for Texas Heroes, Veterans Mental Health, Veterans Treatment Courts, and Veterans County Service Officer funding.

Key Takeaways

• The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) is the state agency that serves Texas veterans, dependents, and surviving spouses with free claims assistance, education benefits, employment services, mental health programs, and entrepreneurship support.

• TVC claims assistance is free and available at more than 30 offices statewide, most collocated in VA medical centers and military bases. Call 800-252-VETS (8387) to get started.

• The Hazlewood Act provides up to 150 hours of tuition exemption at Texas public colleges and universities for qualifying veterans, spouses, and dependent children.

• TVC Veterans Employment Services operates in 90 locations across Texas, including 70 American Job Centers, helping veterans find meaningful employment.

• The Veterans Mental Health Grant Program funds counseling, peer support, and service dog programs for veterans, dependents, and surviving spouses in Texas.

• The Veteran Entrepreneur Program has provided 6,164 Veteran Verification Letters since January 2025, helping veteran-owned businesses access state benefits.

• The Fund for Veterans’ Assistance awards grants in five categories to organizations that serve veterans, including housing assistance, mental health, and treatment courts.

• 242 of 254 Texas counties have a Veterans County Service Officer who provides local claims assistance.

• The Women Veterans Program connects over 200,000 Texas women veterans with benefits, resources, and community support.

• All TVC services are free. Contact TVC at 800-252-VETS (8387) or visit tvc.texas.gov to get started.

Official Resources

Texas Veterans Commission Resources

• TVC Official Website: https://tvc.texas.gov

• TVC Claims Assistance: https://tvc.texas.gov/claims

• TVC Veterans Education: https://tvc.texas.gov/education

• TVC Veterans Employment: https://tvc.texas.gov/employment

• TVC Veterans Mental Health: https://tvc.texas.gov/mental-health

• TVC Veteran Entrepreneur Program: https://tvc.texas.gov/entrepreneurs

• TVC Fund for Veterans’ Assistance: https://tvc.texas.gov/grants

• TVC Women Veterans Program: https://tvc.texas.gov/women

• TVC VCSO Directory: https://tvc.texas.gov/vcso

• TVC Claims Helpline: 800-252-VETS (8387)

• TVC Email: info@tvc.texas.gov

Government Resources

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.va.gov

• VA Disability Compensation: https://www.va.gov/disability

• VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/health

• VA Benefits Forms: https://www.va.gov/find-forms

• Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov

• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov

• Medicaid: https://www.medicaid.gov

• USA.gov Veterans Services: https://www.usa.gov/veterans

• Texas Workforce Commission: https://www.twc.texas.gov

• Texas Health and Human Services: https://www.hhs.texas.gov

Veterans Service Organizations

• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW): https://www.vfw.org

• American Legion: https://www.legion.org

• Disabled American Veterans (DAV): https://www.dav.org

• Paralyzed Veterans of America: https://www.pva.org

• Wounded Warrior Project: https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org

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