Contacts
Small Business Development
Economic Development Resources
Local Service Centers
Major Portals to Job and Career-Related Assistance
Job Training and Credentials
Continuing Education Financial Support
Starting A New Business
BRAC Transition Assistance for DOD Civilian Employees
Military Spouses
Veterans
Health Care and Health Insurance
Housing Needs
Unemployment Insurance
Social Security Benefits
Pension Benefits
1. Small Business Development Centers
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov/sbdc
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) administers the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Program and provides management assistance to current and prospective small business owners. SBDCs offer one-stop assistance to individuals and small businesses through a wide variety of information and guidance in central and easily accessible branch locations. The Web site above provides more information, including how to contact state branches.
2. Small Business Training Network
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov/training
The Small Business Training Network, sponsored by the Office of Entrepreneurial Development, is a virtual campus housing free training courses, workshops and knowledge resources. This network is designed to assist entrepreneurs and other students of enterprise. The above Web site provides a direct link to the network.
3. Office of Business and Community Initiatives
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov/bi
The Office of Business and Community Initiatives co-sponsors private sector partners who provide small business owners with information, education and training that is cost-effective, of high quality and reflects trends in small business development. The above Web site provides more information on the Office.
4. Small Businesses: Workforce Consortia Provide Needed Services
U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO)
www.gao.gov/new.items/d0280.pdf
This site provides lesions from the practices of four workforce development consortia serving the needs of small businesses.
1. Economic Development Administration
U.S. Department of Commerce
www.eda.gov
The Economic Development Administration’s (EDA’s) Web site (see URL above) provides information on grants for infrastructure development, local capacity building, and business development. EDA helps economically distressed communities alleviate conditions of substantial and persistent unemployment and underemployment.
2. Economic Development Programs
U.S. Department of Commerce
www.eda.gov/abouteda/programs.xml
Communities economically impacted by major base closures or realignments may be eligible for funding under the Economic Development Administration’s (EDA’s) Planning, Technical Assistance and Public Works programs. These grants provide substantial funds for a range of services including: infrastructure development, technology initiatives, revolving loan funds and other economic development strategies. More information is available at the above Web site.
3. USDA Service Centers/Rural Development Centers
U.S. Department of Agriculture
http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app or www.rurdev.usda.gov
Rural Development centers help businesses obtain the financial and technical assistance needed to address their diverse and unique needs. These offices offer grants, loans, and loan guarantees. Rural Development achieves its mission by helping rural individuals, communities and businesses obtain the financial and technical assistance needed to address their diverse and unique needs. USDA Rural Development’s main programs are as follows: Single Family Housing Programs, Multi-Family Housing Programs, Community Facility Programs, Water and Waste Programs, Utility Programs, and Business Programs. Rural Development has 47 state offices, 467 local offices, and 198 area offices. Contact information can be found at the Web site above.
1. Kansas City Full Employment Council (FEC)
Kansas City Full Employment Council
www.feckc.org
FEC offices and One-Stop centers offer a wide range of employment and training services for the Kansas City region. This website provides information and contacts for assessing skill levels and interests, provides various kinds of on-the-job and classroom training as well as assistance in the job search and referral process.
2. One-Stop Career Centers
U.S. Department of Labor
www.servicelocator.org
1-877-US2-JOBS (TTY: 1-877-899-5627
One-Stop Career Centers are resources for job seekers and employers. They offer a wide array of employment, training, and education services. There are approximately 3,400 One-Stop Career Centers located throughout the United States. Center contact information can be found at the Web site or by calling the toll free phone number listed above.
3. Family Support/Service Centers
U.S. Department of Defense
http://deploymentlink.osd.mil/deploy/family/family_support.shtml
Family Support/Service Centers are a comprehensive support network designed to enhance the lives of soldiers (active, Reserve, and Guard), their families, civilian employees, military retirees and other eligible participants. These centers, which are located all over the world and in different branches of the military, vary in the kind of services offered. Center contact information can be found at the Web site above.
4. USDA Service Centers/Rural Development Centers
U.S. Department of Agriculture
http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app
Rural Development Centers help businesses obtain the financial and technical assistance needed to address their diverse and unique needs. Centers are located in almost every state. Rural Development has 47 State offices, 467 local offices, and 198 area offices. Center contact information can be found at the Web site above.
5. Small Business Development Centers
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov/sbdc/sbdcnear.html\
1-800-8-ASK-SBA or 1-202-205-7333(TTY).
Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) provide individuals and small businesses with a wide variety of information and services, including counseling, training and technical assistance in all aspects of small business management.
SBDCs target their efforts to veterans, among other groups. Lead SBDCs are in every state, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands – with a network of more than 1100 service locations. Center contact information can be found at the Web site or by calling the toll free phone number listed above.
6. Vocational Rehabilitation State Offices
U.S. Department of Education and State Agencies
www.jan.wvu.edu/sbses/vocrehab.htm
State vocational rehabilitation offices provide a wealth of resources related to employment options for people with disabilities and generally provide services at a network of locations throughout each state. Office contact information can be found at the Web site listed above.
7. Veteran Affairs Facilities
www.1.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp?isFlash=1
1-800-827-1000
Department of Veterans affairs (VA) facilities assist veterans preparing for, finding, and keeping suitable employment. There are 1155 VA facilities in the United States. More information about vocational rehabilitation and employment services for disabled veterans is available at the Web site or by calling the toll-free telephone number listed above.
8. Social Security
Social Security Administration
www.socialsecurity.gov/locator-replace
The Social Security Administration provides a wealth of information about Social Security benefits, a monthly income support that may be available to individuals upon retirement. Service centers are located in every state. Local office addresses and contact information can be found at the Web site above.
9. Minority Business Development Agency
U.S. Department of Commerce
www.mbda.gov
202-482-6022
The Minority Business Development Agency funds Business Development Centers around the country to assist with starting-up, expanding and developing minority-owned firms and providing individualized management and technical assistance to minority entrepreneurs at every stage of business development. Centers are located in the Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, New York and San Francisco regional areas, totaling about 39 centers. Addresses and contact information can be found at the Web site or by calling the phone number listed above.
10. Community Health Centers
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
http://ask.hrsa.gov/pc/
Community Health Centers offer access to comprehensive primary and preventative health care and focus primarily on low-income and underserved individuals. Community centers are located in every state. Contact information for health centers in local areas and related general information can be found at the Web site above.
1. GreatHires JobCrawler
Missouri Division of Workforce Development/Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC)
www.greathirescrawler.org
The GreatHires JobCrawle provides the job seeker immediate access to detailed information on thousands of jobs from a variety of online job banks, corporate web sites, regional hospitals, local newspapers, and government sites. GreatHires JobCrawler also serves as a Labor Market Information delivery system by fully integrating MERIC’s ALMIS data into a customer-friendly interface. This delivery system is designed to assist job seekers in selecting an appropriate career and in finding jobs and training opportunities.
2. State of Missouri Labor Exchange
Missouri Division of Workforce Development
www.greathires.org
This website is Missouri’s online job matching service for searching and applying for jobs. The links on this site provide tips on time management, assessing your strengths, and researching the job market. GreatHires also features a system that immediately links you to thousands of jobs from a variety of online job banks, corporate web sites and government sites.
3. State of Kansas Labor Exchange
Kansas Department of Commerce
www.kansasjoblink.com
This website is Kansas’s job searching website that provides regional labor market information, links to various employer and job seeker services, and a variety of tools for researching training providers and job search information.
4.. CareerOne-Stop Portal
U.S. Department of Labor
www.careerOneStop.org
The CareerOne-Stop Portal (COS) provides access to all of the One-Stop Career Center electronic tools Web sites: America’s Job Bank, America’s Career InfoNet, and America’s Service Locator. These tools connect users to revenant links, resources and community services offered over the Internet. The tools also direct users to other relevant information and services provided through these core products. Details on COS core products are provided below. The Web site listed above also includes a gateway to access state and local resources.
5. BRAC Coach
U.S. Department of Labor
www.brac-coach.org
To further aid communities impacted by BRAC action, Department of Labor has created this online tool to assist workers, businesses, and workforce professionals who may be impacted by a local base realignment or closure. The BRAC Coach identifies common issues or problems facing those likely to be impacted by BRAC and provides step by step instructions to help users find resources and related information.
6. Military Spouse Resource Center
Sponsored by U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. Department of Labor
www.milspouse.org
The Military Spouse Resource Center is a Web site that supports the career aspirations of military spouse jobseekers, particularly those in the midst of a permanent change of station. This Web site is free and available to spouses from all military departments, veterans, the national Guard and Reserve, and the Coast Guard. The Web site contains over 2,500 information and resource links that assist with job searching, career planning, training, scholarships, and other educational opportunities. It also includes specific information regarding local military installations and the communities in which they reside, including childcare and transportation.
7. GovBenefits.gov
Partnership between Federal Agencies
www.govbenefits.gov/govbenefits/benefits/browse.jhtml
This Web site is the gateway to federal and state benefits information on continuing education and training, financial support programs, disability assistance, grants, scholarships, health care, socials security, child care, housing, volunteer activities, plus many more. Users can browse benefits by category and specific government agency and search at the federal and state level. In turn, users are provided with choices to search topics by population and/or interests.
1. State of Missouri Labor Exchange
Missouri Division of Workforce Development
www.greathires.org
This website is Missouri’s online job matching service for searching and applying for jobs. The links on this site provide tips on time management, assessing your strengths, and researching the job market. GreatHires also features a system that immediately links you to thousands of jobs from a variety of online job banks, corporate web sites and government sites.
2. State of Kansas Labor Exchange
Kansas Department of Commerce
www.kansasjoblink.com
This website is Kansas’s job searching website that provides regional labor market information, links to various employer and job seeker services, and a variety of tools for researching training providers and job search information.
3. One-Stop Career Centers
US Department of Labor
www.servicelocator.org
1-877-US2-JOBS (TTY: 1-877-899-5627
One-Stop Career Centers provide BRAC impacted job seekers with access to a wide array of services, including the initial assessment of skills and abilities, self-help information relating to career exploration and skill requirements of various occupations, consumer report information on the performance of local education and training providers, and quality labor market information. The Web site or phone number listed above can be used to locate a One-Stop Career Center in nearly any community in the U.S.
4. Occupational Licensing
U.S. Department of Labor
www.careerinfonet.org/acinet/licensedoccupations/lois_state.asp
States require individuals to have an occupational license in order to legally practice the same occupations. This site helps customers learn about licensing requirements in each state.
5. Certification Finder
U.S. Department of Labor
www.acinet.org/acinet/certifications_new/cert_search_occupation.asp?by=occ&id=14,nodeid=17
Occupational certifications evaluate or enhance knowledge and skills concerning a particular occupation. This directory allows users to search for certifications by keyword, industry or occupational area.
6. Individualized Training Account (ITA)
U.S. Department of Labor
www.servicelocator.org or 1 (877) USA-2JOBS: 1-877-889-5627(TTY)
Individuals over 18 and in need of updating skills or retaining may be eligible for an Individualized Training Account (ITA). An ITA can be used to subsidize training through an appropriate and approved training program. To find out more about ITAs, contact the local One-Stop Career Center. To find a local One-Stop Career Center, go to Web site or call a toll-free assistance number above.
7. Licenses and Certifications Relevant to Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs)/Army Credentialing Opportunities On-Line
U.S. Department of Defense
www.coo.army.mil
The Army Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL|) Web site provides information on licenses and certifications relevant to Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs). Civilians can also access this information by searching MOS titles that seem comparable to their civilian occupation. This site helps soldiers and potential military recruits translate their military occupational specialties into civilian credentials, understand what it takes to obtain the credentials, and see if there are available programs that will help pay credentialing fees.
8. GovBenefits.gov
Partnership Among Federal Agencies
www.govbenefits.gov/govbenefits/benefits/browse.jhtml
This Web site is the gateway to federal and state benefits information on continuing education and training, financial support programs, certification/licenses, plus many more topics. Users can browse benefits by category and specific government agency and search at the federal and state level. Users can also search topics by population and/or interests.
1. Financial Aid Center
U.S. Department of Labor
www.careeronestop.org/financial/FinancialAidHome.asp
This site provides users with information on funding to continue lifelong learning and pay for training to advance career goals.
2. GovBenefits.gov
Partnership between Federal Agencies
www.govbenefits.gov/govbenefits/benefits/browse.jhtml
This Web site is the gateway to federal and state benefits information on continuing education and training, financial support programs, plus many more topics. Users can browse benefits by category and specific government agency and search at the federal and state level. Users can also search topics by population and/or interests.
3. Think college
U.S. Department of Education
www.ed.gov/students/prep/college/thinkcollege/return/edlite-index.html
This Web site helps middle school and high school students, and adults returning to school learn more about the many different types of school and financial aid options available to them. These include diploma, certificate, and degree programs.
4. Traineeships
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Through traineeship grants, the U.S. Department of health and Human Services provides funds to colleges and universities that then fund scholarships in health professions. The Web sites listed below provide information about these grants, including links to grantees that have scholarships available.
http://bhpr.hrsa.gov/publichealth/phtrainee.htm
Grant recipients provide traineeships to students in health administration, hospital administration and/or health policy analysis and planning. Traineeship funds may be used to support tuition, fees, stipends and allowances including travel, subsistence expenses and dependency allowances. Students interested in applying for a health administration traineeship should contact the grant contacts listed on the Web site.
• Health Professions Grants
http://bhpr.hrsa.gov/grants
The Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) Health Professions grants and cooperative agreements support innovations and targeted expansions in health professions education and training. Emphasis is on increasing the diversity of the health care workforce and preparing health care providers to serve diverse populations and to practice in the nation’s 3,000 medically underserved communities. Eligibility and application information is located at the above Web site.
5. Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
U.S. Department of Education
www.fafsa.ed.gov
1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243) : 1-800730-8913(TTY)
All of the following loan and grant programs require applicants to first complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will calculate the individuals effective family contribution. Schools use this information to determine actual financial aid packages. Apply for federal student aid via the Web site or call the toll-free number above. The following is a list of funds available through FAFSA.
• Federal Direct Student Loan
• Federal Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
• Federal Pell Grants
• Federal Perkins Loan
• Federal Subsidized Student Loans ( Stafford)
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants
• Federal Unsubsidized Student Loans ( Stafford)
• Federal Student Consolidation Loans
6. Occupational and Employment Information State Grants
U.S. Department of Education
www.federalgrantswire.com/vocations_educationoccupational_and_employment_information_state_grants.html
This site provides links to Web sites on various Occupational and Employment Information State Grants. These grants promote an individual’s improved career and education decision making. Some of these sites also provide and support: 1) Professional development and other resources to teachers, administrators, and counselors intended to assist students and parents with career exploration, educational opportunities, and education financing; 2) Information and planning resources that relate educational preparation to career goals and expectations; and 3) Career guidance and academic counseling programs;
7. State Grant Agencies
U.S. Department of Education
www.ed.gov/offices/OSFAP/Students/other.html
This site lists state grant agencies and departments of education which offer more information about financial aid specific to each state.
8. Education Tax Benefits
U.S. Department of Treasury
www.jrs.gov/pub/irs=pdf/p970.pdf
1-800-829-1040
The Internal Revenue Service offers tax benefits to offset some of the costs of higher educations. To qualify for this benefit program, an individual must have educational needs and be a taxpayer who is interested in receiving tax information and tax return preparation assistance. For more information, see the publication at the Web site or call the IRS help line listed above.
9. NIH Health Care Education Loan Repayment Programs
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
www.lrp.nih.gov/about/index.htm
This site provides information about repaying educational loans for participants with substantial educational debt relative to income. To qualify for these programs, applicants must be health care professionals and U.S. nationals, citizens, dual citizens or permanent residents who are qualified, certified, and/or licensed in laboratory or clinical research or have nursing degrees. Following is a list of programs this site offers: Clinical Research Loan Repayment Program for Individuals from Disadvantaged Backgrounds.
• Clinical Research Loan Repayment Program
• Health Disparities Research Loan Repayment Program
• Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program
• National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment
• Nursing student Loan program
1. Rural Development Office
U.S. Department of Agriculture
www.rurdev.usda.gov
This site provides information about the various programs United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers. The USDA has Rural Development Offices in almost every state. They help businesses obtain the financial and technical assistance needed to address their diverse and unique needs. More information about the resources available to small businesses, and how to access them is available at the Web site listed above.
2. Minority Business Development Agency
U.S. Department of Commerce
www.mbda.gov
202-482-6022
The Minority Business Development Agency funds Business Development Centers around the country to assist with the start-up, expansion and development of minority-owned firs. In turn, the funded centers provide individualized management and technical assistance to minority entrepreneurs at every stage of business development. The Web site provides four types of services: Access to Markets, Access to Capital, Management and Technical Assistance, and Education and Training.
3. Small Business Administration (SBA)
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov/starting_business/index.html
This site provides basic preparation techniques for starting, planning, marketing, and financing a new business. Each state has at least one SBA district office, with multiple resource partners to support the needs of the small business community.
4. Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov/sbdc/sbdcnear.html
1-800-8-ASK-SBA or 1-202-205-7333 (TTY)
Small Business Development Centers offer one-stop assistance to individuals and small businesses by providing a wide variety of information and guidance in central and easily accessible branch locations. There are 63 Lead (SBDCs) – at least one in every state, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands – and a network of more than 1100 service locations. The Web site or toll free phone number listed above can provide contact information for service locations.
5. Section 8(a) Business Development
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov/aboutrsba/dis_offices.html
202-205-6417
The Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) Section 8 (a) Business Development program provides technical assistance to socially and economically disadvantaged entrepreneurs who have been in business for at least tow years. Individuals can apply to the 8(a) program by contacting their state’s SBA district office. This contact can be made by using the Web site or by calling the phone number listed above.
6. Basic 7 (a) Loan Guaranty
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov/financing/sbaloan/7a.htm
The Small business Administration (SBA) offers numerous loan programs to assist small businesses. The Basic 7(a) Loan Guaranty can help qualified small businesses obtain start-up financing when they might not be eligible for business loans through traditional lending channels. SBA offers multiple variations of the basic 7(a) loan program to accommodate targeted needs. This Web site provides the programs’ basic criteria and contact information for applying.
7. Small Business Self-Employment Service (SBSES)
U.S. Small Business Administration
http://janweb.icdi.wvu.edu/sbses
The Small Business Self-Employment Service (SBSES) offers comprehensive counseling and referrals that support self-employment and small business ownership opportunities for people with disabilities. This Web site provides general information on SBSES and a list of resources. It also includes a link to the Job Accommodation network, which is a national tool-free consulting service that provides information about job accommodations and the employability of people with disabilities.
8. Small Business Loans
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov/financing/svaloan/snapshot.html
This Web site provides a snap shot of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) loan programs to assist small businesses. SBA also offers an online women’s business center that can be assessed through (www.onlinewbc.gov). This site provides resource information and links to help women start and run successful businesses, regardless of social or financial disadvantage, race, ethnicity or business background.
9. Women’s Business Ownership Assistance
U.S. Small Business Administration and U.S. Department of Labor
www.women-21.gov
This Web site is a one-stop federal resource for women business owners. It provides targeted information, online programs, and networking opportunities to help women entrepreneurs navigate the ever-changing business world.
10. One-Stop Career Centers
U.S. Department of Labor
www.servicelocator.org
1-877-US2-JOBS (TTY: 1-877-899-5627)
One-Stop Career Centers provide specialized information and assistance for individuals starting new businesses. Entrepreneurs can access the wide array of services, including screening job applicants, information relating to career exploration and skill requirements of various occupations, consumer report information on the performance of local education and training providers, and quality labor market information. The Web site and toll-free number listed above can identify which One-Stop Career Center offers help in starting new businesses and provide contact information for One-Stop Career Centers throughout the United States.
11. Unemployment Insurance/Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEA)
U.S. Department of Labor
http://ows.doleta.gov/map.asp
This site provides a map with links to help unemployed persons locate the nearest unemployment insurance (UI) agency. UI claimants may qualify for assistance through the Self-Employment Assistance (SEA) Program, which is administered by state unemployment insurance agencies. The SEA program offers biweekly allowances and training and technical assistance to participants who are working full-time on starting their own business instead of looking for a job. Claimants should contact their state unemployment insurance agency to find out about availability and eligibility criteria in their state.
12. Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
Nonprofit Organization
www.score.org
This Web site provides online counseling services and referrals to address questions or concerns in starting a new business. SCORE advertises itself as “Counselors to America’s Small Business.” It is a nonprofit association dedicated to providing entrepreneurs with free, confidential face-to-face and email business counseling.
1. Civilian Personnel Management Services (CPMS)/Civilian Assistance and Re-Employment (CARE)
U.S. Department of Defense
http://www.cpms.osd.mil
Through CPMS, DOD administers the Civilian Assistance and Re-Employment (CARE) Program, which is the Department’s primary means to provide transition assistance to displaced civilian employees. The CARE Program consists of job placement programs, voluntary separation incentives, and other benefits and services. CARE also provides direct program assistance to DOD activities affected by downsizing or reorganization. This Web site provides a wealth of information and links to other Web sites that will help users learn more about the various tools available to minimize involuntary separations including:
2. BRAC Transition Assistance
U.S. Department of Defense
http://www.cpms.osd.mil/bractransition
The Department of Defense is committed to providing civilian employees affected by Bas Realignment and Closure (BRAC) maximum assistance to continue Federal careers or pursue other endeavors. This Web site provides employees, managers, supervisors, and human resources specialists the latest information on BRAC. It also provides information on the transition assistance programs offered by the Department and other Federal agencies. In addition, it addresses frequently asked questions concerning BRAC and the Department’s transition programs, and provides links to Web sites that will help employees learn more about BRAC, transition assistance programs, and employment opportunities.
3. Priority Placement Program
U.S. Department of Defense
http://www.cpms.osd.mil/bractransition/Job_Placement.htm
The Priority Placement Program is the Department’s principal mechanism for retaining employees who are adversely affected by reduction in force, transfer of function, base realignment and closure, and other downsizing the restructuring actions. Through its Automated Stopper and Referral System (ASARS), the skills of displaced employees are matched with vacant positions at DOD activities in the employees’ selected geographic area of availability. Placements are mandatory when displaced employee’s are found well qualified for the vacant positions. If the new job involves a move to another location, the costs of moving the employee and his/her household are borne by the government in accordance with the Joint Travel Regulations.
4. Re-Employment Priority List (RPL)
U.S. Department of Defense
http://www.cpms.osd.mil/bractransition/Job_Placement.htm
The RPL provides priority reemployment consideration for current and former DoD career and career-conditional competitive serve employees, who are separated by reduction in force (RIF) or have received a RIF separation notice or Certificate of Expected Separation (CES). The RPL is also available to employees who are separated (or who accept a lower graded position instead of separation) due to compensable injury or disability and who fully recover more than one year from the date compensation is payable as described in 5 CFR Parts 330 and 353.
5. Voluntary Separation Incentive Pay (VSIP)
U.S. Department of Defense
http://www.cpms.osd.mil/bractransition/Separation.htm
VSIP allows activities to offer incentive payments, or “buyouts,” of up to $25,000 to encourage DOD employees to resign or retire. Buyouts are targeted to employees in specific grades, series, or locations, and are used to restructure the workforce or to help avoid RIF and minimize involuntary separations.
6. Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA)
U.S. Department of Defense
http://www.cpms.osd.mil/bractransition/Separation.htm
VERA is a management tool used to mitigate the affects of substantial delayering, RIF, reorganization, or transfer of function. Using the VERA, which is also referred to as “early retirement” or “early out,” DoD activities may downsize or restructure the workforce by allowing employees to retire under reduced age and service requirements. To learn more about VERA and other transition assistance tools and benefits, refer to the BRAC Transition web site mentioned above.
1. Military Spouse Resource Center
U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. Department of Labor
www.milspouse.org
The Military Spouse Resource Center is a Web site designed and operated to support the career aspirations of military spouse jobseekers, particularly those in the midst of a permanent change of station. This Web site is free and is available to military spouses from all military departments, veterans, the National Guard and Reserve, and the Coast Guard. The Web site contains over 2,500 information and resource links for military spouses that help with job searching, career planning, training, scholarships and other educational opportunities. The site also contains specific information regarding local military installations and the communities in which they reside, including childcare and transportation.
2. Relocation Information
Sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. Department of Defense
www.milspouse.org/relocate
This Web site provides links to resources that will assist military families that are planning to relocate.
3. Military Spouse Job Search
U.S. Department of Labor
www.militaryspousejobsearch.org
This Web site houses a job search tool that connects military spouses with employers committed to hiring them. Local programs that help military spouses have also been developed through ongoing collaboration between Family Support Centers and One-Stop Career Centers (which are linked to this site).
4. Eligibility for Military Spouses under WIA
U.S. Department of Labor
www.servicelocator.org
1-877-USA-2JOBS: 1-877-889-5627(TTY)
Spouses may be eligible to receive employment and training services as a dislocated worker under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. To determine eligibility, spouses should contact the local One-Stop Career Center by using the Web site or calling the toll-free helpline shown above. When calling the Toll-Free Help Line the individual should identify him/herself as a BRAC impacted worker and as a military spouse in order to find out about additional information and services that may be available.
5. Unemployment Insurance (UI)
U.S. Department of Labor
http://workforcesecurity.d0leta.gov/map.asp
Spouses who have lost jobs due to “permanent change of station” may qualify for UI in a service member’s state. Unemployed military spouses should contact their state UI agency to learn about eligibility and application procedures. State UI agencies’ contact information may be located at the Web site shown above.
6. Military HomeFront
U.S. Department of Defense
www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil
Military Homefront is the central, up-to-date source for service members and families to obtain information about quality of life programs and services. This Web site includes links to forums on issues relevant to military families.
7. Military OneSource
U.S. Department of Defense
www.militaryonesource.com
Stateside: 1-800-342-9747
Overseas: 800-3429-6477
Collect from Overseas: 1-484-530-5908
En español llame al: 1-877-888-0727
TTY/TDD: 800-346-9188
Military OneSource Web site and helpline provides support and resource information 24 hour a day to help military families from personal to professional areas of life.
8. Deployment Family Support
U.S. Department of Defense
http://deploymentlink.osd.mil/deploy/family/family_intro.shtml
Information on this Web site assists service members and their families in preparing for the coping with permanent military moves. It contains family support links for each of the services, information for children, and tools for locating service members and accessing deployment entitlements.
9. Military Spouse Career Center
U.S. Department of Defense
www.military.com/spouse
This Web site provides career information, advice and family support for military spouses.
10. Military Family Research Institute (MFRI)
U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Defense
www.cfs.purdue.edu/mfri
On this Web site, the Military Family Research Institute provides information and insight into the impact of quality of life factors on military personnel and their families. It includes discussion forums and informational pamphlets that help military families to adjust to changing circumstances.
11. National Military Family Association
Nonprofit Organization
www.nmfa.org
Military Homefront is the central, up-to-date source for service members and families to obtain information about quality of life programs and services. This Web site includes links to forums on issues relevant to military families.
1. HireVetsFirst
U.S. Department of Labor
www.hirevetsfirst.gov
This Web site provides information on the Hire Vets First initiative and is tailored to the needs of veterans and employers interested in hiring veterans. It also connects veterans with America’s Service Locator http://www.servicelocator.org/nearest _onestop.asp or 1-877-US2-JOBS) to find their closest One-Stop Career Center for in-person services.
2. Veterans’ Preference Advisor
U.S. Department of Labor
www.dol.gov/elaws/vetspref.htm
www.dol.gov/vets/opportunities/opportunities.htm
These Web sites allow veterans to examine the preferences to which they might be entitled with regard to federal jobs.
3. e-Vet’s Resource Advisor
U.S. Department of Labor
www.dol.gov/elaws/evets.htm
This Web site assists veterans preparing to enter the job market. It also includes information on a broad range of topics such as: job search tools and tips, employment openings, career assessment, education and training, and benefits and special services available to veterans.
4. VetSuccess.gov
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
www.vetsuccess.gov
The purpose of this Web site is to present information about the services that the veterans with service-connected disabilities. The Web site also provides information about vocational counseling available to active duty service members and veterans who have recently separated from active duty.
5. Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
www.vba.va.gov/bln/bre/index.htm
1-800-827-1000
This Web site assists veterans with service-connected disabilities by offering help in preparing for, finding, and keeping suitable employment. For more information about vocational rehabilitation and employment services, disabled veterans should contact the local Department of Veterans Affairs regional office at the national toll-free telephone number above.
6. My HealtheVet
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
www.myhealth.va.gov
This Web site is the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA’s) new health portal for veterans, their advocates, and their families. It provides one-stop shopping for VA benefits, special programs, health information and services, and a health education library that gives up-to-date information about medications and conditions, tools for measuring health status, and the latest health news.
7. The Department of Defense Web Portal for Military Transitioners
U.S. Department of Defense
www.dodtransportal.dod.mil/dav/lsnmedia/LSN/dodtransportal/
The Department of Defense Transportal is a Web site that contains information and resources designed specifically to assist service members leaving active duty. It contains information on transition assistance, a pre-separation guide and information on how to contact transition assistance officers.
8. Employment and Supportive Services
U.S. Department of Defense
http://dod.jobsearch.org
Department of Defense Job Search assists separating service members in their job search by providing an entry to America’s Job Bank. Registering with DOD Job Search will grant access to a nationwide database of veteran-oriented job openings.
9. Department of Veterans Affairs Job Search
U.S. Department of Defense
http://dva.jobsearch.org
This site assist service-members, veterans who have recently separated from active duty, service-connected disabled veterans, and eligible dependents of veterans in their job search by providing an entry to America’s Job Bank.
10. Office of Veteran’s Business Development
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov/vets/index.html
Through this Web site, the Small business Administration (SBA) provides a variety of services to help veterans who are interested in opening and maintaining small businesses to meet SBA requirements and tap SBA supports.
1. GovBenefits.gov
Comprehensive Federal Web site
www.govbenefits.gov
This web site is the gateway to government information on health care, insurance, Medicare and Medicaid, plus many more topics. Users can browse benefits by category and specific government agency and search at the federal and state level. Users can also search topics by population and/or interests.
2. Community Health Centers
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
http://ask.hrsa.gov/pc/
Community Health Centers offer access to comprehensive primary and preventative health care and focus primarily on low-income and underserved individuals. Contact information for health centers in local areas and related general information can be found at the Web site above.
3. Health Resources and Services Administration
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
1-888-ASK HRSA (275-4772)
Publications, resources, and referrals on health care services for low-income, uninsured individuals and those with special health care needs are available through the toll free phone number listed above.
4. Medicaid
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
www.cms.hhs.gov/medicaid
1-877-267-2323, menu option 5
Medicaid is health insurance that helps many people who can’t afford medical care pay for some or all of their medical bills. Medicaid is a state administered program and each state sets its own guidelines regarding eligibility and services. Visit the Web site or call the toll free number listed above to read more about state Medicaid programs.
5. Medicare and the Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Plan
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
www.medicare.gov
1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or 1-877-486-2048 *TTY)
Medicare is the national health insurance program for people age 65 or older and some people with disabilities under age 65. Medicare also covers people with End-State Renal Disease (ESRD), which is permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant. Particularly useful is the Medicare and You handbook that is available at the “Find a Medicare Publication” link on this site. Additional information and state contacts are available at the Web site or by calling the toll-free number above.
6. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
http://pubordering.cms.hhs.gov/mailinglist
A variety of free publications related to Medicare and Medicaid may be obtained by subscribing to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ publication mailing list at the Web site listed above.
www.cms.hhs.gov/partnerships
The CMS Partner Center Web site provides a number of resources on Medicare prescription drug coverage that are helpful to individuals and One-Stop Career Centers. They can be downloaded as PDF files.
7. State Health Insurance Providers (SHIP)
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
www.shiptalk.org
This Web site provides contact information for SHIP counselors. SHIP is a national program that offers one-on-one counseling and assistance to Medicare recipients and their families and provides information about Medicare prescription drug coverage.
8. State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP)
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
www.cms.hhs.gov/home/schip.asp
1-877-267-2323 or 1-866-226-1819 (TTY) or 1-877-543-7669 (Insure Kids Now)
These Web sites and phone lines provide information on low cost health insurance for families and children available through the SCHIP. The “Your State’s Program” link on the Insure Kids Now site provides links to each state’s benefits and eligibility criteria.
9. Medicare Online Coach
U.S. Department of Labor
www.staffcoach.org/medicare
The Medicare Online Coach provides interactive step-by-step instructions to help workforce development professionals quickly identify common issues and questions concerning Medicare prescription drug coverage and other Medicare-related issues. This information helps workforce development professionals assist One-Stop Career Center customers who may be eligible to participate in the program. It also provides direct access to the official Medicare Web site and other government and n0on-profit resources.
10. Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA)
U.S. Department of Labor
www.dol.gov/dol/topic/health-plans/cobra.htm
Upon losing a job, almost all full-time or part-time workers (including those self-employed) and their dependents can obtain or maintain health insurance coverage for at least 18 months under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). COBRA insurance may be a lower cost than buying new health insurance, but the insured will still be required to pay a monthly premium. Individuals must choose COBRA coverage within 60 days after their plan coverage ends. Call or visit the above Web site for more information.
11. Health Coverage Tax Credit
U.S. Department of Treasury
www.irs.gov/individuals/article/o,,id=109915,00.html
1-866-628-HCTC (1-866-628-4282) or 1-866-626-HCTC (TTY)
Customers who have lost a job due to foreign trade and whose layoff is “certified” as trade-related by the government may be eligible for the Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC). The Web site provides information about eligibility requirements and how the HCTC can be claimed.
12. Private Insurance
National Association of Insurance Commissioners
www.naic.org/state_web_map.htm
This Web site provides links to state Department of Insurance Web sites for information regarding purchasing private health insurance.
1. Homeless Assistance (Technical & Financial)
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/homeless/library/milbase/iondex.cfm
For over three decades the Department of Defense has been closing or consolidating domestic military installations to reduce overhead. Communities where these bases were located are charged with the responsibility of finding alternative uses for them once they have been close.
In 1987, Congress passed the McKinney Homeless Assistance Act, which made serving the homeless the first priority for use of all surplus Federal properties, including military facilities. In 1994 the Base Closure Community Redevelopment and Homeless Assistance Act (the Redevelopment Act) was passed, superseding the McKinney Act for most base closure buildings and properties.
The Act itself was the end result of recommendations made by HUD, the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, the General Services Administration, accommodated the impacted communities’ multiple interest in base reuse as well as to meet national priorities for homeless assistance. To help communities gain a greater understanding of the provisions of the Act, and to assist them in implementing the law in fair and consistent manner, HUD published the Guidebook on Military Base Reuse and Homeless Assistance.
The Guidebook includes an overview of the base redevelopment process, reviews consolidated and redevelopment plans, offers model base reuse plans, and provides guidance for communities seeking additional sources of assistance with HUD Homeless Assistance Programs. For further information, please contact Linda Charest, Coordinator of HUD’s Bas Redevelopment Team, by phone at (202) 708-1234, ext. 2595 or by e-mail.
The Guidebook is also available on HUD’s Web site in two electronic versions. One is an interactive version that can be read online. The other is an Adobe .PDF document and can be downloaded directly to the computer. Please note that in order to view the .PDF version a downloadable viewer must be installed on the computer.
2. Self Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP)
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/affordablehousing/programs/shop/index.cfm
SHOP provides funds for eligible non-profit organizations to purchase home sites and develop or improve the infrastructure needed to set the stage for sweat equity and volunteer-based homeownership programs for low-income persons and families. SHOP is authorized by the Housing Opportunity Program Extension Act of 1996, Section 11, and is subject to other Federal crosscutting requirements. Further information about SHOP can be accessed at the above Web site.
3. Native American Assistance
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
http://www.hud.gov/groups/nativeamericans.cfm
HUD offers a range of programs, assistance, and loan programs specifically for Native American tribes, organizations, and sometimes individuals. See Web site for details.
4. Relocating
U.S. Department of Labor
www.careerOne-Stop.org/relocation/RelocationCenterHome.asp
The CareerOne-Stop Web portal has a Relocation Center with links to resources that may assist individuals with relocation decisions and planning. On this page customers will find a link to cost of living resources, a salary calculator, financial and moving resources, and resources related to the community to which they are relocating. The Relocation Center can be accessed at the above Web site.
5. Home Owner Assistance Program
U.S. Department of Defense/Army
www.sas.usace.army.mil/hapinv/hapinfo.htm
The Department of Defense Homeowner’s Assistance Program (HAP) provides assistance to eligible federal personnel (military and civilian), who are stationed at or near an installation scheduled for closure or realignment and who, through no fault of their own, are unable to sell their homes under reasonable terms and conditions. Information concerning HAP is available at the above Web site.
6. Rental Assistance
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofa/welfare/stlinks.htm
Rental assistance may be available through local welfare agencies. They can be located through each states department of social services via the above Web site.
7. Low Income Home Ener54gy Assistance Program
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/liheap/grantees/index.html#states
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help pay heating, gas, and electricity bills for low income households. More information about LIHEAP assistance can be obtained from LIHEAP grantees (states, tribal organizations and U.S. insular areas). Grantee Web sites and other contact information can be found at the above Web site.
8. Rural Rental Assistance
U.S. Department of Agriculture
http://offices.usda.gov/scripts/ndcgi.exe/oip_public/usa_map.
Rural Rental Assistance payments are available to persons with low incomes, the elderly, and persons with disabilities who are unable to pay their rent. The owner of the rental property will be paid the difference between the amount of the individual’s rent and the amount that the individual can contribute. More information is available at the above Web site.
1. Unemployment Insurance Locator
U.S. Department of Labor
http://workforcesecurity.doleta.gov/map.asp
Most individuals who have become unemployed due to BRAC will have the protection of unemployment compensation. Eligibility and application information are available from each state’s workforce agency via the Web site listed above.
2. Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE) program
U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. Department of Labor
www.cpms.osd.mil/icuc/icuc.htm
Federal civilian employees may qualify for the Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE) program. UCFE has the same terms and conditions as regular state unemployment insurance programs. State unemployment insurance agencies will be able to answer questions about eligibility duration and amount of benefits, as well as procedures for filing a UCFE claim (see also the Unemployment Insurance Locator described above).
1. Social Security Administration
Social Security Administration
www.socialsecurity.gov
1-800-772-1213
The Social Security Administration (SSA) Web site provides a wealth of information about Social Security benefits, a monthly income support that may be available upon retirement. Information on eligibility, amount of benefits, how to apply, and contact information for local SSA offices can be found at the above Web site or by calling the toll-free number.
1. The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation
Federal Corporation
www.pbgc.gov
1-800-400-7242 or 1-800-877-8339 (TTY)
The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) pays pension benefits when an eligible pension plan ends without sufficient money to meet its financial obligations. This site explains PBGC eligibility and how to access benefits.
2. Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and Federal Employee’s Retirement System (FERS)
U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM)
www.opm.gov/retire/html/library
Federal employees may be eligible for retirement benefits under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or the Federal Employees’ Retirement System (FERS). Information about eligibility, benefits and applying for retirement under these systems is available at the Web site listed above.
