Somerville, NJ — Somerset County’s Veterans Services office helped veterans recover $6.6 million in benefits last year while hosting its first statewide training summit since the pandemic to address new federal policy changes.
The April 17 event brought together County Veteran Service Officers from across New Jersey to discuss updates within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and improve how local offices guide veterans through evolving benefits systems, according to Somerset County officials.
First statewide collaboration in years
The summit marked the first in-person gathering of its kind since before COVID-19, reflecting renewed coordination among county-level veterans service offices.
Participants focused on recent legislative and policy changes affecting veterans, as well as strategies to better assist clients navigating the VA’s processes.
“The engagement and discussion was robust and we look forward to meeting again later this year,” said Jean O’Brien, director of Somerset County Veterans Services.
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Key Points
• Somerset County veterans office recovered $6.6M in benefits for residents in 2025
• First statewide training summit since COVID held April 17 in Somerville
• Officials focused on new VA policies and improving support for veterans
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Millions returned to veterans
The county’s Veterans Services department has steadily increased the amount of benefits secured for local veterans.
Officials reported that the office helped reclaim $5.8 million in 2024, followed by a jump to $6.6 million in 2025 — a nearly $800,000 increase year over year.
Those funds include federal benefits that veterans may be entitled to but often need assistance accessing, such as disability compensation, pensions, and other VA programs.
Why the changes matter
Updates at the federal level can significantly affect eligibility, application processes, and timelines for benefits, making local guidance critical.
County Veteran Service Officers act as a key bridge between veterans and the VA, helping ensure applications are completed correctly and that individuals receive the support they’ve earned through military service.
The summit emphasized adapting to those changes quickly and consistently across counties to avoid delays or missed benefits.
Continued outreach and support
Somerset County officials encouraged veterans to seek assistance if they have not yet accessed available benefits or need help navigating the system.
The department provides direct support through its office and online resources, offering guidance on claims, appeals, and eligibility questions.
As policy changes continue at the federal level, county officials say they plan to hold additional collaborative sessions later this year to maintain alignment and improve service delivery.
Somerset County’s Veterans Services office remains active and available to assist residents, with ongoing efforts focused on increasing benefit access and awareness.