About this service
The Marin County Veterans Service Office (VSO) helps veterans, dependents, and survivors connect to local, state, and federal benefits and resources.
This includes general guidance, referrals, and help understanding benefit programs.
The VSO does not determine eligibility. Eligibility, approvals, and services are managed by the appropriate agency, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet), Department of Defense (DoD), and local agencies.
Who this service is for
This service is for veterans, dependents, and survivors who need help understanding or navigating available benefits and resources.
The VSO can help explain programs and required documentation but does not make eligibility decisions.
Details
Key agencies and contacts
Marin County Veterans Service Office (VSO)
Provides assistance with understanding and applying for local, state, and federal benefits and resources
- Email: uufirgfreivprf@znevapbhagl.tbi
- Website: Veterans Services
- Phone: 415-473-6193
California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet)
Provides state benefits including housing, education, employment programs, and veteran services
- Website: https://www.calvet.ca.gov
- Phone: 800-952-5626
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Provides federal benefits and services through:
- Veterans Health Administration (VHA) – health care
- Nearest VA facilities
- Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) – compensation, pension, and education benefits
- Nearest VA facility:
- National Cemetery Administration (NCA) – burial and memorial benefits
- Nearest VA Cemetery:
Federal Benefits Guide (PDF):
2025 Federal Benefits for Veterans PDF
Phone: 800-827-1000
Department of Defense (DoD)
Provides:
- Military identification (ID) cards for base access, commissary, and exchange privileges
- Military funeral honors for eligible veterans
These services are not handled by the VSO.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How do I get a benefits summary letter or commissary letter?
These letters are generated through the VA—not the VSO.
Download them online:
Download VA letters
Or call: 800-827-1000
These letters are often required for:
- Property tax exemption
- Commissary access verification
- Other benefit programs
How do I apply for the Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption?
File through the Marin County Assessor (not the VSO):
- Veterans' and Disabled Veterans' Exemptions
- Phone: 415-473-7215
Typical requirements:
- DD-214
- VA Benefits Summary Letter showing a 100% disability rating
- BOE-261-G form
Can the VSO get me commissary, exchange, or base access?
No. These are Department of Defense (DoD) benefits and are not handled by the VSO.
You must obtain a DoD ID card through a RAPIDS (Real-Time Automated Personnel Identification System) office: ID Card Office Locator
DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System) Support Office (California):
800-334-4162
(Call ahead—many locations require appointments.)
Nearest RAPIDS ID Card Offices
- U.S. Coast Guard Base Alameda — 510-437-5648
- U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Petaluma — 707-765-7354
- Travis Air Force Base — 707-424-2345 / 707-424-8480 / 707-424-8483
How do I update my VA direct deposit information?
Update directly with the VA:
- Online: Change VA Direct Deposit Information
- Phone: 800-827-1000
Can the VSO help with housing or homelessness?
Yes. The VSO can provide referrals and guidance.
Programs may include:
- VA Homeless Programs, including HUD-VASH (Housing and Urban Development–VA Supportive Housing)
- Community housing providers
- CalVet Homes (California Veterans Homes)
What veteran ID options are available?
- DoD ID Card — Issued at RAPIDS (retirees, 100% P&T, etc.)
- VHIC — Issued after VA health care enrollment
- VIC (Veteran ID Card) — Digital ID
- CA DMV Veteran Designation — See DMV action page
How do I get National or State Park passes?
National Parks (Free Lifetime Pass):
Available in person at locations like Muir Woods or Sausalito Bay Model
Veterans and Gold Star Families Free Access
California State Parks (Distinguished Veteran Pass):
California State Parks
How do I apply for VA Life Insurance (VALife)?
Applications must be completed online:
Learn more about VA life insurance options and eligibility:
Life Insurance Options & Eligibility
Phone: 800-669-8477
Does the VSO help incarcerated veterans?
Yes. Assistance is available through CalVet’s Incarcerated Veterans Program:
Erc4vapneprengrqirgf@pnyirg.pn.tbi