Veterans Benefits Banking Program

Organizational Resources

The Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP) Resources Page is the central hub for comprehensive information and support, encompassing details about the overall program and VetCents.

Neither VA nor AMBA endorses any particular banks, credit unions, products or services, or requires Veterans or other beneficiaries to use them.

Tailored for Financial and Credit Counselors, Participating Banks and Credit Unions, as well as our supporting Partner Organizations, this page provides access to materials to fortify your commitment to offering accessible banking solutions for Veterans. Additionally, you’ll find resources to aid in promoting and educating about the VBBP and VetCents. Together, we are fostering financial empowerment and support for our Veterans, their families and caregivers. We invite you to explore these resources and continue contributing to the success of the VBBP mission.

Program Overview and Participation

Overview of the VBBP

A concise summary of the program’s three pillars, suitable for print or web use.

Prospective Financial Institution Flyer

Information for banks and credit unions on connecting with VA benefit recipients, emphasizing the benefits of participation.

Participating Bank and Credit Union Flyers

Details outlining the commitments and benefits for banks and credit unions supporting Veterans in their communities. Financial institutions can share this flyer internally with team members for training purposes.

Earn CRA Credit by Participating in VBBP

Guidance on how participation can help banks earn credit under the Community Reinvestment Act by providing services to low- and moderate-income Veterans, survivors, and caregivers.

Account Access and Management

Banking Homeless Veterans

Resources and guidance for opening accounts for Veterans without permanent housing, ensuring they have access to financial services.

Verification Process for Veterans, Beneficiaries, and Caregivers

Guidelines to assist financial institutions in accurately verifying the status of potential customers within the Veteran community.

International Banking

Information on enrolling in international direct deposit (IDD), offering faster, safer, and more reliable payment options than paper checks.

Financial Education and Wellness

VetCents

An award-winning personal financial wellness program designed to empower Veterans with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to manage their finances effectively.

VBBP Counseling Data (August 2022 – December 2023)

This document gives an overview from the data collected from the counseling sessions given by The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) and the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education® (AFCPE®)

Client Support and Counseling

Counseling Session Overview

A one-pager on how the counselors can help Veterans during counseling sessions, for print or web use.

Marketing and Outreach Materials

VBBP Pillar Postcards

A set of postcard-sized flyers to help institutions communicate key components of the VBBP to Veterans, beneficiaries, and caregivers.

Let’s Get Banked
A flyer explaining how Veterans, beneficiaries, survivors, and caregivers can open low-to-no-cost checking accounts with participating banks or credit unions through direct deposit.

Improve Your Financial Health
A flyer highlighting personalized financial health assessments available to VBBP participants, aiding in financial well-being improvement.

Free Financial Counseling
Details on complimentary financial counseling services, including up to three consultations with certified financial counselors to support Veterans with budgeting, debt management, and more.

Social Media Kits

Engaging graphics and ready-to-use post content tailored for participating banks and credit unions, covering general VBBP content and specific topics aligned with the VBBP calendar. Download and share VBBP with your community!

Financial Education and Literacy

  • VetCents Platform: Comprehensive financial education platform for improving financial literacy.
  • Tax Preparation: Insights and tips to navigate tax challenges effectively.
  • Building & Repairing Credit: Resources to help Veterans improve their credit health.

Savings and Budgeting

  • Kickstart Your Savings Journey: Encouraging participants to start saving and discover found money.
  • Savings Strategies: Building emergency funds, saving for short-term goals, and long-term financial security.
  • Veteran Saves: Emphasizing the importance of saving and informed financial decisions.
  • Effective Budgeting Techniques: Practical tips for creating and sticking to a budget to manage expenses effectively.

Debt and Fraud Management

  • Managing Debt: Tools and insights to reduce and manage debt effectively.
  • Fraud Prevention and Scam Awareness: Information to protect financial information and avoid scams during the holidays.

Mental and Financial Wellness

  • Mental and Financial Health: Resources for managing mental and financial wellness together.
  • Awareness Campaigns: Promoting the connection between mental health and financial stability.

Financial Planning and Retirement Security

  • Financial Planning: Tools and tips for long-term financial security.
  • Retirement Security: Emphasis on planning for a secure retirement.

Special Focus Topics

  • Women in the Military Community: Addressing unique financial challenges faced by women in the military.
  • Military Appreciation Month: Honoring military personnel and families with tailored resources.
  • Holiday Spending Management: Strategies to avoid debt and maintain financial health during the holidays.