Veterans' benefits have existed since the birth of our nation. As of September 2011, over three million veterans, their dependents, and survivors of deceased veterans are receiving VA benefits and services.

The last dependent of a Revolutionary War veteran died in 1911; the War of 1812's last dependent died in 1946; and the last dependent of the Mexican War died in 1962. Some 63 children and 50 widows of Spanish-American War veterans are receiving benefits today. There are in fact 2 children of Civil War veterans who still draw VA benefits.