Word list

For most terms on VA.gov, we use the standard American English spelling in Merriam-Webster Dictionary. The words on this list are exceptions or need clarification.

• We might use different capitalization or hyphenation.
• We may call for using a more plain language version of a word or to define it in body copy.
• We may call for using a preferred version on VA.gov when different VA agencies use variations for the same word.

For terms that are not on this list, refer to Merriam-Webster.

Jump to: A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

A

accredited representative

Lowercase, and define on first appropriate instance as “a trained professional trusted to help with VA-related claims.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

• Like this: Get help from an accredited representative, a trained professional trusted to help with VA-related claims.

active duty

Lowercase, and hyphenate when it modifies a noun.

• Like this: active-duty service member

advanced

Capitalize only when used as part of the branded term “My HealtheVet Advanced.” Otherwise lowercase.

Agent Orange

Define term on first mention in body copy as “a toxic chemical used to clear trees and plants during the war.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Agent Orange Registry health exam

Lowercase “health exam.”

annual

Unless part of a benefit or program name, avoid the use of terms like “annual,” “biannual,” and “biennial.” Opt for plain language alternatives instead.

• Instead of annual: “each year” or “once each year”

• Instead of bi-annual: “2 times each year” or “twice each year”

• Instead of biennial: “every other year”

appeal option

On the Board Appeal form, a Veteran selects a Direct Review, Evidence Submission, or Hearing “appeal option” from the list of Board Appeal options. Avoid use of the word “lane.”

apply

Use “file a claim for disability compensation” instead of “apply for benefits.” “Apply” is OK for other benefits, such as “Apply for VA health care.”

Armed Forces

Capitalize. The Armed Forces consist of 6 service branches: the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force. Also refer to the “uniformed services” entry.

asbestos

Define on first mention in body copy as “toxic fibers, once used in many buildings and products.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

attending physician

In the context of life insurance, define on first mention in body copy as “the doctor in charge of your care” (when talking to Veterans) or “the doctor in charge of a Veteran’s care” (when talking to a family caregiver). Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

B

basic

Capitalize only when used as part of the branded term “DS Logon Basic.” Otherwise lowercase.

became ill

Use “got sick” instead.

became worse

Use “got worse” instead.

beneficiary

In the context of life insurance, define on first mention in body copy as “the person you choose to receive your insurance proceeds.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

benefit office

Don’t use “benefit office” or “regional benefit office.” Use “regional office” instead. Go to entry for “VA regional office” for details.

Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program

Note that “Benefits” is plural. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

blind or low-vision

Don’t use “blind or sight-impaired.”

Blue Water

Capitalize.

Board decision

A Veteran receives a “Board decision,” not a “Board Appeal decision.”

Board of Veterans’ Appeals

Capitalize. Can use “Board” on subsequent mentions in body copy. Note that “Veterans” is plural with a plural possessive: Veterans’.

Brown Water

Capitalize.

C

C&P exam

Go to entry for “claim exam.”

can vs. may

Use “can” when meaning the ability or power to do something; use “may” when meaning the permission to do it.

caregiver

Use “caregiver,” not “caretaker.” Also note that family members don’t necessarily see themselves as “caregivers.” While “family caregiver” may be used as a shorthand term, wherever possible use a more descriptive phrase such as “a family member caring for a Veteran with disabilities.”

Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Capitalize. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

certifying official

Use this term to refer to the person at one’s school who needs to approve or submit enrollment information for VA education benefits.

• Like this: Your school’s certifying official will submit your enrollment information with a VA Enrollment Certification (VA Form 22-1999).

Character of Discharge review process:

Lowercase “review process.”

character of service (more casually referred to as “type of service”)

This is a “block” or box on the VA Form DD214 that states these statuses: honorable, general/under honorable conditions, under other than honorable conditions, uncharacterized, or bad conduct.

chronic

Define on first mention in body copy as “long-lasting” or when needed, “illness that lasts for a long time.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

claimant

Define the term on the first instance as “person with the claim” or “person applying for this benefit.” When possible, use specific plain language instead, like “Veteran’s spouse” or “Veteran’s child.” Go to Claims and applications for more guidance related to this word.

claim exam

This is a term VA is working to rebrand. For now, on first mention on a page, use “VA claim exam (also known as a compensation and pension, or C&P, exam).” After first mention, use “VA claim exam” or “claim exam.”

click

Avoid using, especially “click here.” Link the relevant words instead. Exception: In UI (user interface) copy, it’s OK to use “click [Button/Interface Name].” Go to Links

• Like this: Find an accredited representative to help you.

• Like this in UI copy: In your account dashboard, click Profile.

compensation

“Disability compensation” is the preferred term, but “VA disability pay” has greater SEO value and is more plain language. Use “VA disability compensation (pay)” on first mention, and try to work in both terms. Also include explanation of “monthly payments.”

competent

Define on first mention in body copy as “of legal age and sound mind.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers

The proper program name is Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. Don’t make the name into an acronym.

condition vs. disability

In the context of service connection, we use “condition” to describe an illness or injury that affects your mind or body. We call a condition a “disability” after a Veteran has received a disability rating.

• Like this: If you have a condition connected to your service, you may be eligible for compensation. 

• Like this: If your service-connected disability has gotten worse, find out how to file a claim to increase your disability rating.

conditions

Define on first mention as “illnesses or injuries (also known as conditions).” For all other mentions, “condition” or “conditions” is OK.

contamination

Define on first mention in body copy as “water that was found to have toxic chemicals in it.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

• Exception: On the Camp Lejeune page, don’t define this term.

contention

Use “condition” or an alternate word or phrase instead, depending on context. Internally, “contention” refers to an issue connected with a claim. Typically this is a medical condition, but in some cases it could be for other things like claiming a dependent.

continuous

When used in the context of eligibility, define this term as “all at once, without a break in service.”

• Like this: Served for at least 30 continuous days (all at once, without a break in service).”

convalescence

Use “rehab care” instead. If used in the context of a specific benefit, can include as a parenthetical: “(also known as convalescence).”

court-appointed guardian

Define on first mention in body content as “a person the court decides is in charge of caring for another person who can’t take care of him or herself.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

court-martial

Lowercase, as in “general court-martial,” “special court-martial,” and “summary court-martial.”

D

death benefits

Define on first mention in body copy as “money from a Veteran’s life insurance policy when that Veteran dies.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

deceased

This is the preferred term on VA.gov over “decedent,” which is chiefly a legal term.

decision notice

A “decision notice” is the same as a “decision letter.” The usage, or preferred term, varies across business lines. We send this notice to Veterans after we make a decision on their claim.

decision review form

A Veteran fills out a decision review “form,” not an “application.”

Defense Department (DOD)

For most cases, use Defense Department on the first instance. After the first instance, use DOD. Capitalize the O. Go to the DOD brand guide for more information. And go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

demolish

Use “knock down” or, when used as a noun in the context of a job of building demolition, “demolition (knocking down old buildings).”

dentistry

Use “dental care” instead.

Department of Defense

Go to entry for Defense Department.

Department of Veterans Affairs

“Veterans” doesn’t take an apostrophe. On VA.gov, because we show the complete U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) logo in the global header, we use VA or use the first-person “we.” Go to We, us, you for examples.

• Don’t use “DVA,” “Dept of VA,” or other non-standard shortened versions. For more, go to the entries “VA” and “VA.gov.”

• Exception: When using the full, official federal agency name, spell out in its entirety on the first instance. After the first instance, shorten to Veterans Affairs or VA.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

Capitalize. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program

Refer to this as “Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program.” Include “also called Chapter 35” on first mention. Can be shortened to “DEA program” after first mention.

deprivation

Define on first mention in body copy as “a lack of things such as sleep that people need for their physical and mental well-being.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

disability rating

Define as “a rating that measures how severe a disability is” or similar language.

• Like this: We may use a rating that measures how bad your disability is. This rating helps us decide your level of benefits.

• Like this: We assign you a disability rating based on the severity of your disability.

disease

Use “illness” unless it’s part of a proper name of a specific disease.

District of Columbia

Refer to entry for “Washington, DC.”

dividend

Define on first mention in body copy as “cash payments made to policyholders when the company makes a profit” OR as “when life insurance companies make money, they sometimes make cash payments (called dividends) to people who have policies with them.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy

Capitalize with no quotation marks. Lowercase “policy.”

E

Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship

Spell out the full title on first mention: The Edith Nourse Rogers Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) Scholarship. After the first mention, use Rogers STEM Scholarship. Don’t use the phrase “extends Post-9/11 GI Bill or Fry Scholarship benefits” to describe the program. Use language like this instead: “The Rogers STEM Scholarship allows eligible Veterans using the Post-9/11 GI Bill or dependents using the Fry Scholarship to get added benefits.”

education

In general, on VA.gov we use “education” as a noun, and sometimes as part of a compound noun or attributive noun to modify another noun.

• Like this: education benefits OR education and training opportunities

• Not this: educational benefits OR educational and training opportunities

educational

Because businesses within VA apply different usage styles for “education” and “educational,” we’ve listed instances here, where we use “educational” in specific phrases rather than “education.” (Go to entry for “education.”)

• Like this: educational assistance, educational institution, educational plan, educational program

educational and career counseling

We use this style of phrasing to be consistent with VR&E Chapter 36: Educational and Career Counseling. Note: This style differs from the style within eBenefits VR&E > Education and Career Counseling pages.

educational assistance

We use this style of phrasing to be consistent with Chapter 35, DEA, REAP, and VEAP.

educational counseling

We use this style of phrasing to be consistent with VR&E Chapter 36: Educational and Vocational Counseling. Note: This usage differs from the style within eBenefits VR&E > Education and Career Counseling pages.

email

No hyphen (not “e-mail”).

employment handicap

Add a definition or note to help explain this term.

• Like this: Having an employment handicap means your service-connected disability limits your ability to prepare for, obtain, and maintain suitable employment (a job that doesn’t make your disability worse, is stable, and matches your abilities, aptitudes, and interests).

environmental hazards

Define on first mention in body copy as “harmful toxins in the air, water, or land such as those that get released from burn pits.” Include definition as another sentence, a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

equivalent

Use an alternative word or phrase—such as “equal to,” “same as,” “as in,” etc.—depending on context.

• Like this: Apply for VA health care online (equal to VA Form 10-10EZ).

• Not this: Apply for VA health care online (equivalent to VA Form 10-10EZ).

• Like this: We’ll review your discharge papers (DD214 or other separation documents).

• Not this: We’ll review your discharge papers (DD214 or equivalent).

era

Capitalize in Vietnam Era (this is a VA term). If you need to talk about the Vietnam War, which has different dates associated with it than Vietnam Era, style it with “era,” lowercase: Vietnam War era.

evidence

Define as “supporting documents” and add, “like a doctor’s report or medical test results,” as needed.

Exception

Used to call special attention to something. It should be bolded and never in all caps. Use a colon following “Exception.”

excluding

Use “not counting” or “not including” instead.

expedite/expedited

Use plain language words like “faster,” “quicker,” or “speed up,” depending on context.

• Like this: Use the Fully Developed Claims program to get a faster decision on your disability benefits claim. This may help speed up the claim decision process, so you can get your benefits sooner.

• Not this: Use the Fully Developed Claims program to get an expedited decision on your disability benefits claim. This may help expedite the claim decision process.

explosive ordinance

Define on first mention in body copy as “high-explosive devices, and chemical and nuclear weapons.” Include definition as another sentence, a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

exposure

Define in the context of body copy as “had contact with” or “come into contact with.”

F

family member

Use this term instead of “beneficiary” whenever possible.

Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)

This is the program name. Note that the word Servicemembers’ is plural with a plural possessive apostrophe. Because this is a proper noun, we follow the “Servicemember” spelling here, instead of our house style, “service member.” Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

FAQs

Use in all instances for “frequently asked questions.”

federal

Lowercase “federal” for generic usage such as “federal agency.”

fibromyalgia

Define on first mention in body copy as “a sickness that causes tiredness, pain in different areas of your body, and sleep, memory, and mood problems.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

file a claim for disability compensation

Use “file a claim” instead of “apply for benefits” when referring to disability.

final status

Use “in final status” instead of “in a final status.”

financial hardship

Define on first mention in body copy as “having trouble paying for basic needs, like food and housing.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Fourth Mission

Capitalize.

G

gender diverse

No hyphen.

GI

No periods (not G.I.).

GI Bill®

Include the trademark symbol in the first prominent mention on the website (currently on Education and Training hub page).

GI Bill Comparison Tool

Capitalize “Comparison Tool.” Treat as a proper noun when mentioning it by the complete name. Lowercase “tool” when simply referencing it, not by name.

• Like this: The GI Bill Comparison Tool can help you compare benefits by school. Fill out the tool to get started.

gravesite

Style this as 1 word. (Merriam-Webster doesn’t address whether this should be 1 or 2 words, but the Gravesite Locator and Arlington National Cemetery both style it as 1 word. In addition, the following related words do appear in Merriam-Webster as 1 word: graveside and gravestone.)

guarantee

Use as either a noun or a verb. For our purposes, especially within the Home Loans section, when used in a legal context, we use “guarantee” as a verb and “guaranty” as a noun. Example: We guarantee a portion of the loan.

guaranty

Use only as a noun. Example: Because of our partial guaranty, lenders may offer better loan terms for Veterans.

Guard member

Use the gender-neutral term, “Guard member,” instead of Guardsman/Guardsmen on VA.gov. Capitalize “Guard.”

Gulf War Illness

Capitalize “Illness.” Per NIH, this is also sometimes called “chronic multisymptom illness.” Note: “Gulf War Syndrome” is the former name, and is no longer used. When needed for clarity or SEO, include the former term on first mention.

• Like this: Gulf War Illness (known in the past as Gulf War Syndrome)

H

hazardous

Define in the context of body copy as “harmful” or “toxic.”

hazardous exposure

Define in the context of body copy as “contact with harmful chemicals or other hazardous materials.”

health care

Two words, never hyphenated as a compound adjective (for example, “health care system”). Lowercase unless it’s part of the official name of a VA medical center.

• Exception: Defer to the VA medical center’s official name, which may have health care as 1 word versus 2 words.

Higher-Level Review decision

Lowercase “decision.” Note: A Veteran “requests” a Higher-Level Review, a Board Appeal, or a decision review. We don’t say “apply” or “file” for a Higher-Level Review, a Board Appeal or a decision review.

home loan

Don’t use a hyphen even when used as an adjective.

• Like this: home loan benefits

• Not this: home-loan benefits

homeless

Homeless is OK as an adjective to describe people without fixed housing. Or use “at risk of becoming homeless.”

hospitalization

Use “hospital care” instead.

House confinement

Phrase as “being unable to leave your house (known as house confinement).”

Housebound allowance

Lowercase “allowance.”

I

illness

Use “illness” to refer to diseases.

increased claim

Define on first mention in body copy as “a claim for more compensation for a disability that we’ve already determined to be service connected and that has gotten worse.”

independent living services

Don’t use hyphen for the compound adjective.

Individual Unemployability

Include a description that makes clear that this benefit is for Veterans who can’t work due to a service-connected disability. This is a VA term and should be capitalized.

individually unemployable

Lowercase. Define as “unable to work due to a service-connected disability.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

input

Use “record” instead.

intent to file

Lowercase in almost all cases unless referencing the full form name. Don’t use “ITF” or the phrase “file your intent to file.”

• Like this: Fill out your intent to file form.

• Like this: Submit your intent to file.

internet

Lowercase, per AP Style.

J

Job Bank

Neither word is plural. Go to entry for “Veterans Job Bank.”

K

Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

L

lewisite

Define on first mention in body copy as “a natural compound that contains the poison arsenic.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

LGBTQ+

Use in all instances. “LGBTQ+” refers to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer identities. The “+” sign captures identities beyond LGBTQ, including but not limited to questioning, pansexual, asexual, agender, gender diverse, nonbinary, and gender-neutral identities.

life insurance

Don’t hyphenate in the form of a compound adjective: “life insurance coverage.”

loan guaranty agent

Lowercase. Capitalize only when used as someone’s title. The preferred style is to recast the sentence so that it adheres to AP Style on professional titles.

• Like this: Charles Lee, our loan guaranty agent, may ask you to provide more financial information.

• Not this: Loan Guaranty Agent Charles Lee may ask you to provide more financial information.

loan technician

Lowercase. Capitalize only when used as someone’s title. The preferred style is to recast the sentence so that it adheres to AP Style on professional titles.

• Like this: Your loan technician, Jane Smith, may ask you to provide more information.

• Not this: Loan Technician Jane Smith may ask you to provide more information.

log in/log out (verb), login ID (noun or adj.)

Use sign in/sign out or username and password, as needed.

• Like this: Sign in with your username and password.

• Not this: Enter your login ID.

Loss of range of motion

Use “problems moving your body” instead.

M

manufacturing

Use “making” instead.

may

Go to entry for “can.”

Military Occupation Code (MOC)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

Million Veteran Program (MVP)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

MISSION Act

Use the official short title, VA MISSION Act, instead of the abbreviated or full name. (The full name of the bill is the “John S. McCain III, Daniel K. Akaka, and Samuel R. Johnson VA Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks Act of 2018.”)

mobile phone

Use mobile phone when referencing a device for talking and texting, with or without internet connectivity. Don’t use cell phone or cellular phone. You can also use “mobile device” to reference tablets or mobile phones more generally. For related information, go to the entry for “smartphone.”

Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

multifactor authentication

Use this term instead of “2-factor authentication.” Multifactor is 1 word. No hyphen.

My HealtheVet

Don’t italicize the “e” between “Health” and “Vet” in body copy, headlines, and user interface elements such as links, buttons, and navigation. The “e” is italicized only in the logo.

N

National Cemetery Administration (NCA)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

National Guard

Can also use “Guard.”

Native American direct loan (NADL)

Lowercase “direct loan.” Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

new claim

Define on first mention in body copy as “a claim for added benefits or other benefit requests related to an existing service-connected disability.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

non-traditional

Hyphenate when preceding and modifying a noun.

nonpay

No hyphen.

Note

Used to call special attention to something. It should be bolded and never in all caps. Use a colon following “Note.”

Notice of Disagreement (NOD)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

number

Spell out this word. Don’t abbreviate to “No.” or “#.”

O

original claim

Define on first mention in body copy as “your first claim for disability compensation.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

P

PACT Act

PACT Act alone is OK for all instances. The full title of the law is The Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act.

patient

Use “person living with,” as in “person living with diabetes,” instead of “diabetes patient.”

pension management center

Capitalize only if part of the formal name of a center. Example: Get more information about the Philadelphia VA Pension Management Center. Find the VA pension management center that serves the state you live in.

percent

Use the symbol % rather than spelling it out, for scannability.

period of honorable service

Not honorable period of service.

permanent disability, permanent and total disability

Define a “permanent disability” as “a disability that’s not expected to improve” and define “permanent and total disability” as “a disability that we’ve rated as 100% disabling and that’s not expected to improve.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Persian Gulf War era

Lowercase “era.”

Philippines

Use “Philippines” (without “the”) in a list. Use “the Philippines” in the context of a paragraph (like “If you served in the Philippines”).

PO Box

Don’t use periods.

post-9/11

Hyphenate. We use the slash rather than the hyphen for 9/11 (not 9-11). Example: Post-9/11 GI Bill. In cases when “post-9/11” stands alone rather than as part of a program name, it should be lowercase.

postservice

No hyphen.

posttraumatic stress disorder

No hyphen, per the National Center for PTSD. Go to entry for “PTSD.”

Premium

Capitalize when used in the context of account level (for example: DS Logon Premium account)

pre-discharge

Use a hyphen.

preseparation

No hyphen.

preservice

No hyphen.

prestabilization

No hyphen.

presume

Use “conclude,” as in “we will conclude your condition is linked to service.”

presumptive disability

Use “health problem” and reference when needed for clarity.

• Like this: A health problem (called presumptive disability) that we’ve concluded is likely caused by….

prisoner of war (POW)

Lowercase per the Department of Defense military dictionary.

• Like this: You may be eligible for benefits as a former prisoner of war (POW).

process (a claim)

When using as a verb, use “review” instead.

• Like this: We’ll review your disability claim.

Project 112/SHAD

prove

Avoid the word “prove” when speaking about evidence that a Veteran needs to provide for a claim. Instead, use more empathetic language such as “show,” “provide,” or “to support your claim.”

• Like this: You’ll need to provide evidence that shows your illness was likely caused by your service.

• Not this: You’ll need to prove that your illness was likely caused by your service.

PTSD

posttraumatic stress disorder (no hyphen), per the National Center for PTSD. In body copy, we reference the full spelling with “(PTSD)” after it. On subsequent mentions in body copy, we use PTSD by itself.

• First instance in body copy: posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• After first instance in body copy: PTSD

• Exception for page titles: If the spelled-out term is too long in a page title (H1) or meta title tag, it’s OK to use PTSD by itself, and then use the full spelling with the acronym in the first instance of body copy.

Q

R

regional office

Use instead of “regional benefit office.” Go to entry for “VA regional office” for details.

Reserve

Capitalize when used to refer to members of the military.

Reservist

Capitalize.

respiratory disease

Use “breathing problems” or “lung disease.”

resume

Don’t use accent marks when referring to the noun, as in a job resume.

retroactive

Provide contextual information to help define, as relevant in the specific situation. Example: Can I get retroactive TSGLI for a past injury? You may be able to get retroactive TSGLI that takes effect starting from the date of your injury.

review option

A Veteran selects from one of the available review options when they request a decision review. The 3 review options are Supplemental Claim, Board Appeal, and Higher-Level Review.

reviewer

Lowercase. Person who reviews Supplemental Claims. (As opposed to a senior reviewer, who reviews Higher-Level Reviews.)

S

secondary service-connected claim

Define on first mention in body copy as “a claim for a new disability that’s linked to a service-connected disability you already have.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Selected Reserve

Generally used in the context of the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve.

senior reviewer

Lowercase. Person who reviews Higher-Level Reviews. (As opposed to a reviewer, who reviews Supplemental Claims.)

service connected

Use a hyphen when modifying a noun. Otherwise, no hyphen.

• Like this (modifying a noun): A Veteran with a service-connected disability may be eligible for additional health care benefits.

• Like this (not modifying a noun): The disability is considered service connected.

service-connected condition

Define in body copy as an “illness or injury caused—or made worse by—active-duty service.” Can define in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas. For example: “A service-connected condition is an illness or injury caused—or made worse by—your active-duty service.”

service-connected disability

In most cases, add the definition separately as another sentence or a note below a bulleted list. For example: “Having a service-connected disability means we’ve concluded that you’re disabled because of an illness or injury caused—or made worse—by your active-duty service.”

service-connected disability rating

In most cases, use “disability rating” instead for simplicity. Although using the full phrase is not wrong.

Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance (S-DVI)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

service member

Two words, lowercase. This follows the Department of Defense style guide as well as guidance from the VA Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs (OPIA).

• Exception: When it appears as part of a branded product or program name, like Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI).

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)

Note that the word Servicemembers’ is plural with a plural possessive apostrophe. Because this is a proper noun, we follow the “Servicemember” spelling here, instead of our house style, “service member.” Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Disability Extension (SGLI-DE)

Note that the word Servicemembers’ is plural with a plural possessive apostrophe. Because this is a proper noun, we follow the “Servicemember” spelling here, instead of our house style, “service member.” Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI)

Note that the word Servicemembers’ is plural with a plural possessive apostrophe. Because this is a proper noun, we follow the “Servicemember” spelling here, instead of our house style, “service member.” Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

sign in, sign out

Don’t use log in/log out, login ID, or sign on.

• Like this: Sign in to make an appointment.

• Not this: Sign on to make an appointment.

smartphone

Use smartphone when specifically referencing a mobile phone that connects to the internet. Like this: “At some VA health care facilities, you can now check in for appointments with your smartphone.” For related information, go to the entry for “mobile phone.”

Social Security number

Lowercase “number.”

special claim

Define on first mention in body copy as “a claim for special needs linked to your service-connected disability.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

sponsor

We use this word in forms and other content to refer to the Veteran who earned the benefits that a family member may be using. It’s OK to use the word sponsor but lead with the plain language definition. Example: the Veteran you’re connected to (called your “sponsor”). Go to Claims and applications for more guidance related to this word.

Statement of the Case

Capitalize.

substantially gainful employment

Provide a definition or note when using this term.

• Like this: You can’t hold down a steady job that supports you financially (known as substantially gainful employment) because of your service-connected disability. Odd jobs (marginal employment) don’t count.

suicide

When posing as a question for the Veteran, phrase as “Are you thinking of hurting yourself or others?” Don’t use “Are you having thoughts of suicide?”

Supplemental Claim

Define on first mention in body copy as “providing new evidence to support a disability claim that was denied.” Note: A Veteran “files” a Supplemental Claim, not “requests” a Supplemental Claim.

Supplemental Claim decision

Lowercase “decision.”

Supplemental Statement of the Case

Capitalize.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program

Include “also called Chapter 35” on first mention. Can be shortened to “DEA program” after first mention.

Survivors Pension

Capitalize. There’s no apostrophe in “Survivors.”

T

terminal illness

When this term is used as part of eligibility information for a benefit such as hospice care or life insurance, include a plain language definition of the term. Example: “terminal illness (a condition that can’t be treated).”

total disability, permanent and total disability

Define a “total disability” as “a disability that we’ve rated as 100% disabling,” and define “permanent and total disability” as “a disability that we’ve rated as 100% disabling and that’s not expected to improve.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

trauma

Define on first mention in body copy as “an injury or deeply disturbing experience.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

U

uniformed services

Uniformed services refers to the Armed Forces plus these 2 branches: the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Public Health Service. Also refer to the “Armed Forces” entry.

U.S.

Use periods.

V

VA

Don’t use “the” before VA when it’s used as a noun. However, when VA serves as an adjective, use the article where appropriate. Go to entry for “Department of Veterans Affairs” for full guidance.

• As a noun: VA announced today that…

• As a noun phrase (“VA facilities”): Some VA facilities in Texas are affected by Hurricane Florida.

• As an adjective (modifying “task force”): The VA task force announced today…

VA decision

This is a general, umbrella term for a claim decision made by VA.

VA.gov

Treat it as a brand name and always capitalize “VA.” Don’t use “www.va.gov” as the name.

• Like this: Preview the new VA.gov.

• Not this: Va.gov has benefits information for Veterans.

VA health care facility

No hyphen in “health care” in this phrase.

VA medical center

Don’t shorten to VA center. “Medical Center” should be capitalized only when it’s part of an official medical center name (for example, Washington VA Medical Center).

VA national cemetery

“national cemetery” is lowercase except when part of the full name of a cemetery.

VA regional office

Use “VA regional office” instead of “VA regional benefits office.” “Regional Office” should be capitalized only if a specific name is included in the title.

• Like this: The Buffalo Regional Office (RO) is 1 of 4 regional processing centers nationwide that process education claims.

vesicant agents

Use “vesicant (blistering) agents.”

Vet Center

Capitalize “Center.”

Veteran

On VA.gov, capitalize even when used as a common noun. When possible, recast sentences into a more conversational tone. Use the second person point of view to speak directly with Veterans, rather than referring to them in the third person.

• OK: Learn about services and benefits that we offer to Veterans and their families.

• Better: Learn about VA services and benefits that you and your family may be eligible for.

Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Note that “Veteran” is singular. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

Veteran ID Card (VIC)

Capitalize when referring to the ID card that allows Veterans discounts at many businesses. Note that “Veteran” is singular. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

Veteran-owned small business (VSOB)

Lowercase all words except “Veteran” when the term is spelled out. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)

Capitalize as the full name of the program. This used to be called Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, and we have places where we reference the old name and say “formerly known as.” We also reference the shortened version of the old name: “voc rehab.” Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

Veterans Affairs

“Veterans” doesn’t take an apostrophe. Go to the entries “VA” and “Department of Veterans Affairs.”

Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)

“Benefits” is plural. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

Veterans cemetery

“Veterans” doesn’t take an apostrophe, and “cemetery” is lowercase except when part of the official name of a cemetery.

• Like this: Family members may be eligible if they’re buried in a Veterans cemetery.

• Or when used in a proper noun: The Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery is located in Kaneohe, Hawaii.

Veterans Crisis Line (VCL)

“Veterans” doesn’t take an apostrophe. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)

“Veterans’” takes a plural possessive apostrophe. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

Veterans Employment Center™ (VEC)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)

“Veterans’” takes a plural possessive apostrophe. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

Veterans Health Administration (VHA)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using acronyms on VA.gov.

Veterans Job Bank

“Veterans” is plural.

Veterans Law Judge

Capitalize. Can use lowercase “judge” on subsequent mentions in body copy instead of the full formal term.

Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)

“Veterans’” takes a plural possessive apostrophe. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

Veterans Pension

“Veterans” doesn’t take an apostrophe. Lowercase “pension” when writing “VA pension.”

Veterans Service Organization (VSO)

“Veterans” is plural and doesn’t take an apostrophe. Don’t use VSO to reference a Veterans Service Officer. Instead use Veterans Service Organization representative. Or VSO representatitve. Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

Vietnam Era

Capitalize Era in Vietnam Era. But lowercase “era” when you include “War” in the term (“Vietnam War era”). Go to entry for “era” for additional explanation.

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC)

Go to Abbreviations and acronyms for guidance on using abbreviations on VA.gov.

W

Washington, DC

Default to Washington, DC when referring to the location, the VAMC, or a regional office. In some cases, especially government contexts, “District of Columbia” is also fine (“the government of the District of Columbia”).

website

One word, lowercase.

work study

Two words, not hyphenated as a noun; hyphenate when using as an adjective preceding a noun.

• Like this (modifying a noun): Find out if you can earn money while you go to school through our work-study program.

• Like this (as a noun): How much does work study pay?

X

Y

Yellow Ribbon Scholarship (Yellow Ribbon Program)

Capitalize “Program.”

Z

zip code

Lowercase, 2 words, per Merriam-Webster.