The County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) assists veterans, dependents, and survivors by providing information, assistance, counseling, and referrals on a wide range of subjects, benefits, and veteran programs. CVSO's are trained to provide information on the following topics: - Transportation assistance to VA Appointments - Offers complete claims service and explanation of VA procedures - Provides follow-up service once a decision has been made - GI loans - Compensation and pension - Survivors benefits - Education benefits - On-the-job and apprenticeship training - State benefits - Social Security benefits - Employment and unemployment - Small business development information - Corrections of military records - Review of discharges - Medical and dental treatment - Hospitalization or outpatient treatment - Nursing home care - Residency at the State Veterans' Home - Rehabilitation - Information and payment assistance for alcoholism and drug dependency treatment - Burial benefits - Obtaining flags - Information on community programs Veterans are encouraged to register their discharge information (DD Form 214, Report of Separation) with the County Registrar of Deeds Office.

Considers requests for medical and funeral assistance. Other requests for financial assistance are considered on a case by case basis.

Provides limited emergency financial assistance as a last resort for those considered indigent and are residents of Brookings County. The office may help with rent, utilities, prescriptions, emergency medical expenses, county burials and funerals, eye care referrals, and admittance fees for voluntary mental, alcohol, or drug treatment to the Human Services Center in Yankton, SD.