New York State Department of Veterans’ Services – Albany, NY

NYS Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS)

Advocacy and Benefits for New York Veterans

The New York State Department of Veterans’ Services (formerly the Division of Veterans’ Affairs) acts as the state’s primary advocate for former military personnel and their families. Headquartered at 2 Empire State Plaza, the department is dedicated to ensuring that New York’s veterans receive the federal and state benefits they have earned. The agency’s accredited Veterans Benefits Advisors provide free, professional assistance in preparing and presenting claims to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

• Claims Assistance: Expert advisors help veterans navigate the complex VA claims process for disability compensation, pension, and education benefits. They assist with gathering medical evidence and filing appeals if necessary.
• State Benefits: The department administers specific New York programs, including the Blind Annuity Program, the Gold Star Parent Annuity, and the Restoration of Honor act for those with less-than-honorable discharges due to PTSD, TBI, or MST.
• Employment and Education: DVS works closely with other state agencies to promote the hiring of veterans in the civil service (via the 55-c program) and supports educational opportunities through the Veterans Tuition Awards.
• Women Veterans: The agency has a dedicated Women Veterans Program Coordinator to address the unique healthcare and reintegration needs of the growing population of women who have served.

Office Information

The Albany executive office is located on the 17th Floor of Agency Building 2 within the Empire State Plaza complex. While the main hotline (1-888-838-7697) connects veterans to services statewide, this office handles administrative oversight and policy development. Veterans seeking direct counseling should typically schedule an appointment to ensure an advisor is available to review their case in depth.