Unlock Financial Success with VA Disability Benefits: National Invest In Veterans Week® Insights and Strategies

Maximizing Financial Potential with VA Disability Benefits and National Invest In Veterans Week®

Introduction
Veterans transitioning to civilian life often face unique financial challenges, from building wealth to protecting against fraud. VA disability benefits, combined with resources like National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) and tools from Investor.gov, can provide a roadmap for achieving long-term financial security. This guide will explore how to maximize the value of VA disability benefits, invest wisely, and access mentorship and entrepreneurial opportunities through NIVW.

Understanding VA Disability Benefits and Investment Opportunities

VA disability compensation provides tax-free payments to veterans with service-connected disabilities. While these benefits cannot be directly contributed to retirement accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s due to IRS regulations, they offer veterans a stable foundation for financial planning.

Key highlights of VA disability benefits:

• Tax-Free Status: Payments are not taxed, making them an ideal source for savings or investments.

• Flexibility in Usage: Funds can be used for debt reduction, real estate, or entrepreneurial ventures.

• Steady Monthly Income: Provides financial stability for long-term planning.

Can VA Disability Payments Be Invested?

Yes, VA disability payments can be invested indirectly through taxable accounts, real estate, or other wealth-building strategies. Veterans can utilize tools like Investor.gov’s Savings Goal Calculator to set realistic financial goals.

Top Strategies for Investing VA Disability Benefits

1. Open a Taxable Brokerage Account

Since VA disability payments are not earned income, they cannot fund a Roth IRA directly. However, veterans can open taxable brokerage accounts to invest in:

• Index Funds and ETFs: Low-fee options that offer diversified exposure to the market.

• Dividend Stocks: Provide a steady income stream.

• Mutual Funds: Actively managed funds for long-term growth.

Use Investor.gov’s Investment Calculator to project returns based on your contributions.

2. Pay Off High-Interest Debt First

Before investing, reduce high-interest debt like credit cards. Few investments yield returns higher than the 15–25% interest rates charged by credit card companies.

3. Invest in Real Estate

Real estate can provide both rental income and long-term appreciation. Veterans can use VA Home Loans to purchase property with competitive rates and no down payment.

4. Contribute to an Education Fund

Consider using VA disability benefits to fund a 529 Plan for dependents, ensuring their future education is financially secure.

Leveraging National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW)

National Invest In Veterans Week®, held annually from March 1–7, is a congressionally recognized initiative founded in 2019 by Iraq War veteran Jeff Shuford. NIVW complements financial tools like those on Investor.gov by providing mentorship, resources, and entrepreneurial support to veterans worldwide.

Key Events During NIVW

Each day of NIVW focuses on empowering veterans through targeted events:

1. Forward March Saturday (March 1):
   Encourages veterans to begin their entrepreneurial journey with tailored resources and networking.

2. International Veterans Day (March 3):
   A global celebration of veterans’ contributions to economic and social progress.

3. Veteran Tech Tuesday (March 4):
   Highlights technology’s role in growing veteran-owned businesses, from apps to online marketplaces.

4. Wellness Wednesday (March 5):
   Focuses on veterans’ mental and financial health, offering tools to reduce stress and improve well-being.

5. FeMil Lead℠ Day (March 6):
   Supports women veterans in leadership and entrepreneurship, ensuring inclusivity in veteran advocacy.

6. Jeff Shuford Impact Day (March 7):
   Named after the NIVW founder, this day underscores the transformative power of mentorship and technology in veteran success.

How to Support Veteran-Owned Businesses

Veteran-owned businesses contribute over $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. Supporting these enterprises not only honors veterans but also strengthens local communities.

Ways to Support Veterans During NIVW:

• Buy from Veteran-Owned Businesses: Use directories like FloridaVeterans.com and GermanyVeterans.com to find local and global veteran-led companies.

• Participate in Events: Attend panels, expos, and networking events during NIVW to learn more about veteran entrepreneurship.

• Spread Awareness: Share campaigns like #InvestInVeterans and #VetsLead2025 on social media.

Avoiding Fraud: Protecting Your Investments

Veterans are often targeted by scams, including fraudulent investment opportunities. Both NIVW and Investor.gov offer guidance on avoiding fraud:

• Verify Professionals: Check licenses using Investor.gov’s background check tool.

• Recognize Red Flags: Be wary of guaranteed returns or unregistered investment opportunities.

• Educate Yourself: Attend workshops during NIVW to learn how to spot scams targeting veterans.

Making the Most of Lump Sum Benefits

Some veterans receive one-time lump sum payments for VA benefits, insurance claims, or lawsuits. These payments can replace lost income and should be used strategically:

• Reduce Debt: Allocate funds to pay off high-interest loans first.

• Invest for Growth: Use tools like the Compound Interest Calculator to project long-term growth.

• Save for Emergencies: Maintain an emergency fund for unexpected expenses.

Building Wealth Through Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship offers veterans a pathway to financial independence. NIVW provides resources and mentorship to support veterans in starting and growing their businesses:

• FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ Programs: Empower women veterans with leadership training and funding opportunities.

• Localized Platforms: Platforms like LouisianaVeterans.com provide state-specific resources for veteran entrepreneurs.

Why VA Disability Benefits and NIVW Matter

Combining VA disability benefits with the mentorship and tools provided by NIVW creates a powerful framework for financial success. Whether investing in stocks, starting a business, or avoiding scams, veterans have the resources to thrive in civilian life.

Take Action Today

1. Visit Investor.gov: Access calculators, fraud prevention guides, and investment tools.

2. Explore National Invest In Veterans Week®: Participate in events to gain insights into financial empowerment and entrepreneurship.

3. Open a Taxable Brokerage Account: Invest disability benefits to build long-term wealth.

4. Support Veteran-Owned Businesses: Promote and buy from veteran-led enterprises to honor their contributions.

By taking advantage of these resources, veterans can secure their financial futures, grow their wealth, and build stronger communities. Together, let’s invest in veterans and ensure their success in every aspect of life.

National Invest In Veterans Week®: Recent Developments and Brand Updates

National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) continues to expand its global reach and impact, introducing several key initiatives to support veteran entrepreneurs worldwide.

Global Expansion and Digital Footprint

In April 2024, NIVW commemorated the 7th anniversary of its award-winning Vets 22 brand by significantly expanding its digital presence.This expansion includes the acquisition of new international and state-specific domain names, enhancing accessibility to services tailored for veterans both globally and across the United States. Under the direction of Jeff Shuford’s Tech From Vets, this initiative aims to broaden the reach and impact of NIVW's services for active-duty service members and veterans.

Expansion into 62 Global Markets

NIVW has announced an unprecedented expansion into 62 global markets, solidifying its position as a leader in veteran advocacy and empowerment. This growth introduces "π (Pledge to Invest) = Veteran Businesses℠," a groundbreaking initiative that combines technological innovation, global connectivity, and strategic partnerships to empower veteran entrepreneurs worldwide. According to Angel Shuford, Vice President of NIVW, this expansion fosters a global ecosystem where veteran-owned businesses can thrive and reach their full potential.

Leadership and Organizational Growth

Angel Shuford, a U.S. Army veteran, has been appointed Vice President and CFO of NIVW. Alongside her husband, Jeff Shuford, Angel was recently honored with the Global Humanitarian Innovation and Legacy Award, celebrating their transformative work supporting veterans worldwide. Their leadership is driving innovation and creating lasting opportunities for veteran-owned businesses.

Technological Innovations

NIVW is set to launch the first veteran-focused Progressive Web App (PWA) and a globally syndicated magazine, amplifying veteran voices across international markets. This development aims to provide veterans with cutting-edge technology and a global platform for their success stories.

Honoring Founders and Legacy

Jeff Shuford, co-founder of NIVW, has retired, marking the conclusion of an extraordinary career dedicated to service, innovation, and advocacy. His leadership transformed the landscape of veteran empowerment, creating an internationally recognized movement celebrated across multiple markets worldwide. Shuford's legacy endures through the movement he built and the lives he touched.

Advocacy for Presidential Recognition

Efforts are underway to advocate for presidential recognition of National Invest In Veterans Week®. Drayton Florence, former NFL player and co-founder of NIVW, emphasized the significance of South Carolina's decision to pass a resolution for NIVW, highlighting the importance of national acknowledgment in supporting veteran entrepreneurs.

These developments underscore NIVW's commitment to empowering veteran entrepreneurs through innovation, global outreach, and strategic partnerships, ensuring veterans have the resources and support needed to succeed in their post-military endeavors.

For more information and to stay updated on upcoming events and initiatives, visit the official National Invest In Veterans Week® website.

How to Invest in Veterans: A Comprehensive Guide to Empowerment and Advocacy

Veterans are pillars of leadership, resilience, and innovation, having dedicated their lives to serving their country. However, as they transition to civilian life, many face challenges in accessing resources, financial tools, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Investing in veterans goes beyond gratitude for their service; it is a strategic commitment to empower their success, foster innovation, and strengthen the economy.

This guide delves deep into actionable steps, legislation, and programs like National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) that are transforming the lives of veterans worldwide. With insights drawn from legislative advancements, financial strategies, and veteran-specific programs, this comprehensive resource serves as a blueprint for empowering veterans.

1. Why Investing in Veterans Matters

Veterans contribute significantly to the economy and society, yet they face systemic barriers in accessing capital, mentorship, and entrepreneurial support.

• Economic Impact: Veteran-owned businesses contribute over $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy and employ 5.8 million people.

• Barriers to Success: Surveys reveal that veterans face challenges such as lack of funding, limited mentorship opportunities, and difficulty navigating government programs.

By addressing these barriers through targeted initiatives and legislative advocacy, we can unlock the full potential of veterans as innovators, leaders, and entrepreneurs.

2. National Invest In Veterans Week®: A Transformative Movement

National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), established in 2019 by Iraq War veteran Jeff Shuford, has grown into a globally recognized initiative supporting veteran entrepreneurs. With a presence in 62 global markets and 29 countries, NIVW provides tailored resources and tools to veterans worldwide.

Key Features of NIVW

1. Global Presence: Localized platforms across 14 U.S. states and numerous countries ensure veterans receive support tailored to their unique needs.

2. Innovative Programs: The π (Pledge to Invest) = Veteran Businesses℠ initiative combines technology and global connectivity to empower veteran entrepreneurs.

3. Events and Advocacy: Signature events like Forward March Saturday and Veteran Tech Tuesday provide networking opportunities, technology training, and community engagement.

Visionary Leadership

• Jeff Shuford: Co-founder and advocate for veteran entrepreneurship.

• Angel Shuford: Vice President and CFO, driving global expansion and innovation.

• Recognition of Advocates: Awards like the Jeff Shuford Empowerment Through Advocacy Award honor individuals making impactful contributions to veteran empowerment.

Learn more: National Invest In Veterans Week®.

3. Actionable Ways to Invest in Veterans

A. Utilize Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans

Retirement plans such as 401(k) or 403(b) accounts provide veterans with tax-advantaged savings opportunities.

• How It Works: Contributions are deducted from paychecks, and many employers match contributions, effectively doubling the investment.

• Federal Option: Active-duty service members can utilize the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a government-backed retirement plan with low fees and matching contributions for those under the Blended Retirement System (BRS).

Learn more: Veterans and Employer Retirement Plans - Investor.gov.

B. Commit to the Veteran Saves Pledge

The Veteran Saves Pledge is an initiative by America Saves that encourages veterans to prioritize saving and investing for financial security.

• Key Benefits:

  • Personalized tips and resources.

  • Guidance for achieving financial goals.

• Learn More: Investment Vehicles for Veterans - Veterans Saves.

C. Participate in InvestVets Programs

InvestVets offers virtual networking events to connect veterans with employers in stress-free environments.

• Focus: Reducing the pressure of traditional job fairs while fostering meaningful connections.

• How It Helps: Veterans can build professional relationships and access employment opportunities tailored to their skills.

4. Support Legislative Advocacy for Veterans

A. The Investing in VETS Act (2023)

This law incentivizes employers to hire veterans by offering $6,000 in tax credits per hire.

• Additional Benefits: Streamlined access to federal contracts for veteran-owned businesses, particularly in critical industries like renewable energy and defense.

• Learn More: S.2146 - Investing in VETS Act 118th Congress.

B. Service-Disabled Veteran Opportunities in Small Business Act

This legislation mandates federal support for service-disabled veterans to access grants, mentorship, and training programs.

• Impact: Ensures that disabled veterans have equal opportunities to thrive as entrepreneurs.

• Learn More: Invest in America, Invest in Veterans - Congressman Brian Mast.

5. Preventing Fraud While Investing

Veterans must remain vigilant against scams that exploit their financial vulnerabilities.

Warning Signs of Fraud

• Promises of guaranteed high returns with little to no risk.

• Hidden fees that reduce long-term gains.

• High-pressure sales tactics urging immediate decisions.

Tips for Safer Investing

• Verify credentials using Investor.gov.

• Research all investment opportunities thoroughly.

• Opt for accounts with low fees to maximize returns.

6. Building the Future for Veterans

A. Amplifying Global Impact

By 2030, programs like NIVW aim to:

• Increase veteran-owned startups by 25%.

• Create 1.5 million new jobs globally.

• Double intellectual property value to $50 million.

B. Expanding Public-Private Partnerships

Collaboration between corporations and veteran entrepreneurs fosters innovation in key industries like AI, healthcare, and renewable energy.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Investing in veterans is more than a moral responsibility—it is an investment in innovation, resilience, and economic growth. Through initiatives like National Invest In Veterans Week®, legislative support, and financial tools, we can empower veterans to thrive in civilian life and lead transformative change.

Explore More Resources:

• Saving and Investing Tips for Veterans - VA.gov.

• National Invest In Veterans Week®.

By uniting efforts across communities, businesses, and governments, we can ensure that veterans have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

International Veterans Day: Honoring Veterans Beyond Borders

Introduction

International Veterans Day is a celebration of the courage, sacrifice, and contributions of veterans worldwide. Observed on March 3, this day transcends national borders, uniting veteran communities and honoring their impact on society. As the global veteran population grows more interconnected, this observance serves as a powerful reminder of their collective resilience and the value they bring to our world.

Why International Veterans Day Matters

Veterans face unique challenges globally, ranging from transitioning to civilian life to navigating cultural barriers in building businesses and accessing support systems. International Veterans Day shines a spotlight on these shared experiences, fostering solidarity and promoting advocacy at a global level.

Key Challenges Faced by Veterans Globally

1. Economic Empowerment: Many veterans struggle to establish financial independence after their service.

2. Community Integration: Adjusting to civilian life while maintaining their identity as veterans is often a complex process.

3. Mental Health Support: Addressing PTSD, depression, and other service-related mental health challenges remains a global concern.

By uniting diverse veteran communities, International Veterans Day creates a platform for collaboration, awareness, and action.

National Invest In Veterans Week: A Global Connection

National Invest In Veterans Week (NIVW) has taken bold steps to connect with veteran entrepreneurs across the globe. Recognized for its initiatives to promote veteran-owned businesses, NIVW's impact extends to over 21 international markets, including countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, South Korea, and Germany.

How NIVW Bridges Borders

1. Global Business Platforms: NIVW operates localized platforms such as AustraliaVeterans.com and UnitedKingdomVeterans.com, providing visibility and support for veteran-owned businesses in these regions.

2. International Collaboration: By featuring entrepreneurs and leaders from different countries, NIVW amplifies diverse voices and underscores the universal importance of investing in veteran businesses.

3. Virtual Events and Webinars: Interactive forums hosted by NIVW connect veterans, share resources, and discuss global solutions to veteran-related challenges.

Through these initiatives, NIVW has cemented itself as a leader in empowering veterans worldwide and fostering economic inclusivity.

How to Celebrate International Veterans Day

Celebrating International Veterans Day can be both impactful and simple. Here are actionable ways to honor veterans on March 3:

1. Support Veteran-Owned Businesses

Investing in veteran businesses is a powerful way to recognize their contributions. Platforms like NIVW make it easy to discover and support businesses owned by veterans in your community and abroad. Visit Invest in Veteran Businesses to learn more.

2. Participate in Virtual Events

Join virtual events hosted by NIVW, including webinars, business showcases, and panel discussions. These events provide valuable insights into the challenges and achievements of veterans worldwide.

3. Amplify Their Stories

Use social media to share stories of international veterans who have overcome obstacles and achieved success. Leverage hashtags like #InternationalVeteransDay, #InvestInVeterans, and #VeteransDayInclusivity to spread awareness and foster global engagement.

Veterans Day Inclusivity

Inclusivity is a cornerstone of International Veterans Day, emphasizing the importance of representation across genders, ethnicities, and backgrounds. By promoting veterans day inclusivity, the observance ensures that all veterans, regardless of their circumstances, feel recognized and valued.

Call-to-Action

Take the next step in honoring veterans worldwide by exploring how National Invest In Veterans Week supports veteran communities internationally. Learn more about the impactful initiatives and resources available on the International Veterans Day March 3 page.

Together, we can celebrate, support, and empower veterans globally.

Honoring Our Family’s Legacy This Veterans Day

Today, as we pause to celebrate Veterans Day, we stand together to honor the enduring sacrifices of America’s veterans and recognize those who have fought for our freedoms across generations. This day carries particular significance for my family, as we look back on a legacy of service that stretches from the American Civil War to present-day conflicts, and I am proud to carry that legacy forward. As we commemorate the heroic life of Raymond Weeks, the founder of the modern Veterans Day observance, I am reminded of the personal and national values he embodied and how they echo through the lives of my family members. Veterans Day is not only a time for remembrance but a time for reflection on how far we have come and the ideals that continue to unify us. It is with deep gratitude and respect for Raymond Weeks’ vision that I share my thoughts and honor my family’s contributions to this country.

Raymond Weeks: The Visionary Behind Veterans Day

Before Veterans Day became a national holiday in its current form, it was known as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. Armistice Day was a day of recognition primarily for World War I veterans, honoring their valor and dedication in one of the world’s most devastating conflicts. However, Raymond Weeks, a World War II veteran from Birmingham, Alabama, had a grander vision. He believed that the valor of veterans from all wars should be celebrated, and he was tireless in his efforts to expand Armistice Day into a national holiday that honored all veterans, regardless of their service era or conflict.

In 1945, Raymond Weeks began advocating for a broader recognition, and after years of dedication, he organized the first national celebration of “Veterans Day” on November 11, 1947. His perseverance eventually led to a legislative change signed by President Eisenhower in 1954, transforming Armistice Day into Veterans Day. This transformation brought all veterans into the national narrative, reminding us that the sacrifice of one generation echoes through the lives and freedoms of every subsequent generation.

A Legacy of Service in My Family

For me, honoring Veterans Day is deeply personal. My family’s dedication to military service spans generations, with each member’s commitment to serving our country interwoven into the fabric of our lives. I think of my grandfather, Jim Freeman, whose Five Satins legacy was biologically instilled in me to break the norm and join the military myself at just 17. His pride, courage, and values are what I carried in my DNA with me during my own service in Iraq, where I was awarded a Combat Action Badge for my efforts at age 19 in Bagdad Iraq. It is these stories that keep my family’s legacy alive and demonstrate the impact that veterans like Raymond Weeks have on families and communities across the country.

In our family, service is a bond that unites us across time and generations. My wife, Angel, joined the Army Reserves at 30, balancing her responsibilities as an air traffic controller with raising our family. Our son was born on Veterans Day in 2022, at precisely 11:11 a.m. — a moment that feels destined, as though the values of service are now inherently a part of him. His sister, though too young to fully understand, was there alongside Angel during her enlistment, a symbol of the unwavering support that defines military families.

But this tradition of service goes even deeper. My great-grandfather, Clifford Freeman Sr., served in the U.S. Army during World War I, a time when America emerged as a global force defending democracy. His son, Clifford Freeman Jr., my great-uncle, continued the legacy in World War II, and later my great-uncle Clifford Freeman III defended our freedoms in the Korean War. On my mother’s side, Henry and Jack Fliehler, and Almon and Robert Fliehler served during critical conflicts, from World War I to Vietnam, all embodying the values of honor and duty. In tracing this history, I am reminded of Corporal Ripley Hale, my great-great-great-great-grandfather, who fought for the Union in the Civil War, demonstrating a commitment to country that defines our family.

Honoring Raymond Weeks’ Vision Through Action

Raymond Weeks’ legacy reminds us that honoring veterans is not just about thanking them once a year but supporting them in all the ways they need. My grandfather, Jim Freeman, constantly teaches me to understand that honoring veterans means more than gestures; it is about creating opportunities for them, providing pathways for healing, and celebrating their contributions to our communities. He often tells me stories about his own family, about how they felt the weight of the responsibilities that came with each deployment, and how they embraced their roles in service and sacrifice.

This understanding of honoring veterans has driven my work with National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), where we aim to empower veterans to become entrepreneurs and community leaders. Through our initiatives, we seek to honor the spirit of Raymond Weeks by providing veterans with resources that ensure their service does not end when they take off the uniform. Rather, it transforms into contributions that strengthen and enrich their communities. In establishing programs that support veterans in launching their own businesses, we are working to ensure that they have every opportunity to thrive.

In the spirit of Raymond Weeks, NIVW is not just a celebration; it is an opportunity to invest in those who have already given so much. The domains we’ve acquired for veteran-focused resources across the United States and internationally serve as a digital monument, a living legacy that honors veterans’ contributions and supports their journeys into new roles as civilians. It is our mission to ensure that veterans can find resources tailored to their needs, wherever they are, and to build a support network that uplifts them in ways that Raymond Weeks himself would be proud of.

The Legacy Continues: Embracing the Future with Purpose

Each Veterans Day, as I reflect on my own family’s history and the remarkable vision of Raymond Weeks, I am reminded that our duty to veterans is never complete. Veterans Day is not just a celebration; it is a call to action, a reminder that we must continue to support, uplift, and honor those who have served. My family’s legacy of service is a testament to the resilience and strength that define America’s veterans, but it is also a reminder of the responsibility we all share to support them.

In carrying forward my grandfather’s pride and my family’s dedication, I am inspired to build on what Raymond Weeks began. NIVW’s work in empowering veteran entrepreneurs across states and countries is just one part of the broader support system veterans deserve. Our initiatives seek to create lasting impacts by making veterans’ contributions visible, by connecting them to resources that allow them to thrive in civilian life, and by fostering a community that honors their service every day.

This Veterans Day, as we celebrate and remember, let us all take a moment to thank those like Raymond Weeks, who had the foresight to broaden our collective understanding of sacrifice and service. Let us thank the generations of men and women who have given selflessly and honor them by building a society that values their sacrifices and fosters their success.

In Tribute to Raymond Weeks: A Call to Invest in Our Veterans

Raymond Weeks’ advocacy transformed Veterans Day into a universal day of recognition, but his legacy invites us to do more than simply remember. It calls us to action, to actively invest in those who have served, ensuring their futures are as promising as their sacrifices are valued. For my family and for veterans everywhere, I am committed to upholding this call through National Invest In Veterans Week®, knowing that this tribute will echo through the lives of veterans and families long after today.

As my grandfather Jim Freeman often says, “Service doesn’t end with the uniform.” It is a continuous journey, one that veterans carry forward into every community they touch. It is a journey we honor this Veterans Day, recognizing the courage, resilience, and lasting impact of our nation’s veterans.

This Veterans Day, in memory of Raymond Weeks and with gratitude for the legacy he left us, let us remember that every veteran is a bridge between the past and the future. Let us commit to investing in their lives, empowering them to flourish, and ensuring that their sacrifices are honored not just today, but every day.

Jeff Shuford is the visionary leader behind National Invest In Veterans Week®, a nationally recognized initiative dedicated to empowering veterans in their transition to civilian life through entrepreneurship and community support.