For 100 years, Dominion and Provincial command service officers (CSOs) have been at the heart of The Royal Canadian Legion’s support of veterans and their families. They work tirelessly to help them navigate the complex systems of service and benefit eligibility.

One of their key responsibilities is to counsel and aid those seeking disability compensation by ensuring they have the required documentation for making the strongest claim possible. 

The job of a CSO isn’t over if an applicant is denied. They continue to advocate through every step of the process, including appeals. Applicants receive continuous support in preparing to face the Veterans Review and Appeal Board (VRAB). Their expertise can help simplify the process and strengthen applications.

More than 7,500 veterans and their families benefited from the service of CSOs in 2024, including: almost 3,500 first applications and departmental reviews were submitted to Veterans Affairs Canada for thousands of medical conditions such as hearing loss and tinnitus, mental health conditions and musculoskeletal issues with lower backs, hips, knees and ankles; over 160 review hearings, appeals, and reconsiderations to the VRAB were represented, or solely conducted, by CSOs during the year; and 800-plus claims or appeals were withdrawn after counselling with a CSO. (It’s not unheard of for a veteran to change their mind about applying or appealing for benefits and services.)

At their core, CSOs are dedicated to easing any sense of burden veterans and their families feel by guiding them through the oft-complicated benefit system. If you need assistance, contact the RCL’s veterans services at veteransservices@legion.ca or by calling 1-877-534-4666 toll free.