American Legion Programs

The American Legion's Family Support Network is ready to provide immediate assistance to service personnel and families whose lives have been directly affected by America's war on terror.

The American Legion has a nationwide toll-free telephone number, (800) 504-4098, for servicemembers and their family members to call for assistance. Applicants can also apply online.

Since its establishment in 1925, The American Legion Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) program has awarded cash grants to minor children of veterans who are eligible for American Legion membership. These grants help families in need meet the cost of shelter, food, utilities and health expenses, thereby keeping the child or children in a more stable environment. 

Who is eligible for a grant?

TFA is limited to minor children (17 years or younger) whose biological parent, or legal guardian, is a veteran and is, or would have been, eligible for American Legion membership. However, Legion membership is not required. Children 18-20 years old will also be considered if a current disability requires special schooling or indefinite in-home care, or they are enrolled in an approved high school and unmarried. To be eligible for Legion membership, the parent or guardian must have served at least one day of active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during one of the following periods:

• Dec. 7, 1941-Dec. 31, 1946

• June 25, 1950-Jan. 31, 1955

• Feb. 28, 1961-May 7, 1975

• August 24, 1982-July 31, 1984

• Dec. 20, 1989-Jan. 31, 1990

• Aug. 2, 1990-Cessation of hostilities as determined by the U.S. Government.

No child is considered eligible for Temporary Financial Assistance until a complete investigation is conducted at the post or department level; a legitimate family need is determined; and all other available assistance resources have been utilized or exhausted. Additionally, the TFA application must originate and be filled out by someone at the local level.

For more information or to apply
Contact your local American Legion post.

Accredited American Legion service officers are specially trained to provide expert assistance, free of charge, to veterans and their families. While the majority of a service officer’s work involves application for VA disability benefits, these compassionate professionals also provide information, referrals and resources on education, employment and business, death benefits and other important topics.