Veterans are essential members of society who gave up their freedoms, rights, and safety to protect the country. To support ex-service persons who have been injured or acquired illness while on duty, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers disability benefits.
If you are a former service person with a work-related injury or illness, you might want to understand if you qualify for veteran disability benefits. Worry not, as this article explores significant things you need to know, including eligibility and requirements.
Eligibility for VA Disability Benefits
The VA outlines various eligibility requirements for veterans seeking to apply for disability benefits. Typically, you must have served in the U.S. military service or be an active service member awaiting discharge 90 to 180 days from the date of your application.
It is crucial to understand that disability benefits are only available to ex-service persons with an honorable discharge. Additionally, you must have a diagnosed condition connected to your duty. However, if you suffered a disability or illness due to misconduct, you may be ineligible for benefits.
Ex-members of the military who sustained injuries while avoiding duty may also be ruled out of the VA benefits. The case is similar to veterans who suffered disabilities while in prison or detained due to court martial.
What You Need to Get VA Disability Benefits
You must check to ensure you meet all the requirements before applying for VA benefits. This includes having the proper documents and guidance from someone familiar with the application instructions.
A typical VA disability benefits application requires you to file an application form known as Form 21-526EZ. You can download this form on the Department of Veterans Affairs website.
After filing form 21-526EZ, you must provide military service records showing the period you served in the country. The VA will also need evidence supporting your claim, including private medical records and personal statements from family or other service persons. After presenting every document, you will attend a VA medical exam to check your condition.
The Benefits Amounts
After you turn in all your required paperwork, it is in the hands of the Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA). They will take a look at everything to decide if you qualify for disability benefits. Make it past their checks, and they will peg your compensation as a percentage based on how serious your injury is.
The scale starts at 10 percent and can go up to a full 100 percent. How much cash ends up in your pocket might also change if you support a family. For instance, veterans with a spouse or kids generally get more than those without.
How to Handle a VA Benefits Denial
“The thought of the VA denying you disability benefits can be frustrating. If you believe you have been denied VA benefits unfairly, seeking legal counsel from an accredited veteran’s disability attorney can help,” says lawyer Jan Dils of Fight4Vets.
VA-accredited lawyers can guide you through the appeals process and help you understand the reason for your claim’s denial. They can also provide the best path for appeal, collect adequate evidence, and build a solid case to ensure you get the benefits you deserve.
Conclusion
If you have been injured or suffered an illness related to your service in the military, you may qualify for veteran disability benefits. However, it is essential to review the eligibility requirements of your claim to avoid late disappointments. It would also help to seek help from someone familiar with the VA benefits application process, such as a VA disability attorney, who can help you avoid unforeseen hurdles.
Source: Jan Dils Attorneys, Injury Law, West Virginia & Ohio
