Veterans have proven their patriotism and have sacrificed for our nation, and in return, they’re entitled to benefits. While these benefits can’t compare to the service they’ve provided, they can play an important role in the lives of veterans and their families. If you have questions or concerns regarding your veterans’ benefits, consult with an experienced veterans benefits attorney today.
Types of Claims
Service-connected disability claims are the most common type of claim, and they are based on injuries or illnesses that occurred during military service. These claims require evidence linking the disability to the veteran’s service, such as medical records and statements from witnesses. The VA provides compensation for these disabilities, helping veterans get the support they need.
Non-service-connected disability claims are for disabilities that are not related to military service. These claims may include conditions that developed after the veteran left the military or were present before military service. While these claims do not receive compensation from the VA, they may still be eligible for other benefits, such as healthcare or vocational rehabilitation services.
Individual unemployability claims are for veterans who are unable to maintain substantially gainful employment due to their service-connected disabilities. These claims allow veterans to receive compensation at the 100% disability rate, even if their overall rating is lower. The VA evaluates veterans’ ability to work based on their disabilities and work history.
Eligibility Criteria for Veterans
In order to achieve eligibility for the majority of benefits that are available to veterans, you must have served a minimum of 24 continuous months of active duty, or must have completed the full period of active duty ordered. This rule applies to all veterans whose service went into effect on or after October 16, 1981. No regular rule regarding length of service applies to eligibility prior to this date. Instead, each benefit had its own specific rules that guided application.
Exceptions to this general rule of eligibility include:
- There is no prescribed length of service for those who are disabled or killed in the course of service.
- Life insurance benefits flow to the named beneficiary when a member of the military dies while on active duty.
The Appeals Process
Some claims do not go as smoothly as hoped, and common issues can include:
- Lack of sufficient medical documentation
- Meeting the VA’s specific rules and regulations
- Having appropriate evidence to support the claim
When a veteran disagrees with a claim denial, they have different appeal options, including:
- Filing a Supplemental Claim that provides new and relevant evidence
- Requesting a Higher-Level Review of an initial or supplemental claim
- Filing with the Board of Veteran’s Appeals
Working closely with a dedicated veterans’ benefits attorney is always advised to know the best course of action for your appeal.
Disability Compensation
Veterans’ disability compensation affords those veterans who were injured, who became ill, or whose health condition worsened in the line of service compensation in the form of a monthly tax-free payment. Qualifying conditions include:
- A chronic illness or injury
- A mental health condition, such as PTSD that developed prior to, during, or after service
The administration will assign a disability rating based on the severity of a condition, which dictates the amount of benefits a veteran is eligible to receive.
The best way to apply for veterans disability benefits is online, though there are different methods, including a paper application, based on the specific circumstances.
VA Healthcare Benefits
All veterans receive coverage for basic health care, but each veteran’s medical benefits package is unique to them specifically, and not all veterans qualify for additional benefits, such as dental care. Various factors affect coverage, and a savvy veterans’ benefits attorney can help ensure that you’re adequately covered.
Survivor Benefits
The veterans’ survivor benefit plan ensures that an eligible beneficiary receives up to 55 percent of the service member’s retirement pay upon their death. This program affords automatic, no-cost coverage to service members on active duty and to reserve component members who die of a service-related cause while engaged in inactive duty training. Additionally, active-duty service members can purchase coverage upon retirement.
Contact an Experienced Veterans Benefits Attorney Today
If you’re a veteran who is entitled to benefits, Maaz Quraishi is a practiced veterans benefits attorney who dedicates his impressive practice to zealously defending the rights of veterans like you – in pursuit of the full scope of benefits to which they’re entitled. We are on your side and here to help, so please don’t wait to contact or call us for more information today.