How to Qualify For Veterans Disability Compensation

If you're a vet suffering from an illness or injury caused by military service, you might qualify for veterans disability compensation. But the process could be complicated.

It's best to file your claims as quickly as possible. VA requires time to be reviewed and to assign an assessment.

Service-Connected Disabilities

Disabilities that are a result of service are those that were caused or exacerbated by military service. Physical health conditions such as Lou Gehrig's Disease, chronic knee injuries, as also mental health issues like PTSD are all included. These include chronic skin conditions that require frequent VA visits to get special ointments or appliances. These types of veterans often qualify for compensation and services which include free healthcare and prescription medications.

To prove their service veterans must provide medical evidence that links their condition to their military service. This is typically based on service treatment records. However independent medical opinions as well as a an nexus document can also help.

The VA uses a rating scale, based on Congressional law to determine what conditions are entitled to compensation and at what percentage. In general, the higher the disability ratings is the better the benefits offered.

The highest rating that can be achieved is 100% permanent and total disabilities. This means that the veteran is unable to pursue any kind of gainful work. If they have a rating this high may qualify for additional monthly benefits known as Aid and Attendance. This allows disabled veterans or their spouse with a survivor to receive assistance in daily tasks such as washing, dressing and cleaning, eating, and addressing the needs of nature. This can include arranging transportation and making home modifications to make the home more accessible.

Permanent and Total Disability

For many Veterans, a VA determination of disability is an important lifeline. The additional income from a disability grant is extremely beneficial and affordable, as it is tax-free. It may not cover the mortgage, but it can provide food on the table and help children through college. It can mean the difference between having a job and having a house and car.

After a claim for a veteran has been approved at the Regional Office, they will receive an Rating Decision. The Rating Decision outlines the veteran's service-related conditions and assigns a rating to each. In some instances a single condition is rated at 100 percent, while in other instances, multiple conditions, they are combined into what's called the Total Disabled Individual (TDIU) rating. TDIU is a designation that lasts forever which means that the combined effect of your medical conditions prevent you from being able to maintain substantially gainful employment.

You can apply for an upgrade to a permanent total rating if you have a TDIU. To do this, you need to file an application for Special Monthly Compensation. The VA provides this benefit to veterans who are permanently and totally disabled as a result of an amputation, loss of organs or body parts or any combination of the two. This is an unavoidable distinction. However, the C&P Examiner is able to reduce the rating if your impairments improve or could increase.

Service-Related Disabilities

Many veterans suffer from ailments which have a profound impact on their ability to lead an active and productive life. These include chronic pain, mental disorders (like PTSD), and injuries. Disability compensation can help veterans reduce the financial burden of these conditions. These conditions can be severe and last a long time.

The VA uses a system to rate disabilities to determine their severity of the condition and determine the benefit amount. The ratings vary from 0% up to 100 percent with higher percentages suggesting greater levels of disability. The criteria for determining this rating is based on several factors, including the effect the injury or illness can have on the veteran's daily routine and life.

In some instances there are instances where veterans disability lawsuits are able to show direct service connection to their disability. If evidence exists that the illness or injury was a result of military service for example, a head injury resulting in trauma or paralysis could be considered as a direct connection to service. However, certain conditions like tinnitus and anxiety or depression disorders are considered to be secondary conditions that aren't directly related to the veteran's service in the military.

To be eligible for benefits, veterans should provide as as much medical evidence and other documentation as is possible. This could include private medical records as well as service treatment records. Having the support of a County Veterans Service Office or Veterans Service Representative can also expedite the claim process. It is vital to submit dates of treatment as precisely as possible and send the requested information as fast as you can to the VA.

PTSD

It is possible to experience long-lasting effects on both your body and mind after an event that is traumatic. This can result in flashbacks, nightmares, trouble concentrating at work or school, feelings of fear and horror, and a loss of interest in activities you used to love. It can also trigger anxiety or depression and could lead to abuse substances.

There are effective treatments for PTSD. They can help you get your life back on track and reduce your symptoms. Most involve psychological treatment such as talking therapy or counseling, but medications are also available.

Research on PTSD suggests that it's not only caused by trauma, but also due to changes in brain function. It can also be exacerbated by personal and environmental factors such as living in conflict zones or having an underlying mental illness.

Mental health issues, such as PTSD, are considered "high-value" claims by the VA because they are more difficult to prove with medical evidence than conditions like neurological, skin or musculoskeletal issues. Veterans suffering from mental illness are more likely to be awarded a disability rating that is higher than 30% than those who do not.