VA Disability Benefits

The Basics on VA Disability Benefits

If you are a United States military veteran who was injured in the line of duty, and currently have a condition that is a direct result of your injuries, you may be eligible for disability benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The following information outlines the requirements for eligibility through the program.

 

What are veterans disability benefits?
Veterans disability benefits are monthly payments that a veteran can receive through the VA. The amount of the benefit is dependent on the degree to which the veteran is disabled. These benefits can also include travel costs if the recipient must travel to receive treatment or rehabilitation services.

 

Who is eligible for veteran’s benefits?
To be eligible for veteran’s benefits, you must be a veteran of the U.S. military or a current member of the military who is expecting to be discharged shortly. Applicants must also meet the following qualifications:

a) Must have a diagnosed disability or disease
b) There must have been an incident during active service
c) You must prove the disability is service-connected

 

Applying for benefits
If you believe that you qualify for benefits, your next step is to submit an application. To do so, you should follow these steps:

a) Download VA form 21-526 from the VA’s website, or by clicking here.
b) File the form with your local VA Regional Office.
c) You may also file electronically by filling out the form here.

 

Along with your application, you must also provide the following documentation:
a) Discharge paperwork for all periods of service
b) Medical records
c) Evidence of your claimed disability
d) Evidence the disability is service-related
e) Any marriage certificates
f) Any divorce records
g) Birth or adoption records of all dependent children
h) Any nursing home records

 

How long does the process take?
Applying for benefits is, unfortunately, a slow process. Those who are lucky may get an answer within a few months. However, it can take as long as three years for some applicant to be fully processed and a determination made.

 

Claim denials
If your initial claim for veteran’s disability benefits is denied, you can appeal the decision. To do so, you must file a notice of Disagreement (NOD) with the VA office that issued the denial.

 

If you believe you are entitled to veteran’s disability benefits, it is always best to consult with a disability lawyer who has experience working with vets. The staff at London Eligibility has the knowledge and experience necessary to get the results you need. Contact us today to see how we can help you.