Veterans have served and sacrificed for their country, and when they come home, they deserve the benefits and care they were promised. However, the VA claims process can be confusing, frustrating, and time-consuming. Many veterans struggle to get the disability benefits they are entitled to because of incomplete applications, missing medical records, or outright claim denials.
At Elderly Care Law Firm, we help veterans understand the VA claims process, file for benefits correctly, and fight back against unfair denials. Whether you’re applying for the first time or need help with an appeal, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
What is the VA Claims Process?
The VA claims process is the official procedure for veterans to apply for disability benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits provide monthly tax-free compensation to veterans who were injured, became ill, or developed a disability due to their military service.
The claims process involves several steps:
- Filing a VA Disability Claim – Veterans submit an application for disability benefits, along with medical evidence and service records.
- VA Review and Medical Examination – The VA evaluates the claim, schedules a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam, and reviews medical records.
- VA Makes a Decision – The VA assigns a disability rating (from 0% to 100%), which determines the monthly compensation amount.
- Receiving Benefits or Filing an Appeal – If approved, veterans start receiving benefits. If denied or given a lower rating than expected, they can appeal the decision.
Many veterans don’t realize that even a small mistake on their application can lead to long delays or a denial. Working with a VA attorney increases the chances of success.
Who is Eligible for VA Disability Benefits?
To qualify for VA disability compensation, a veteran must meet three basic criteria:
- Have served in the U.S. military (active duty, National Guard, or Reserves).
- Have a service-connected injury, illness, or disability that occurred during or was worsened by military service.
- Have medical evidence showing how the condition affects daily life.
Common conditions that qualify for VA disability benefits include:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Hearing loss and tinnitus
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Back, neck, and joint injuries
- Respiratory conditions from burn pit exposure
- Cancers linked to Agent Orange or toxic exposure
Even if a veteran’s disability was diagnosed years after service, they may still qualify for benefits.
How Much Compensation Do Veterans Receive?
VA disability compensation depends on the veteran’s disability rating, which ranges from 0% to 100%.
As of 2025, the estimated monthly compensation rates are:
- 10% disability rating – Around $171 per month
- 50% disability rating – Around $1,075 per month
- 100% disability rating – Around $3,700+ per month
Veterans with dependents (such as a spouse or children) may receive additional compensation.
What If My VA Claim is Denied?
Many veterans receive denials or lower-than-expected disability ratings because of:
- Missing or incomplete medical records
- Lack of evidence connecting the disability to military service
- Failure to attend a VA Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam
- Administrative errors by the VA
A denied claim is not the end of the road. Veterans have the right to appeal the decision and fight for the benefits they deserve.
How to Appeal a VA Claim Denial
If a claim is denied or rated too low, veterans can appeal through:
- Higher-Level Review – A more senior VA official reviews the claim without new evidence.
- Supplemental Claim – New medical evidence is submitted to strengthen the case.
- Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) – A formal appeal to request a hearing before a judge.
Appealing a VA decision can take months or even years without legal assistance. An experienced VA attorney can build a stronger case, gather supporting documents, and improve the chances of winning the appeal.
How Can an Attorney Help with a VA Claim?
Filing a VA claim seems simple, but many veterans struggle with denials and long wait times. A VA attorney can:
- Ensure the claim is filed correctly the first time
- Gather the right medical evidence to prove service connection
- Prepare for a VA Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam
- Appeal denied claims and fight for a higher disability rating
- Help surviving spouses and dependents apply for VA benefits
Veterans shouldn’t have to battle the VA alone. At Elderly Care Law Firm, we are committed to helping veterans receive the disability compensation and healthcare benefits they earned.
If you or a loved one need help with the VA claims process or an appeal, call Elderly Care Law Firm at (305) 564-6606 today for a free consultation. We stand with our veterans and fight for their rights.
