It can be difficult to get benefits from the VA. Working with an attorney to prepare your claim or your appeal before you submit it can make all the difference. But before you contact a lawyer and start pursuing these benefits in a more efficient manner, you might want to go over some of these common questions and answers beforehand. If you can answer your questions before your first consultation, it is easier to move forward with your lawyer without wasting as much time. Gaining a greater understanding of veterans’ benefits helps you achieve a greater sense of confidence, allowing you to make more informed decisions. Here are some of the most common questions people ask about Veterans’ Benefits:
Do I Need to Be Disabled to Get Benefits?
If you want to take advantage of disability benefits through the VA, you must show that you were disabled. Not only that, but you must show that you incurred your disability as a direct result of military service. For example, you may have suffered an injury or an illness while on active duty. You may also receive benefits for a pre-existing condition that was made worse by military service. The definition of “active” is important when determining your type of service.
Your eligibility for benefits may also depend on the circumstances in which you were discharged. The five branches of the US military include the Army, the Navy, the Marine Corps, the Air Force, and the Coast Guard. That being said, you may still qualify for benefits even if you did not serve in one of these branches. The definition of a “veteran” is extremely nuanced, and it is best to speak with a lawyer if you want to determine your eligibility.
With all that said, it is important to remember that there may be many other VA benefits available for those who are not disabled. For example, veterans’ preference allows you to enjoy better job opportunities in some cases in the federal government. You do not need to be disabled in order to qualify for veterans’ preference.
Can I Appeal a Denied Disability Benefits Claim?
Yes, you are perfectly within your rights to appeal a decision you disagree with – whether that involves a denied disability benefits claim or any other VA process. This process changed in 2019, and you now have three decision review options to choose from. These options include supplemental claims, higher-level reviews, or board appeals. If one option fails to provide results, you can try a different option. To give yourself the best possible chance of a positive outcome, you should work with a qualified attorney to review your denied claim and appeal the decision.
What Kind of Disability Benefits Can I Receive?
US veterans can receive compensation for disabilities incurred while serving in the military. This compensation is designed to offset the cost of medical treatments, missed wages, and any other out-of-pocket expenses associated with injuries and illnesses. Covered conditions include chronic back pain, scar tissue, hearing loss, ulcers, cancers, TBIs, depression, and much more. You can also get compensated for severe injuries like amputations, bullet wounds, and things of that nature.
Military veterans can receive compensation from Social Security and the VA at the same time. In fact, veterans receive expedited processing when applying for SSDI. While this does not necessarily guarantee that you will receive benefits from both government programs, many veterans do, in fact, enjoy compensation from both sources.
One thing to keep in mind is that SSDI is typically reserved for those who cannot work due to their medical conditions. On the other hand, VA disability benefits may be provided to veterans who can still work to some extent. Instead of trying to determine whether or not your ability to work has been affected, the VA simply rates your injury based on a sliding scale and awards compensation based on its severity.
Can I Get Benefits for My PTSD?
Yes, disability benefits are not simply reserved for those with physical injuries. You can also get compensation for PTSD, depression, anxiety, and a range of other psychological issues. In order to receive compensation for these issues, you will need to prove that they exist. The VA has specific guidelines when it comes to PTSD, and you must meet a number of eligibility requirements. The “stressor” or traumatic event must have occurred during your service, and it must affect your ability to function. In addition, a qualified doctor must officially diagnose you with PTSD.
What Kind of Documents Do I Need to Apply for VA Benefits?
You will need to gather up a number of important documents before you apply for VA benefits. Find your social security number as well as the SSNs of your spouse and dependents. You should also get a copy of your military discharge papers – usually known as a “DD214.” Finally, get copies of your insurance information, including your insurance card and a detailed description of your coverage. This includes coverage provided by your spouse. Finally, you should get evidence of your gross household income from the previous calendar year and your deductible expenses.
Can I Apply for VA Benefits Even if I am Not a Citizen?
Yes, you can apply for VA benefits if you served in the US military without being a US citizen. The VA website clearly states that “most VA benefits are payable regardless of your place of residence or your nationality.” The only thing you need to keep in mind is that reserve and guard members are not eligible unless they are specifically called into service by the president.
Get Help From a Veterans’ Benefits Lawyer Today
If you have been searching for a qualified, experienced lawyer who can help you get benefits from the VA, look no further than the Elderly Care Law Firm. Over the years, we have helped numerous veterans fight for their rights and experience the benefits they deserve. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective action plan and pursue the benefits you need.
