When you serve in the military, you do so knowing full well that you are putting your life and health on the line. Of those who return home safely, many suffer physical and mental injuries as a result of their service that impacts their ability to work or thrive. Veterans disability compensation is a benefit provided to veterans who were discharged or released on conditions other than dishonorable and who can prove that they are suffering from a disability that was either the result of an injury during their military service or an injury that was aggravated during their military service. They are also provided for disabilities presumed to be related to service but that did not arise until afterward. Whether you served in the Army, Navy, Air Force or Marines, if you have been diagnosed with or treated for a severe medical condition that occurred during your time of service, you may be eligible for these benefits.
Veterans disability compensation benefits are tax-free and paid monthly, with the amount of compensation dependent on the level of disability. The disability rating is determined by your local Veterans Affairs office upon their receipt of your application for benefits. The easiest way to apply is online. Veterans should establish an eBenefits account, then fill out the online application. You will need your discharge or separation papers, medical evidence of your disability, and any applicable dependency records for spouses or children. You can also print out Veterans Affairs Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits.
In addition to traumatic injuries suffered during your time in the service, veterans are also entitled to file disability claims for specific conditions, including:
- Agent Orange exposure suffered during the Vietnam War. To file a claim for this disability, you need proof of having served between Jan. 9, 1962 and May 7, 1975, as well as a diagnosis of chronic illness within a year of your discharge date.
- Gulf War Syndrome, a diagnosis common in those who served in Iraq either during the Gulf War or more recently. Symptoms include skin or respiratory problems, headaches, stomach problems or chronic fatigue.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, a mental disability characterized by depression and/or anxiety.
If you need assistance in determining whether you are eligible for benefits, or have had your application turned down, we can help. Contact Malamut & Associates today to set up a convenient time for your appointment.