A veteran who has suffered an injury or illness caused or made worse by military service may receive disability benefits. It doesn’t matter how much time has passed since your active duty. Anyone who is eligible to receive veterans disability benefits should apply to claim them as soon as possible.
Application methods
– The federal government provides an online application for disability benefits for veterans. Visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website to start the application process.
– Applicants can also send their documentation by mail. Visit the Veterans Affairs website to download the correct form, then mail it to the nearest Veterans Affairs (VA) office; are located throughout the country.
– If you are inside the United States, you can call the VA office at 800-827-1000 to submit an application over the phone. Veterans located outside of the United States should call 412-395-6272.
additional assistance
It is also possible to receive help in completing and submitting documents. A disability attorney can help you complete your claim, or you can visit a VA service organization or office to get help from their representatives.
complete the paperwork
The application requires information about the medical conditions that require compensation. When completing these forms, please include specific information about diagnosed conditions, injuries and illnesses. If possible, please add specific details, such as the date you first started experiencing symptoms and any specific medical diagnoses you received from your doctors. Submit copies of your medical records that verify and support your disability claim, if possible. You have up to one year to submit the necessary documentation. If you don’t have all of your records, the federal government can request them on your behalf.
The process
When you receive confirmation of your disability or illness, apply for compensation immediately. The early application retains this date as the effective date of benefits, which may affect the amount of benefits you receive. Don’t let a lack of medical documentation of your disability prevent you from completing the process; you can submit verification documentation later, if necessary.
Chronology
The approval process for veterans’ disability benefits can vary. You may receive a decision within a few months, but it may take up to three or more years of processing to reach a decision. Some applicants may expedite approval by submitting complete medical records with the initial application. This can effectively speed up review time and allow the government to issue a decision more quickly.
special status
Some people are eligible for special fast track status. Former prisoners of war, as well as those who have suffered military-related sexual trauma or have post-traumatic stress disorder, receive priority processing on their claims. Additionally, Vietnam veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange and are filing a claim will receive special priority processing. Those who are homeless or have emergency financial needs may also receive priority service.
If you are unsure how to proceed with an application for veterans disability benefits, seek professional assistance so you can file your claim in a timely manner.