A veteran who has suffered an injury or illness caused or aggravated by his military service can receive disability benefits. It does not matter how much time has passed since your active duty. Anyone eligible for Veterans Disability benefits should apply for them to claim as soon as possible.
Application methods
– The federal government provides an online application for Veterans Disability benefits. 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 and then mail it to the nearest Veterans Affairs (VA) office; They are located throughout the country.
– If you are within the United States, you can call the VA office at 800-827-1000 to submit a request by phone. Veterans located outside the United States should call 412-395-6272.
Additional assistance
It is also possible to receive help completing and submitting the documentation. A disability attorney can help you complete your claim, or you can visit a VA organization or service office for help from their representatives.
Complete the paperwork
The application requires information on the medical conditions that require compensation. When completing these forms, include specific information about diagnosed conditions, injuries, and illnesses. If possible, add specific details, such as the date you started experiencing symptoms and the specific medical diagnoses you received from your doctors. Submit copies of your medical records that verify and corroborate 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 for you.
The process
When you receive confirmation of your disability or illness, request compensation immediately. Advance application keeps this date as the effective date of benefits, which may affect the amount of benefits you receive. Don’t let the lack of medical documentation about your disability keep you from completing the process; you can submit the verification documentation later, if necessary.
Timeline
The approval process for disability benefits for veterans 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 can expedite approval by submitting complete medical records with the initial application. This can effectively speed up the review time and allow the government to return a decision more quickly.
Special status
Some people are eligible for a special fast track status. Former prisoners of war, as well as those who have suffered sexual trauma in relation to the military 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 can also receive priority service.
If you are unsure how to proceed with an application for Veterans Disability benefits, seek professional assistance in order to file your claim in a timely manner.