The Department of Veterans Affairs operates several programs that provide financial, medical, and other forms of assistance to veterans. At the federal level, there are four major benefit programs:
Pension programsMany other types of veterans’ benefits are available as well, including special benefits regarding home financing, job training, PTSD support, small business loans, counseling, life insurance, and burial and memorial services. Benefits for survivors are also often available.
When most people mention veterans’ benefits, they are usually talking about disability compensation programs. However, applications for several programs are required.
Veterans’ Disability Benefits
There are several options to submit your application to the VA to obtain disability benefits. Perhaps the easiest and fastest method is the by using the VA’s online program, eBenefits. From there, you can upload all of your supporting documentation and fill out your application form. As long as you complete the form within one year, the date that you started the online application is considered your date of claim. Using this method is usually faster because it cuts down on processing times behind the scenes.
Veterans can also visit their regional office to work with trained staff to fill out their application and gather necessary forms. You should bring supporting documentation with you when you visit, but you can often obtain this information and bring it back to complete your application at a later time. The staff at the VA can also help you request records from particular people or companies, but that procedure often increases the processing time.
Veterans can also apply by mail as well. You should indicate which records you would like the VA to request on your behalf, if any, in your application materials. This is perhaps the slowest method to apply for benefits, but it is an option as well.
Any veteran who has been discharged from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions will usually qualify for veterans’ benefits. However, your disability must meet certain requirements to be eligible for veterans’ disability benefits. The disability must have occurred as a result of active duty, or the disability was aggravated or made worse because of your service.
Evidence Required for Your Application
You will need certain information to complete your application. You should provide your separation or discharge papers (DD214), service treatment records (if they are available to you), and any medical evidence to indicate your condition. Medical evidence is often in the form of doctor and hospital reports.
Working with someone who has completed the veterans’ benefits application process before can be an invaluable asset to you. You can collaborate with an attorney from our office, and he or she will help you gather the information you need to present your best case. Sometimes outside representatives or agents are also available as well.
The benefits claims and appeals process for veterans’ benefits can be complex. It is important to have someone on your side who knows the ropes and who can go to bat for you. Contact our team for more information.