FAQs Regarding Veterans Benefits & Eligibility
When applying for Veteran’s Benefits, it is important to educate yourself to the fullest extent possible. In other words, having knowledge about the law and the associated process of qualifying for benefits can have a significant impact in your case. While an experienced Kansas City VA benefits attorney can guide you through the process, being well-informed often means the difference between getting benefits or not. Accordingly, I have put together a list of the most common FAQs regarding VA benefits in order to help you maximize your chances of getting the benefits you deserve. They are as follows:
- 1. What is veteran’s disability compensation and am I eligible?
You may be eligible for VA benefits in the event that you were injured, stricken with an illness or wounded during active combat while serving in the military. Keep in mind that pre-existing conditions or diseases which were worsened by active military service may also be covered. Although the majority of service-connected disabilities appear during or right after one’s military service, there are others that do not manifest themselves for years to come. It is important to speak with an experience VA benefits attorney to help analyze your case and determine whether you may qualify for benefits in this regard.
- 2. How is disability compensation determined?
The ultimate amount of disability benefits awarded hinges upon the severity of your disability. When applying for benefits, it is important to provide comprehensive medical records so that the VA and determine an appropriate amount of compensation. Oftentimes, a veteran must submit to a medical examination conducted by a VA doctor in order to complete the review process. The VA rates your disability and expresses it as a percentage. The payment you receive is based upon this percentage. Having dependents can increase this amount under certain circumstances.
- 3. What is the VA’s pension benefit and how do I qualify?
A monthly monetary amount may be available to veterans who served during a war who are facing limited income and permanent disability. The disability does not necessarily have to be connected to military service but it cannot result from any intentional or wrongful conduct.
- 4. How is a monthly pension amount determined by the VA?
Pensions are based upon need. In order to qualify, you must be considered financially needy based upon your income, savings, number of dependents, and the property you own. If you receive any SSDI benefits, your pension amount may be reduced. However, your benefits may be increased in the event that you require long term care or are permanently housebound.
- 5. What do I have to do to apply for VA benefits?
If you are a veteran, you may be able to obtain assistance from a VA service officer in order to start the application process. Keep in mind that veterans and their dependents may file for benefits. You can call the VA at their toll free number, which is 1-800-827-1000. You can also speak with a qualified Kansas City VA benefits attorney to help you with the application process, especially if you think you may have difficult proving eligibility.
Call Us to Find out How We can Help You Get the VA Benefits You Deserve
Ms. Sanger has helped numerous veterans during the benefit application process and has also represented them in appealing a denial or rating decision. The Sanger Law Office is ideally located in Lawrence, KS and represents veterans who have been denied disability benefits both in Kansas and Missouri. If you are having challenges obtaining VA disability benefits or have any questions, contact attorney Danielle Sanger today for an initial free consultation at 785-979-4353.