Veterans Disability Claims Lawyer
Veterans who suffer from service-connected injuries or illnesses are entitled to disability benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. These benefits exist to compensate veterans for physical and mental conditions caused or worsened by military service. Unfortunately, the VA disability claims system is complex, slow, and frequently frustrating. Many valid claims are delayed, underrated, or denied outright.
Nationwide Disability Law helps veterans across the United States understand and pursue Veterans Disability claims. Whether you are filing an initial claim, appealing a denial, or seeking a higher disability rating, experienced legal guidance can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
What Are Veterans Disability Benefits?
Veterans Disability benefits are monthly, tax-free payments provided to veterans who have disabilities connected to their military service. Benefits are based on a disability rating assigned by the VA, expressed as a percentage from 0 percent to 100 percent.
The higher the rating, the greater the monthly compensation and access to additional benefits, including healthcare, vocational assistance, and survivor benefits for family members.
Service-Connected Disabilities Explained
To qualify for VA disability benefits, a veteran must establish that a condition is service-connected. This means the condition was caused by, aggravated by, or began during military service.
Service connection can be established through direct service connection, secondary service connection, or aggravation of a pre-existing condition. Medical evidence, service records, and nexus opinions are often required.
Common Conditions in Veterans Disability Claims
Veterans disability claims commonly involve musculoskeletal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, hearing loss, tinnitus, respiratory conditions, and mental health disorders such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Exposure-related illnesses, including those linked to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances, are increasingly common bases for VA disability claims.
How the VA Assigns Disability Ratings
The VA assigns disability ratings based on the severity of a condition and how it impacts earning capacity. Ratings are assigned in 10 percent increments and may be combined for veterans with multiple conditions.
Incorrect ratings are common and often result in veterans receiving less compensation than they are entitled to under the law.
Filing an Initial Veterans Disability Claim
Filing an initial VA disability claim requires submitting medical evidence, service records, and detailed descriptions of symptoms and limitations. Errors or incomplete submissions can lead to delays or denials.
Nationwide Disability Law helps veterans prepare claims carefully to ensure the strongest possible presentation from the outset.
VA Disability Claim Denials and Low Ratings
Many veterans receive claim denials or ratings that do not accurately reflect the severity of their condition. These outcomes are often the result of insufficient medical evidence, inadequate nexus opinions, or VA errors.
A denial or low rating does not mean the claim is over. Veterans have the right to appeal unfavorable decisions.
The Veterans Disability Appeals Process
The VA appeals process offers multiple review options, including supplemental claims, higher-level reviews, and appeals to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. Each option has specific requirements and deadlines.
Choosing the correct appeal path and submitting appropriate evidence is critical to success.
Medical Evidence in Veterans Disability Claims
Medical evidence plays a central role in VA disability claims. This includes VA medical records, private treatment records, diagnostic testing, and expert medical opinions.
Nexus letters from qualified medical professionals are often key to establishing service connection and obtaining higher ratings.
Secondary and Aggravated Conditions
Veterans may qualify for benefits for conditions that develop as a result of a service-connected disability. For example, joint injuries may lead to chronic pain, depression, or mobility issues.
Secondary service connection claims are commonly overlooked but can significantly increase overall compensation.
Veterans Disability and Individual Unemployability
Veterans who cannot maintain substantially gainful employment due to service-connected disabilities may qualify for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability. TDIU allows veterans to receive compensation at the 100 percent rate even if their combined rating is lower.
TDIU claims require detailed evidence of employment limitations and medical impairment.
The Role of a Veterans Disability Claims Lawyer
A Veterans Disability claims lawyer helps identify overlooked benefits, challenge incorrect ratings, gather supporting evidence, and navigate the appeals process.
Nationwide Disability Law assists veterans nationwide with VA disability claims and appeals, ensuring that cases are prepared accurately and aggressively pursued.
Coordinating Veterans Disability and Social Security Disability
Some veterans qualify for both VA disability benefits and Social Security Disability benefits. While these programs operate independently, coordination can strengthen overall claims and financial stability.
Nationwide Disability Law helps veterans understand how these systems interact and how to pursue both when appropriate.
Nationwide Disability Law and Veterans Disability Representation
Nationwide Disability Law represents veterans across the United States in disability claims and appeals. We understand the unique challenges veterans face and the importance of securing accurate ratings and timely benefits.
We handle Veterans Disability cases on a contingency fee basis where permitted, meaning you pay no legal fees unless benefits are recovered.
Frequently Asked Questions About Veterans Disability Claims
Do I need to be injured in combat to qualify?
No. Service connection can be established for non-combat injuries and illnesses related to military service.
Can I file a claim years after leaving the military?
Yes. There is no statute of limitations on VA disability claims.
What if the VA denies my claim?
You have the right to appeal through multiple review options.
Can I receive benefits for mental health conditions?
Yes. PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions may qualify.
How long does the VA claims process take?
Timelines vary, but claims and appeals often take several months or longer.
Can I increase my disability rating?
Yes. Veterans may seek increased ratings if conditions worsen or were underrated.
What is a nexus letter?
A nexus letter is a medical opinion linking a condition to military service.
Can I work while receiving VA disability benefits?
Yes. Most VA benefits do not prohibit employment, except in TDIU cases.
Does a VA rating affect Social Security Disability?
No. VA and Social Security decisions are independent, though evidence may overlap.
Can Nationwide Disability Law represent veterans nationwide?
Yes. We represent veterans in disability claims across the United States.
Serving Throughout The USA
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Get Help With Your Veterans Disability Claim
Veterans Disability benefits are earned through service and sacrifice. When the VA denies, delays, or underrates a claim, legal guidance can help correct those errors and secure the compensation you deserve.
If you are filing a Veterans Disability claim or appealing a VA decision, contact Nationwide Disability Law today for a free consultation with an experienced Veterans Disability claims lawyer. We proudly help veterans nationwide pursue the benefits they have earned.
