The Ultimate VA Disability Guide: Start Day One of Bootcamp
- Zhada Ray
- Sep 7, 2024
- 15 min read
Updated: Oct 3, 2024
Everyone knows about the GI Bill, but how many of us were taught about claiming your VA Disability rating? In this post, I'm going to brief you on everything that you need to know and everything that you don't feel like knowing. Why? Because the government benefited from you. You deserve the benefits it has promised.
In this article, I collected and organized information from the VA website, eCFR, and a few others. I do not claim to be an expert on this topic. I do not work for the VA. If you would like information beyond this article, I encourage you to reach out to the VA or your nearest VSO. I created this to help you and other veterans. So, please feel free to share, but always remember my top piece of advice: gather your evidence.
Why should you care about your VA Disability Rating?
Besides extra funding in your pocket, you will get healthcare for that Service-Connected Disability (SCD) for the rest of your life. If something develops later on from the condition, you will still get help. Ok, yes, that usually does not motivate people. Let's crunch some numbers.
Some common Service-Connected Disability Claims in 2023: (VA Reports)
Service Connected Disability (SCD) | Rating |
|---|---|
Tinnitus | 10% |
Limitation of Flexion of the Knee | 10 - 30% (depending on the severity) |
Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve | 10 - 80% (depending on the severity) |
PTSD | 0%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100% (depending on the severity) |
Learn more at VetsGuardian.com
Convinced? Keep reading on...
Your Detailed Guide to VA Disabilities
Disclaimer: Although this guide is quite detailed, it is NOT all-inclusive. Please search online and contact the VA or your VSO for further information. Check the VA website or your Veterans Service Officer (VSO) for the most up-to-date information.
I aim to offer valuable guidance and resources to help veterans around the world. If you find it useful, feel free to comment or share it with others. Please note that I do not work for the VA, nor am I a recruiter. I am simply a U.S. Military Veteran who loves researching, sharing information, and uplifting the community.
The information provided here was gathered online. If you have additional questions, I encourage you to contact your local Veterans Service Officer. To find one near you, click here. As always, please refer to the VA website for the most up-to-date information.
What is VA Disability? What is the overview?
VA Disability refers to the benefits provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to veterans who have incurred or aggravated injuries or illnesses during their military service, referred to as a Service-Connected Disability (SCD). The goal is to offer medical treatment and financial compensation to support those whose service-related conditions affect their ability to work or perform daily activities.
Am I eligible for VA Disability? How do I qualify?
Regardless of military branch or component (Active Duty, Guard, and Reserves) veterans who meet the below criteria are eligible to apply. These criteria are directly from the VA website:
"You may be eligible for VA disability benefits or compensation if you meet both of these requirements.
Both of these must be true:
You have a current illness or injury (known as a condition) that affects your mind or body, and
You served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training
And at least one of these must be true:
You got sick or injured while serving in the military—and can link this condition to your illness or injury (called an in-service disability claim), or
You had an illness or injury before you joined the military—and serving made it worse (called a pre-service disability claim), or
You have a disability related to your active-duty service that didn’t appear until after you ended your service (called a post-service disability claim)
Presumptive conditions
For some conditions, we automatically assume (or “presume”) that your service caused your condition. We call these presumptive conditions.
If you have a presumptive condition, you don’t need to prove that your service caused the condition. You only need to meet the service requirements for the presumption.
Find out more about these categories of presumptive conditions:
A chronic (long-lasting) illness that appears within 1 year after discharge
An illness caused by contact with contaminants (toxic chemicals) or other hazardous materials
An illness caused by your time spent as a prisoner of war (POW)"
*If your discharge was other than honorable, you may be eligible. Please read more information here from the VA website:
"There are 2 ways you can try to qualify:
Remember, to qualify, the injury or illness must have occurred during a time period when you were on orders.
How do I determine if I was on orders?
For Active Duty personnel, the situation is straightforward: you are on orders 24/7, from enlistment through separation or retirement. However, for Guard and Reserve members, it’s essential to confirm if the service-related condition occurred during a period when you were on orders. The primary criterion for eligibility is whether your condition is linked to your active duty service.
Active duty includes:
Federal or state active duty (such as Title 10, Title 32, SAD, MedCon, deployments, or active duty for operational support).
Training periods, including active duty for training (ADT) or inactive duty for training (IDT), like weekend drills or annual training.
If you sustained an injury or developed a condition during these active duty periods, you may be eligible for VA disability compensation. However, it’s important to note that injuries occurring during drills or training only qualify if they happened during federally activated service or were a direct result of those training periods.
More information for Guardsmen and Reservists
For more information for those who have served/ are serving in the Guard and Reserves, please click here.
I was exposed to Agent Orange, asbestos, burning pits, etc. What can I do?
If you were exposed to toxic chemicals, you don’t need to prove that your service caused the condition. You only need to meet the service requirements for the presumption.
Read this page on the VA website for further information regarding exposure to toxic chemicals while serving in the U.S. Military. Learn if you were exposed to anything on this list: Exposure to Hazardous Materials
For instance, if you were diagnosed with bladder or prostate cancer as a result of Agent Orange exposure and are still undergoing treatment, the eCFR states that your disability rating should be 100%:
Read: eCFR - VA guidelines regarding conditions that fall underneath presumptive conditions
Video: What is Agent Orange?
Video: Receiving VA Disability Compensation due to Agent Orange
Video: What do I need to know about burning pits?
What are the VA Disability benefits?
Eligible veterans can access a wide range of benefits, including monthly compensation, healthcare services, vocational rehabilitation, and educational assistance. These resources are designed to support veterans in maintaining their health, achieving professional goals, and pursuing further education. The goal is to support veterans whose service-related conditions affect their ability to work or perform daily activities.
PLEASE READ: The most up-to-date VA Disability Benefits Matrix directly from the VA
The chart below provides a helpful snapshot of these benefits. However, since it was posted in a military group in 2020, it’s possible that some details may have changed slightly. It’s always a good idea to verify current information with the VA to ensure you're receiving the most up-to-date benefits. Please read the most up-to-date information here.
Can you tell me more about the monthly compensation?
The goal is to offer medical treatment and financial compensation to support those whose service-related conditions affect their ability to work or perform daily activities. As a result, the amount of financial compensation you receive depends on your rating/ severity of the disability and the number of dependents. If qualified, you will receive a direct deposit once a month from the VA into your provided bank account.
If approved, when does the VA deposit the monthly financial compensation?
"Disability benefit payments for a particular month are paid on the first business day of the following month. When the first day of that month falls on a non-business day or a holiday, VA benefits will be paid on the last business day of the preceding month."
How much would I receive?
Due to the annual changes in compensation, view this link for current rates: VA Disability Compensation.
Sounds good. Which conditions qualify for a VA Disability?
Any condition, injury, or illness that was caused or worsened by your military service may be eligible for VA disability compensation. Common conditions for Guard and Reserve veterans include:
Musculoskeletal injuries (such as knee, back, or shoulder injuries).
Hearing loss or tinnitus (often from exposure to loud noises during drills or training).
Mental health conditions, including PTSD, anxiety, or depression related to your service.
Respiratory issues or illnesses from exposure to hazardous substances during active duty.
From the VA website, here are common conditions across the board:
"You may be able to get VA disability benefits for conditions like these:
Chronic (long-lasting) back pain resulting in a currently diagnosed back disability
Breathing problems resulting from a current lung condition or lung disease
Severe hearing loss
Scar tissue
Loss of range of motion (problems moving your body)
Ulcers
Cancers or other conditions caused by contact with toxic chemicals or other dangers
You may also be able to get VA disability benefits for conditions like these:
Anxiety
Depression
Mental or physical health conditions related to military sexual trauma (MST)
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Traumatic brain injury (TBI)"
I don't have any of those. Does my condition qualify?
Review the eCFR for more information about qualifying conditions and their associated ratings: View the eCFR here
Each condition will need to be documented and connected to your time in service. This is where gathering evidence, including medical records, service treatment records, and buddy statements, becomes critical.
Presumptive Conditions: Certain conditions are automatically considered service-connected based on factors like exposure to specific hazards (e.g., Agent Orange, radiation). Veterans with these conditions do not need to provide extensive evidence.
Find out more from the VA website about these categories of presumptive conditions:
What is the eCFR (VA guide) and why should I read it before filing?
The eCFR (Electronic Code of Federal Regulations) is a crucial resource for VA Disability claims. Here’s why you should check it out:
Current Information: Provides the latest version of federal regulations.
Regulatory Details: Clarifies eligibility requirements and procedures.
Accuracy: Ensures you follow the most up-to-date rules, reducing errors.
Understanding: Helps you navigate complex regulatory language related to your claim.
Insights: Offers valuable insights into the claims process and requirements.
Using the eCFR can make your VA Disability claim process smoother and more informed. Understand which conditions you can claim to receive a rating.
Review the eCFR at this link.
What is a Disability Rating?
The VA assigns a disability rating, from 0% to 100%, based on the severity of the condition. This rating affects the benefits and the amount of compensation a veteran receives.
Visit the VA website to learn more details about the VA Disability Rating: About Disability Ratings
To read more about the guidelines ratings for various conditions, refer the eCFR at this link.
How do I calculate my VA Disability Rating using the eCFR guide?
The VA does not add 10% + 10% = 20%. VA math is... different. View this link to learn more directly from the source: Calculating VA Ratings
Why does the VA calculate ratings so oddly?
From the VA website:
"The VA uses a method called the “whole person theory” to determine what we call your combined disability rating. We do this to make sure that your total VA disability rating doesn’t add up to more than 100%. That’s because a person can’t be more than 100% able-bodied."
The VA provides a calculator on their website: About VA Ratings
Additional information regarding mental conditions
I found this visual to be helpful for those trying to understand the ratings for mental disorders (veteranslaw.com):
How do I get a 100% VA Disability Rating?
A 100% disability rating entitles veterans to the highest VA compensation rates, excluding special monthly compensation. This rating is reserved for veterans with severe, service-connected conditions that typically prevent them from working or caring for themselves. Veterans can qualify through a single 100% disability, a combined rating of 100%, or Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU), which provides 100% compensation if they cannot maintain gainful employment due to service-connected conditions, even if their combined rating is less than 100%.
Please refer to the eCFR and the VA Ratings Calculator for more information.
What if I can't work?
Please read this VA webpage for information regarding Individual Unemployability.
Here are some websites to read regarding getting 100% disability rating. By the way, law firms really like writing about getting 100% disability...
I read through the eCFR. I don't think I have anything to claim. Should I file?
Yes! Even if you're unsure whether you have a claim, it's worth filing. The VA will review your service records and medical history to determine if any conditions are connected to your service. You may also qualify for benefits you weren't aware of, so it's always a good idea to file.
Here are some benefits that you will qualify for at a 0 percent rating (directly from the VA webpage):
No cost health care and prescription drugs for service-connected disabilities
(if income limits are met)
Preparing to File a Claim -- Don't Skip this Step!
Document Everything
Keep a detailed record of any injuries, illnesses, or conditions you developed during your time in the Guard or Reserves. Ensure that you report any medical issues during your drills, training, or active duty service, and seek medical attention immediately.
Seek Professional Help
Consider working with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). VSOs can provide free assistance in filing your claim, gathering the necessary documentation, and guiding you through the process. They are familiar with the nuances of the VA system and can advocate on your behalf.
Appeal if Necessary
If you receive a low disability rating or your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. Many veterans are initially under-compensated or denied benefits, so don’t be discouraged if this happens. You can submit additional evidence and request a review of your claim.
How to find a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) near you?
Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) are invaluable resources for navigating veterans' benefits, offering assistance well beyond filing for VA disability. To find a VSO near you, visit the Lifeline for Veterans website or call 888-777-4443 for support.
Can I receive backpay for VA compensation?
Yes, you can receive backpay for VA compensation. Backpay is provided from the date of your initial claim or intent to file. If the VA made an error during reevaluation, you might also receive backpay to correct the mistake
Prompts to use in generative AI (ChatGPT, Perplexity, etc.) to help you prepare to file for VA Disability
I do have to note: Please do not makeup conditions. These are conditions diagnosed or recognized by a provider.
List the common service-connected conditions veterans can claim based on [my specific military branch], [job title], and [service era].
I received the following diagnoses while serving in the military. What are possible ways that it could impact my physical, mental, and social health as well as my ability to work? [insert diagnoses]
What documents do I need to file a VA disability claim for [specific condition]?
How do I explain the connection between my service-related injury and my current symptoms?
What are the typical errors veterans make when filing a VA disability claim, and how can I avoid them?
Provide a checklist for submitting a fully developed VA disability claim.
How do I get started filing for VA Disability?
Application Process: Veterans need to submit a claim to the VA either online, by mail or through a Veterans Service Officer (VSO), providing evidence such as medical records, service records/ orders, and personal statements to support their claim.
Once you’ve determined that your condition may be service-connected, the next step is to file a claim. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Gather Documentation
To file a successful claim, you’ll need to provide evidence that supports your case. This can include:
Medical records that detail your condition.
Service treatment records (STR) from your time on active duty or training.
Buddy statements from fellow service members who can corroborate the events or conditions that led to your disability.
Nexus letter from a medical provider that connects your condition to your service.
Submit a Claim
A claim is ___
Initial Claims: For veterans filing for benefits for the first time.
Increased Claims: For veterans seeking a higher rating for an already established service-connected disability.
Secondary Claims: For conditions that are a result of or related to a service-connected disability.
You can file your claim online through the VA’s eBenefits portal, or you can submit it via mail or in person at a VA office. Be sure to fill out VA Form 21-526EZ for disability compensation. Make sure to attach all your evidence when submitting the claim.
Attend a Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exam
Once your claim is submitted, the VA may schedule a C&P exam to evaluate the severity of your condition and confirm the service connection. This exam is crucial in determining your disability rating, which will impact how much compensation you receive. Prepare your evidence for this appointment.
Receive a Rating Decision
After reviewing your claim, the VA will assign you a disability rating from 0% to 100% based on the severity of your condition. Even if you receive a 0% rating, which means no compensation, you may still be eligible for VA healthcare and other benefits.
What is the C&P Exam?
If the VA would like further investigation into the condition, they may request a C&P exam.
The C&P exam, or Compensation and Pension exam, is a medical evaluation performed by a VA medical provider (MD, DO, NP) or contracted provider to determine the severity of your condition and how it relates to your military service. It plays a critical role in assigning your VA disability rating.
You will meet with a provider (in person) and they may assess you based on your condition. The exam starts as soon as you walk through the door. See the following videos for more information. Of course, there is a lot of information out there and more videos to watch:
How to Pass C&P Exam - VA Disability Guy
Ten C&P Exam Questions - Combat Craig
Seven Things to Bring with You to Your C&P Exam - Hill and Ponton, PA
Where will I have the C&P Exam (if it was requested)?
The C&P exam can take place at a VA medical center, a VA-contracted facility, or a private medical office depending on the VA’s arrangements for your exam. You will receive a phone call ahead of time to schedule.
Prepare for your C&P Exam
Overall, I highly encourage you to write a summary of your condition, how it impacts your life now, the symptoms, the history of the condition, and why you believe it qualifies for a VA disability. Here are some additional tips:
Review your medical history and symptoms. Be honest and thorough.
Write down details about your condition’s impact on your life.
Bring any relevant medical documentation.
Know your medical history related to your service
Dress comfortably and make sure to arrive early for your appointment.
Be truthful and provide a detailed explanation of your symptoms.
Don't minimize your symptoms; explain how they impact your daily life.
How long does the process take?
The process depends on various factors. According to the VA website, the time it takes to review your claim depends on these factors:
The type of claim you filed
How many injuries or disabilities you claimed and how complex they are
How long it takes us to collect the evidence we need to decide your claim
You can always check your claim status by logging in:
You can check the current average time of completion on this VA webpage.
How will I be notified that I received a rating?
After the VA has decided on a rating, you will receive a letter in the mail. (Please make sure that your address is up-to-date.) You can also check your status online.
Where can I check my VA Disability status?
Check your VA claim, decision review, or appeal status by logging into the VA website.
I was denied! How do I appeal?
If your VA disability claim was denied, read this FIRST: VA Webpage - Disagree with Decision
If applicable, you can appeal by submitting a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) / VA Form 10182 within one year of the decision. This will start the appeals process, allowing you to provide additional evidence or clarify your case. It might be helpful to seek assistance from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) to guide you through the process.
Download a VA Form 10182 at this link.
Use your resources: It’s often useful to consult with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or claims representative to help present your situation effectively. Read this to locate a VSO near you.
The VA decreased my VA Disability rating. What can I do?
If you disagree with your reduced VA disability rating, review your condition in the eCFR FIRST: Link to eCFR
Then, review the VA Website: VA Webpage - Disagree with Decision
Use your resources: It’s often useful to consult with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or claims representative to help present your situation effectively. Read this to locate a VSO near you.
The VA made an error and decreased my rating, but they're fixing it. Can I receive back pay?
Yes, you may be entitled to back pay if the VA’s mistake led to a lower rating. Once the error is corrected and your rating is adjusted, the VA generally provides retroactive compensation to cover the period when the incorrect rating was applied.
Final Thoughts
As a Veteran or soon-to-be Veteran, understanding your eligibility for VA disability benefits can open up a world of resources to help manage service-connected conditions and improve your quality of life. Yes, the process can be complex. However, taking the time to gather the necessary evidence, seek help from professionals, and stay persistent can result in receiving the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve served and sustained injuries or illnesses connected to your service, don’t hesitate to explore your options. The VA disability system exists to support veterans, including those who served in the National Guard and Reserves, so make sure you’re getting the benefits you’ve earned.
Feel free to comment below if you found this information helpful, and don’t hesitate to share it with others. Together, we can spread awareness, support fellow veterans, and ensure everyone gets the benefits they deserve.
As always,
Good luck out there!
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