The Ultimate VA Disability Guide: Start Day One of Bootcamp
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?
How do I determine if I was on orders?
More information for Guardsmen and Reservists
I was exposed to Agent Orange, asbestos, burning pits, etc. What can I do?
What are the VA Disability benefits?
Can you tell me more about the monthly 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?
What is a Disability Rating?
How do I calculate my VA Disability Rating using the eCFR guide?
Additional information regarding mental conditions
How do I get a 100% VA Disability Rating?
I read through the eCFR. I don't think I have anything to claim. Should I file?
Preparing to File a Claim -- Don't Skip this Step!
How to find a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) near you?
Can I receive backpay for VA compensation?
Prompts to use in generative AI (ChatGPT, Perplexity, etc.) to help you prepare to file for VA Disability
How do I get started filing for VA Disability?
What is the C&P Exam?
Where will I have the C&P Exam (if it was requested)?
Prepare for your C&P Exam
How long does the process take?
How will I be notified that I received a rating?
Where can I check my VA Disability status?
I was denied! How do I appeal?
The VA decreased my VA Disability rating. What can I do?
The VA made an error and decreased my rating, but they're fixing it. Can I receive back pay?
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!
Comments