Many Americans are eligible for benefits based on their military service. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates a number of programs providing financial, medical, and other assistance to veterans. Three major benefit programs are of particular value to those who have illnesses or injuries: disability compensation, veterans pension, and, perhaps most significant, free or low-cost medical care through VA hospitals and medical facilities. Eligibility for some of these benefits depends on financial need or time of service.
Overview of All VA Benefits for Disabled Veterans
Many benefits are available to veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
VA Pension for Retired Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides supplemental income for low-income wartime veterans in the form of Pension, Housebound, and Aid and Attendance benefits.
Veterans Service-Connected Disability Compensation
To get veterans disability compensation benefits, you must be able to prove your medical condition was caused by or worsened by your service.
Fast Track VA Disability With the Fully Developed Claims Program and QuickSubmit
If you are willing to do some legwork, you can submit a Fully Developed Claim and get a faster answer on veterans disability compensation.
VA Disability Compensation or Military Retirement Benefits: Which One to Choose?
The answer depends on how long you've been in service, your disability rating, and whether you can restore your VA offset.
Getting Veterans Disability Compensation for Depression
Veterans struggling with depression may be able to get a VA disability rating based on how severe the symptoms are.
Getting Veterans Disability Compensation for Heart or Cardiovascular Problems
Veterans with service-connected heart and cardiovascular conditions may be able to get a VA disability rating.
Veterans Disability Compensation for PTSD
If you have PTSD that was caused or got worse by your time in service, you can get a VA disability rating.
How to Get a Military Discharge Upgrade
Some veterans want their discharge changed even if they remain eligible for many VA benefits, because they feel it dishonors the service they provided to their country.
VA Character of Service Determination
Veterans with bad paper should consider asking for a character of service determination instead of a discharge upgrade or record correction.
Veterans Disability Compensation for PTSD
If you have PTSD that was caused or got worse by your time in service, you can get a VA disability rating.
Getting a Private Medical Opinion for Your VA PTSD Claim
Having an independent medical opinion from a non-VA doctor can help your PTSD claim for VA disability benefits.
VA Benefits for Spouses of Totally Disabled Veterans
Health care and educational benefits are available to spouses and children of veterans who are totally and permanently disabled.
Survivor Benefits for Spouses and Children of Deceased Veterans and Service Members
There are certain cash benefits that are available to survivors of deceased active duty members and deceased veterans.
Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments (CRDP) for Disabled Veterans
Military retirees with service-connected disabilities may be eligible for disability compensation in addition to their military retirement pay.
VA Reexaminations and Reevaluations of Veterans Disability Benefits
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may reduce or terminate your disability benefits under certain circumstances.
When the VA Can Lower or Take Away Your Disability Benefits
Some veterans have what are called Protected Benefit Rates.
How Divorce and Child Support Can Affect Your VA Benefits
Many disabled veterans become concerned about how much of their VA income they may lose during and after a divorce, due to property division, alimony, and child support.
How to Appeal if the VA Denies You Disability Benefits
If you applied for veterans disability compensation benefits and the VA sent you a letter denying you benefits, you have the right to appeal the decision.
Veterans Eligibility for VA Nursing Home Care
The VA may pay all or part of the nursing home costs for disabled and elderly veterans.
CHAMPVA Benefits for Disabled Veterans' Spouses and Children
Health care and educational benefits are available to spouses and children of veterans who are totally and permanently disabled.