If you have served honorably in the United States military, you and your family members are entitled to a wide range of benefits. Usually, the process of obtaining these benefits is straightforward. But sometimes, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may deny your benefits for a variety of reasons. In these cases, the VA benefits lawyers of Jackson & MacNichol who handle cases nationwide are prepared to fight on your behalf. If you have been denied access to your veterans disability benefits, call us today at 800-524-3339 for a free consultation.
Learn What Kinds of Benefits Could Be Available to You
You owe it to yourself and to your family to learn as much as you can about the benefits that may be available to you. Many deserving veterans neglect to apply for benefits that could greatly enhance their financial situation–not to mention their health. There are many VA programs that you could potentially benefit from. The most common include:
- Disability compensation–If you have a medical condition that was caused or made worse by your military service, it is likely that you are eligible for veterans disability compensation. Depending on how much the condition affects your ability to function, you could be entitled to monthly, tax-free payment ranging from $133 to over $3,400. If you have dependents or have lost limbs, you may even be entitled to additional compensation.
- Veterans pensions–If you are over the age of 65, or are permanently and totally disabled, you may be in a position to obtain a monthly pension. Your eligibility depends on your annual income, which must be below certain thresholds corresponding to different family situations. Additionally, you normally must show that you had at least 90 days of active service, with at least one day of wartime service.
- Healthcare benefits–Depending on your monthly income, the VA may required to provide free or reduced-cost medical treatment needed to promote, preserve or restore your health. In addition to covering treatment, consultations, procedures, and medical supplies for your general healthcare needs, the VA may provide additional assistance for many specific medical conditions including blindness, HIV/AIDS, and traumatic brain injuries.
- Education Programs–You’ve probably heard of the GI Bill, which actually encompasses several education and vocational benefits for active duty military members, and even certain members of the reserves. You could get funding to put towards college tuition, vocational training, standardized test tutoring, and even flight instruction. No matter what your interests are, it is likely that there is a GI Bill program for you.
There are many other benefits programs not listed here that might apply to your situation. Whether you want to take out a loan to buy a house, or are considering opening your own business, there could be a veterans benefit program for you.
Your Benefits Eligibility Typically Depends on Your Discharge Status
You may have heard that you need an honorable discharge to get veterans benefits, but even if you obtained a general or a less than honorable discharge, it may still be possible for you to access some benefits. Some benefits, such as the GI Bill or home loan assistance, require an honorable discharge. But you may access your disability compensation or veterans pension as long as you have an honorable, under honorable conditions, or general discharge.
If you have been denied access to your veterans disability compensation benefits, a lawyer can assist you. The veterans benefits lawyers of Jackson & MacNichol can review your case nationwide, collect additional evidence, and convince the VA that you are deserving of benefits. In some cases, we may also be in a position to help you to have your discharge status changed. Don’t give up on your benefits, call us today at 800-524-3339 for help.