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.
How to Submit a Fast-Track Veterans Disability Compensation Claim
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
The VA has specific rules for which heart and cardiovascular conditions will be awarded disability compensation and how they will be rated.
Getting Veterans Disability Compensation for PTSD
Veterans disability compensation is available to veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of military service.
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.
Getting a VA Character of Service Determination
If you are a veteran with bad paper, consider asking for a Character of Service Determination rather than a discharge upgrade or record correction.
Getting Veterans Disability Compensation for PTSD
Veterans disability compensation is available to veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of military service.
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.
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.
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 are eligible for disability compensation in addition to their military retirement pay.
VA Reexaminations and Reductions of Veterans Disability Benefits
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may reduce or terminate your disability benefits under certain circumstances.
When Can the VA Terminate or Lower My Disability Benefits?
Some veterans have what are called Protected Benefit Rates.
How Divorce, Alimony, and Child Support Affect Veterans' 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.
Using the VA's Decision Review Officer (DRO) Hearing Process
If you are denied veterans disability compensation, you can ask to have a Decision Review Officer (DRO) hearing.
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.