Did you know that the current military population (as of September 2023) includes 2,079,142 military personnel and 778,539 civilians? And per the Veteran’s Administration, over 10 million eligible veterans have never applied for their VA Disability benefits. There are many veterans unsure if they even qualify.
Disability benefits are not only for those involved in combat operations. Any veteran that served in active-duty military may be eligible (except for those who were dishonorably discharged). This also includes National Guard or Reservist that were activated or mobilized.
Do you have a condition or illness that affects your mind or body? It may be linked to your service in the military. Some conditions may not be obvious upon your discharge but may crop up years later. These can include potential exposures to asbestos, lead, chemicals, radiation, contaminated water, and fuel. In the fall of 2023, VA’s Health Outcomes Military Exposures (HOME) created a new division called (SMEE) Surveillance Military Environmental Exposures. Currently SMEE is reviewing the possible relationship between acute leukemias, chronic leukemias, and multiple myeloma and exposure to fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) from airborne hazards and open burn pits for service members who were deployed in the Southwest Asia theater of operations, Somalia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Djibouti, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Uzbekistan. This is to say, the military is aware of the toxins that our service members are encountering.
The claims process for veterans’ benefits can be long and intimidating. Unfortunately, lack of personnel to process claims leads to negative experiences which can cause those who need help to give up. It’s also important to pay attention to deadlines as disability claims are time sensitive.
Fortunately, as a retired service member of the United States military there are a number of ways to apply for VA benefits. Confused as to whether you are eligible for VA disability benefits? Here is one place that can help. At VeteransGuide.org you will find veterans helping veterans who are attempting to access government resources. In addition to resources for veteran disabilities, VeteransGuide.org offers links to vetted legal professionals and law firms, along with self-paced learning materials. You will have access to a VA Disability Calculator, guides on how to apply for Veterans disability, guides and help with the appeals process, information on veterans’ benefits such as discounts and VA home loans, and in-depth information on toxic exposures.
From the military’s inception during the American Revolutionary War, our US Veterans have played a decisive role in our country’s history. As a member of the armed forces of the United States, you have earned the right to your benefits which may include disability compensation, pension, home loan guaranty, education, health care, insurance, vocational rehabilitation and employment, and burial. Check for your benefits today!
Comments