VA DISABILITY CLAIM INFORMATION
There are a number of different types of VA disability claims of which you should be aware before requesting compensation. Each type of claim has its own eligibility requirements, so be sure to speak with an agent or attorney to help you review your case and determine the right VA disability claim for your case. You can file for VA disability online or by visiting the VA office location near you.
Direct Service Connected Disabilities
Injuries that are considered to be connected to the veteran’s service are eligible for disability compensation. If it can be proven that an injury or illness was sustained, or even aggravated, during a veteran’s active military service, then the veteran can rightfully pursue disability compensation.
Secondary Service Connected Disabilities
If the original illness or injury that qualified you for disability compensation is also the cause of another medical condition, then you could be eligible for additional compensation. Secondary service connected disabilities can also include pre-existing medical conditions that were exacerbated during military service.
Presumptive Service Connected Disabilities
The law has established certain medical conditions as “presumptively service connected.” Claims of this nature can only be submitted by veterans who have served at least 90 days and who can support their claim with medical evidence. In addition, the law states that the condition must appear to a specified degree within a presumptive time period. The time allotted will depend on the medical condition at hand.
Special Circumstances
Additional compensation may be awarded due to special circumstances. For example, a veteran could request temporary 100% disability while they recover after a surgery related to their service-connected injury, or they could request special monthly compensation for a catastrophic injury or disease that requires constant or ongoing medical aid.