Navigating the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Disability claims process can be overwhelming. Even if you do everything right, you can receive an unfair decision.
So, is it worth getting an attorney for VA Disability? Yes, it’s worth it to hire a lawyer, especially if your claim gets denied or you receive a low rating.
A Disability denial can be extremely frustrating, but you don’t have to abandon your claim. A Veterans Affairs Disability benefits claims lawyer can help you file an appeal and secure the benefits you deserve.
Call or text (800) 562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
Is It Worth Getting an Attorney for VA Disability?
Yes, it’s worth it to hire a VA Disability attorney, particularly if your claim has been denied or your rating doesn’t reflect the severity of your condition. A lawyer can help strengthen your case and advocate for you throughout the claims process.
For appeals in particular, representation can make the difference between another denial and the benefits you deserve.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 562-9830
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a VA Disability Attorney?
The VA Disability attorneys at Marc Whitehead & Associates work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- You pay nothing upfront.
- You only pay your attorney if you win your appeal.
- Our fee will be a prearranged percentage of your past-due benefits.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer for a VA Disability Claim?
If your VA Disability claim has been denied or if you haven’t filed yet and want the best odds of having your benefits approved, a lawyer can:
- Collect evidence: An attorney can gather evidence that strengthens your claim.
- File an appeal: If the VA has denied your claim or given you a low rating, a lawyer can help submit an appeal.
- Argue for a higher rating: A lawyer can compare your symptoms to VA criteria and push for a fairer rating.
- Represent you: If your case goes before a Veterans Law Judge, an attorney can prepare you and present your case.
Do You Need a Lawyer to File for VA Disability?
No, you don’t need a lawyer to file an initial VA disability claim. However, if your claim has been denied, legal representation can be a game–changer.
Lawyers are particularly helpful during the appeals process, where the burden of proof is often higher. They know how to spot legal errors in VA decisions and can introduce new evidence or legal arguments that lead to a better outcome.
When Should I Get a VA Disability Lawyer?
You should call a VA disability lawyer if:
- Your initial claim has been denied.
- You received a disability rating that is too low.
- You have multiple service-related conditions.
- You’re filing a secondary claim or appeal.
- Your case involves complex medical or legal issues.
A VA disability lawyer can step in at any stage of the appeals process. The sooner you involve a lawyer after a denial, the better your chances of winning your appeal.
Is It Worth Appealing a VA Disability Claim?
In most cases, yes, it’s worth it to appeal a VA disability claim, especially when significant benefits or back pay are at stake. Here’s why:
- Increased compensation: Even a single percentage-point boost in your disability rating can mean hundreds of dollars more per month, as well as substantial back pay.
- Strong success rate: Appeals handled by attorneys often result in favorable outcomes.
- No upfront cost: Since VA disability appeals are handled on contingency, you won’t face any financial risk.
Appealing a denied or underrated decision can be a smart move.
What Are the Chances of Winning a VA Appeal With a Lawyer?
While every case is unique, veterans represented by lawyers tend to have higher success rates than those who go it alone. Not only do veterans with lawyers win appeals at a higher rate, but they also tend to obtain higher disability ratings.
How Long Does a VA Disability Appeal Take With a Lawyer?
Depending on the specifics of your case, a VA disability appeal can take anywhere from a few months to several years, even with a lawyer.
While an attorney can’t speed up the VA’s claims process, they can help prevent unnecessary delays by submitting a complete, well-supported claim from the outset. They can also monitor your case and communicate with the VA to prevent bottlenecks.
How Much Disability Do Veterans Get?
The VA’s Current Veterans Disability Compensation Rates are always changing. As a veteran, the amount you’ll receive each month will depend on several factors, including:
- Your disability rating (0%–100%)
- Whether you have dependents (spouse, children, or parents)
- The severity of your condition(s)
- Special circumstances (loss of limb, need for aid and attendance)
A successful appeal can lead to both increased monthly benefits and back pay.
Call a Veterans Disability Lawyer
If you’re struggling to obtain the benefits you deserve, legal representation can make all the difference. A VA disability attorney from Marc Whitehead & Associates can guide you through every step of the appeals process and fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.
Call today to learn about how you can file a winning claim.
