Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often meet the criteria for additional mental health disorders. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is one of those further diagnoses. The two disorders share many symptoms. VA statistics report that in the general population, nearly 1 in 4 people with PTSD also experience OCD. Co-occurrence among military personnel is even higher. …
Can I Get VA Benefits for PTSD and Alcohol Use Disorder?
Two of the most prevalent diagnoses among veterans today are PTSD and alcohol use disorder (AUD). For veterans navigating the challenges of VA disability benefits, one crucial aspect to understand is how alcohol use disorder can often reinforce a veteran’s claim for PTSD. It is common for veterans to develop alcohol addiction secondary to PTSD. …
What are the most common things to claim for VA disability?
Navigating the VA disability claim process can feel like a daunting task for many veterans. Understanding which conditions are more likely to get approved can make a significant difference. In this article, we’ll explore some of the common things to claim for VA disability. From tinnitus to musculoskeletal injuries, we’ll guide you through the conditions …
Can I Take a Vacation While on Disability?
Yes, if you are receiving Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits, you can take a vacation. In addition, the Social Security Administration acknowledges that these benefits are designed to assist individuals with disabilities and do not restrict travel. You should, however, consider potential additional costs for healthcare services and other considerations related to your disability as …
How Does the VA Assign Disability Percentages?
When you file a claim for service-related disability benefits with the Veterans’ Administration, the VA will review all the medical and other evidence you submit to substantiate your claim. It will then compare those records to the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD) to assign diagnostic codes. Those codes translate into a percentage rating of …
How Does the VA Evaluate My Claim?
VA disability benefits provide a critical financial lifeline for veterans who have been injured in the line of duty. The process of obtaining these benefits can be lengthy, however, and may leave you with difficult questions, such as: “How does the VA evaluate my claim?” and “What evidence do I need for a successful claim?” …
Do VA Disability Benefits Count as Income?
As much as you need and deserve the VA disability benefits you receive, they can also complicate your overall financial picture. Many disabled veterans wonder how their benefits will affect income taxes, child support obligations, and more. Good News Regarding VA Benefits and Taxes If you are worried about paying taxes on your VA disability …
Who Is Eligible for VA DIC Benefits?
The surviving spouse, surviving child, or surviving parent of a deceased veteran may be eligible to receive tax-free Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) from the VA. For each of these three categories of beneficiaries, there are specific guidelines that must be met in order to qualify for monetary benefits. How to Qualify as a Surviving …
What Is VA Survivors Pension?
A VA Survivors Pension—sometimes called the Death Pension—is a monthly, non-taxable payment to a surviving spouse or child when a veteran dies. Your eligibility depends on economic circumstances and proving the veteran’s wartime service. Given the high proof standards, consulting an experienced veterans claim attorney can make the difference when it comes to securing your …
How to File a VA Supplemental Claim
If you are wondering how to file a VA supplemental claim and you have new and relevant evidence, then you should fill out VA Form 20-0995, which is the Decision Review Request: Supplemental Claim. You can submit this form via regular mail, fax, or in person at a VA regional office. You have one year …