You can file a disability claim for depression with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by filing out the correct forms and providing proof of your disability. A depression Veterans Disability lawyer can walk you through each step of this process.
An attorney can help you prepare your application and explain how to properly submit the forms. An attorney can also assist you if the VA denies your initial application for benefits. In some cases, you can successfully appeal an initial denial.
Call or text (800) 562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
How Do You File a VA Disability Claim for Depression?
The government provides specific information about how to file a VA Disability claim. You can file your claim:
- Online
- Through the mail
- In person at a regional VA office
- By fax
You can get the help of a trained Veterans Affairs Disability benefits claims lawyer to assist with the application process. A lawyer will guide you as you fill out your application and can ensure that you include all the information that the VA expects you to provide.
You can improve your chances of getting the benefits you deserve by getting professional help before you submit your application.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 562-9830
Can You File a VA Disability Claim for Depression?
Depression qualifies for VA Disability benefits in many cases. Generally, you can file a claim for depression if you have an official diagnosis and if your condition connects back to an event during your military service.
You’ll need to provide evidence to support your claim if you want to get benefits. Some examples of evidence may include:
- Private medical records
- VA medical records
- Statements from friends, family members, and other people who know you
An attorney can take steps to collect evidence to bolster your claim and give you more information about how to file a VA Disability claim for depression.
You May File a Claim for Depression and Other Disabilities
The VA does not limit you to selecting only one disability when you request benefits. Many veterans have more than one emotional or mental condition that can result in a disability.
For example, you may experience anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as depression. You can apply for benefits for all of these conditions. Sometimes, multiple conditions can significantly change your disability rating.
An attorney can give you more information about filing a VA claim for multiple conditions. You do not have to try to handle this complicated process on your own.
What Happens After You File a VA Disability Claim for Depression?
After you file your claim, the VA will review your application and the proof that you submitted alongside it. The VA may ask for additional testing to confirm your condition and the severity of your symptoms.
Once the VA has assessed your situation, it will make a decision regarding your benefits. The VA may:
Approve Your Request for Benefits
If the VA approves your claim for depression, you will receive Veterans Benefits. The amount of benefits that you receive will depend on the severity of your condition. Some veterans may get a 100% disability rating for depression, though this is rare.
An attorney can help you understand your disability rating and how it impacts the benefits you receive through the VA. Note that, even after an initial approval, the VA may later revisit the benefits you receive.
Deny Your Request for Benefits
The VA may also decide to deny your benefits application. The VA may deny your request if it believes that you did not provide enough proof of your condition or if it believes that your depression has not resulted in a disability.
Can You Appeal a VA Denial for Benefits?
You can appeal the VA’s initial decision if the agency denies your request for benefits for depression. You have limited time to appeal the decision, so it’s crucial that you begin working with a lawyer quickly to construct your appeal.
An attorney may need to provide the VA with additional information or explanations regarding your initial claim. The VA denies many initial claims, so you are not alone if the agency requests your first request for benefits.
Talk to Us About Filing a VA Disability Claim for Depression
Do you need to know how to file a VA Disability claim for depression? You can get help filing your application from our team at Marc Whitehead & Associates. We have over 120 years of combined legal experience handling complex disability claims, and we’re ready to provide the assistance you deserve.
Our team will guide you through each step of the application process. We can collect evidence to support your claim, demonstrate the severity of your condition, and prove its connection to your time in military service.
You can also rely on us to help with an appeal if the VA denies your initial application. We’re standing by to provide the steadfast support you deserve, so reach out now.