Q: How do I apply for service connected veterans’ benefits?

A: By obtaining a VA Form 10-10EZ enrollment form. There are many ways to obtain this form some of which are; online, calling the VA, or visiting your local VA office.

Q: How long does it take for a disability claim to be processed once I have applied?

A: It depends in part on the complexity of the claim. But generally speaking, it takes on average about six months or more for a veteran filing for disability benefits to receive a decision. With ongoing military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, the number of applications for benefits has drastically increased in recent years and has caused some backlog at the VA regional offices.

Q: Can I get an attorney or another person to help me with my VA claim?

A: During the initial application process, most veterans choose to be either unrepresented or select a Veterans’ Service Organization (VSO) to represent them. Typically, attorneys do not represent clients in the initial application stage because by law no attorneys’ fees may be charged for the initial application.

Q: How much does it cost to hire an attorney to work on my case?

A: We work on a 20% contingency fee. We only get paid if we when your case. If we are unable to secure you compensation then there are no attorney fees. There is also no cost to for consultations either.

Q: How does the VA decide the level of monthly compensation that I may receive?

A: The VA evaluates each service-related condition by percentages. Based on medical evidence, the VA assigns a disability percentage, which can range from 0% to 100%. The amount of the basic disability benefit also ranges accordingly from $123 to $2,673 per month, depending on the service connected disability percentage assigned. For some conditions, the maximum level of compensation is 100%, however for others it may be less.

Q: I feel my disability was rated less severe than I believe it actually is. How long will would an appeal take?

A: Typically, when decisions are appealed, the appeals process can take an average of 6 to 12 months to complete. The VA has seen an increase in appeals in recent years and more complex appeals can take longer to process.

Q: My service connected disability has gotten worse since I received my last disability evaluation. What can I do?

A: You should file a claim for an increased evaluation of a current disability that has worsened. Write a letter specifying that the disability has worsened and include any medical evidence that supports your claim for an increased disability evaluation. Mail the completed VA Form 21-4138 or letter to your VA regional office.

Q: As the surviving spouse of a deceased veteran, am I entitled to compensation benefits?

A: Surviving spouses may be entitled to two different types of benefits. Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) if the veteran died while on active duty, from a disability related to their military service, and/or the veteran was service connected at 100% for ten years. Surviving spouses may be also be eligible to receive Death Pension benefits if the veteran served during wartime. This is strictly based on financial need alone.