According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans may qualify for up to $3,100 in monthly benefits if they were injured or diseased while on active duty, or if they had a sickness/injury worsen during active military service.
The amount of the benefits depends on the nature of the disability and how many dependents the veteran has. Additional benefits may be paid to veterans with severe disabilities, lost limbs, a seriously disabled spouse, and children or dependent parents. Click here to view the current compensation rates.
To apply, veterans must complete VA Form 21-526, Veterans Application for Compensation or Pension. For more efficient processing, attach dependency records, such as a marriage license and children’s birth certificates, and all relevant doctor and hospital reports. Veterans can also apply online at the VONAPP website. Free information is available by calling (800) 827-1000.
There may also be reimbursement for qualifying veterans who drive or use public transportation. Deductibles may apply, but they can be waived in cases of financial hardship.
There are also many national, state and local organizations that help veterans file their disability claim for free. These service officers are experts in working within the VA system and can advise veterans and their family members on which benefits to apply for. Some of these organization include:
- Disabled American Veterans (DAV) – www.dav.org
- American Legion – www.legion.org
- Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) – www.vfw.org
- Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) – www.texasveterans.org
- Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) – www.woundedwarriorproject.org
Many veterans who have been through the disability claims process recommend working with one of these organizations when filing for federal compensation benefits. Look up an office location near you.
Have you received financial assistance before? Is there anything additional you’d recommend?
