You may be eligible for VA disability benefits if:
You have a current illness or injury (known as a condition) that affects your mind or body, and You served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training.
Additionally, at least one of the following must be true:
You got sick or injured while serving in the military—and can link this condition to your illness or injury (called an in-service disability claim).
You had an illness or injury before you joined the military—and serving made it worse (called a pre-service disability claim).
You have a disability related to your active-duty service that didn’t appear until after you ended your service (called a post-service disability claim).
The first step is to create a secure VA account to file an online claim. Alternatively, you can start a claim by visiting the VA website or going to a VA regional office in person. Filing a VA Form 21-526EZ (for disability claims) or VA Form 21-0966 (intent to file) officially begins the process.
VA Disability Compensation is a tax-free monthly benefit paid to veterans who were injured or developed a disability due to their military service. The amount depends on the severity of the disability, which is rated by the VA.
The VA rates disabilities from 0% to 100% in increments of 10%, based on the severity of the condition. Ratings affect the benefit amount, with higher ratings leading to higher monthly compensation.
Yes, veterans can work while receiving VA disability benefits. However, those receiving Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) may have limitations on employment due to the condition that qualifies them for TDIU.