Every veteran with a service-connected disability is entitled to VA disability benefits. However, certain claims tend to be approved at higher rates—especially when you are working with an experienced veterans benefits attorney to ensure that your application is prepared correctly and that you’ve provided all of the necessary proof of your condition.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is characterized by hearing a humming, buzzing, hissing, or clicking in the ears when no external sound is present. It is a fairly low-value claim since it is only rated at 10%, even if the condition is present in both ears. However, for veterans with other service-connected disabilities, earning approval for tinnitus might put them closer to the threshold that is needed for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) benefits.
Musculoskeletal Conditions
This category of VA disability benefits includes problems with the joints and muscles that involve a limited range of motion and/or painful motion. Most claims are valued between 0% and 20%. For many veterans, these claims are secondary conditions associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI), depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or medication side effects.
Mental Health Conditions
This general category includes PTSD, depression, anxiety, somatic disorder, and other related disabilities. Unlike tinnitus and musculoskeletal system conditions, mental health conditions are considered high-value claims because they will likely be rated at 30% or more.
Scars
Claims for scars are fairly easy to get approved because the scarring is readily visible and impossible to dispute. Scars can be rated from 10% to 80%, depending on the size and location. When scars lead to impairment in leg, arm, neck, or back mobility, a veteran may qualify for a secondary service-connected disability under the musculoskeletal category.
Presumptive Disorders
Presumptive disorders are those that are presumed to be service-connected and thus require no additional proof to qualify for benefits. What qualifies as a presumptive disorder depends on when you served, but this category includes type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and several types of cancers.
Do You Need to Speak With a Veterans Benefits Lawyer?
If you need to speak with an experienced veterans benefits lawyer, please contact us online, or call our Virginia Beach office to schedule your free consultation. We have offices throughout Virginia, including Chesapeake, Newport News, Norfolk, and Suffolk.
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