Once you have completed your military service, you can apply for disability compensation; there are really only two tests:
* You are of the belief that your illness or injury was caused by your military service, or
* It is your belief that a pre-existing condition was aggravated by your military service
With very few restrictions you can file for disability compensation at any time, there is no limit set on the time as long as you believe that your condition is the result of or has been aggravated by, your years in the service.
Do I need a lawyer to file the claim?
Technically no, you can file the claim yourself using forms that are provided by the VFA. As the forms can be quite complex and of course, errors will only result in delay, many applicants discuss their claim with veterans benefits lawyers in Pennsylvania.
Is it worth claiming benefits?
There are a number of requirements, before you file it is important that you understand what they are:
* Eligible service: You have to have served in a branch of the US military and you must not have been dishonorably discharged. If you were discharged under less than honorable conditions but not dishonorable the benefits may be reduced.
* Your current condition: You must prove that your current condition or illness is directly related to your service. You will have to support your claim with current medical records.
* Evidence: Your application for benefits must be supported by evidence. The best possible evidence is details of the cause of the injury or illness and the treatment you were given at the time, this is information that will be included in your service medical record.
If your claim is denied you have the right to hire veterans benefits lawyers in Pennsylvania and appeal the decision. You are given one year from the date of the initial decision to notify the VA of your intention to appeal.
If your claim for veterans benefits was denied you have every right to hire veterans benefits lawyers in Pennsylvania and appeal the rating decision. You are invited to discuss your claim with Jackson & MacNichol Attorneys at Law.
