3 minute read
Qualifying for service-connected disability
Do I qualify for service-connected disability compensation from VA?
ASSOCIATED PRESS
The seal affixed to the front of the Department of Veterans Affairs building in Washington, D.C., in this June 21, 2013, photo.
Establishing service connection is an essential step in a VA disability claim. Service connection means that a medical condition occurred as a result of military service.
While service connection might seem straightforward, each VA disability claim is unique. Some veterans will experience circumstances that might not make the path to service connection as clear. We’re breaking down some of these possibilities here.
What does the VA require for service connection?
When establishing service connection, the VA requires three pieces to come together: • You have a diagnosed disability • You experienced an in-service incident, injury, or illness • You have a medical nexus connecting the disability to the in-service incident, injury, or illness
Let’s consider the example of depression. If your medical provider diagnosed you with depression and confirmed that the mental illness was "more likely than not" caused by an in-service event, you likely qualify for service connection.
However, you want to make sure you read your doctor’s statement carefully. The wording of the medical nexus could make or break your claim.
It’s also important to note that if you originally applied for disability benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and a medical provider ended up diagnosing you with depression, you should still be able to obtain service connection for your depression.
Some veterans may wonder if medical discharge establishes service connection. And in many cases, it does. However, you still need to file a claim for VA disability benefits.
For example, a veteran may have been medically discharged from the military for a traumatic brain injury (TBI). If the veteran has a current diagnosis of a TBI and is experiencing the effects of the injury, they would likely qualify for service connection.
Remember, they would still need to file a claim. The VA may require medical evidence and a C&P exam to confirm service connection. And if the VA ends up denying this claim, the veteran may consider appealing.
Have questions about applying for service-connection disability? See, at right, our “How Can I Get Help” graphic.
HOW CAN I GET HELP?
Every county and state has a Veteran Affairs office to answer questions about benefits and provide assistance. There are also other useful resources for veterans in the Inland Northwest.
GO ONLINE
VA.gov
The Department of Veterans Affairs website has resources on every topic relevant to veterans.
VA.gov/welcome-kit
The VA Welcome Guide covers all types of benefits and services available for veterans, new recruits, active service members and their families.
DAV9.com
Based in Post Falls, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 9 Fort Sherman shares links and information to both local and national help organizations for veterans.
Explore.VA.gov/benefitsnavigator
Explore VA benefits and discover which ones you and your family may be eligible to receive.
IN PERSON
Spokane County Regional Veteran Service
1117 N. Evergreen Rd., Spokane Valley, WA (509) 477-3690
Apply for emergency services, or have any benefits or service questions answered by 5 Veteran Service Officers (VSO) and staff.
North Idaho Veteran Services and Benefits Office
120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092
Meet with a VSO or staff for help with VA benefits enrollment, claims or other veteran needs.
Goodwill Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
130 E. Third Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 828-2449
SSVF helps homeless veterans and their families find housing and connects veterans with other support organizations.
BY PHONE
