—
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides disability benefits to veterans who cannot work due to a service-related injury or condition. These benefits are intended to help cover the costs of medical treatment, housing, and other necessities.
To be eligible for VA disability benefits, veterans must have a service-related injury or condition that the VA has rated as causing at least a 10% disability. Some of the factors considered when determining disability benefits include the applicant’s age, overall health, nature of the injury, and more.
The Veteran’s Age
As people age, their bodies change and become less able to heal from injuries or handle the stress of physical activity. Because of this, the VA considers age when determining the level of disability for a veteran. The older the veteran, the more likely their service-related injury or condition will impact their ability to work. The age of the veteran affects their:
- Physical ability to recover from an injury or to tolerate pain
- Ability to adapt to changes in their lifestyle or work environment
- Likelihood of developing complications from their injury or condition
Because of these factors, the VA may give a higher disability rating to an older veteran than to a younger one with the same injury or condition. A Rhode Island lawyer can help with your VA disability claim.
The Applicant’s Overall Health
In addition to age, the VA also considers the veteran’s overall health when determining the level of disability. Veterans with multiple health problems or generally poor health are more likely to significantly impact a service-related injury or condition.
This is because their overall health is already compromised, making it more challenging to cope with the added stress of a disability. Additionally, veterans with chronic health conditions or illnesses may be more likely to receive a higher rating from the VA for their disability.
Nature of the Service-Related Injury or Condition
The VA considers the severity of the injury or condition and how it affects the veteran’s ability to work. For example, a veteran with a back injury that limits their ability to stand or walk for long periods of time is likely to receive a higher rating from the VA than a veteran with a minor ankle sprain.
Additionally, veterans with injuries or conditions that are more severe, such as those that require surgery or result in paralysis, are typically given a higher disability rating than those with less severe injuries or conditions.
The Impact of the Service-Related Injury on the Ability to Work
One of the main factors the VA considers when determining disability benefits is the impact the injury or condition has on the veteran’s ability to work. The VA looks at how the injury or condition limits the veteran’s ability to do everyday activities, such as bathing, dressing, or cooking.
Additionally, the VA looks at how the injury or condition affects the veteran’s ability to work and earn an income. For example, a veteran with a back injury who can no longer work as a truck driver is likely to receive a higher disability rating than a veteran with the same injury who can still work.
Treatment Required
The VA will also consider the amount and type of treatment required for the veteran’s injury or condition when determining disability benefits. Veterans who need extensive medical treatment, such as surgery or long-term hospitalization are typically given a higher disability rating than those who require only medication or minor medical treatment.
Determining Disability Benefits for Veterans
These are just a few examples of the many factors the VA takes into account when determining disability benefits for veterans. If you are a veteran with a service-related injury or condition, be sure to talk to a VA benefits attorney about the factors that may impact your benefits. Contact a legal expert to learn more about how they can help you get the benefits you deserve.
—
