Tennessee VA Disability Lawyer

Applying for VA disability benefits is a valuable option for many veterans seeking support for service-connected disabilities. The application process involves numerous steps with strict requirements, including gathering relevant documents, completing VA forms, and having a firm grasp of the eligibility criteria.

Navigating this process alone is often overwhelming and confusing for veterans, adding more stress to an already difficult situation. If you feel like you would benefit from having experienced guidance from a VA disability lawyer who is familiar with the requirements and procedures, contact the Law Office of Daniel Martin. Our VA disability and VA-accredited attorney has the targeted experience veterans need when seeking the benefits they deserve for their service-connected disabilities.

The VA disability application process is easier with guidance from an experienced attorney, but the information below about the application process and eligibility requirements can give you a headstart and help you make an informed decision about what your next steps should be.

Understanding VA Disability Benefits

VA disability compensation is available to veterans whose military service led to a new or worsened medical condition. Veterans may qualify based on physical or mental health conditions, as long as they meet the VA’s eligibility criteria.

When you have a trusted VA lawyer on your side to guide you through the application process, you can rest assured knowing you’ll be informed and supported with each new development in your claim. VA-accredited lawyer Daniel Martin has been helping veterans throughout Tennessee get the disability benefits they’re entitled to for over a decade. He balances compassion for his clients’ challenges with his fierce dedication to advocacy and disability law. Contact the Law Office of Daniel Martin to schedule your free consultation today.

VA Disability Eligibility Requirements

You might be eligible for VA disability benefits if you meet both of the following requirements:

• You have an illness or injury that affects either your mind or body
• You served in the military on active duty or for training

One of the following must also apply to your situation:

• Your medical condition occurred while serving in the military
• A condition you had prior to joining the military was worsened by serving
• You experienced a disabling condition related to your military service, but it didn’t appear until after discharge or retirement

Any number of conditions could qualify a veteran for VA disability benefits, but the VA has a list of presumptive conditions that it automatically assumes were caused by military service. These conditions are generally easier to qualify for because it is not required that applicants prove their military service is the cause. The VA’s presumptive conditions are:

• A chronic illness that occurs less than 12 months after discharge
• An illness caused by contact with hazardous materials like toxic chemicals
• An illness that results from being a prisoner of war

In addition to the service-connected nature of the illness or injury, it is also necessary for veterans to have a disability rating assigned by the VA before receiving disability benefits. A VA disability rating reflects the severity of your medical condition and determines how much compensation you qualify for.

What Will the VA Disability Application Process Look Like?

The first step to take before you begin the VA disability application is to focus on the supporting documentation you’ll need to prove your claim. This includes:

• Your service records, such as your DD Form 214
• Medical records related to your condition
• Evidence showing your disability’s connection to your military service
• Personal statement describing the ways your condition impacts your day-to-day life

To  complete your initial application click here. After completing your initial application, please contact our offices for a free consultation.

Filing Your VA Disability Claim in Tennessee

You can use the VA’s eBenefits portal online to apply for disability benefits, which offers quicker processing times than applying by mail. Once you submit your application and supporting documentation, the VA may require you to complete a Compensation and Pension examination. This step allows examiners to evaluate your disability based on severity and its connection to your military service.

Working with an experienced VA lawyer provides invaluable insight into how the process works and what the VA looks for when evaluating claims. The Law Office of Daniel Martin offers free consultations to veterans with service-connected disabilities who are seeking VA benefits, so contact us today to schedule a time to discuss your case with our Tennessee VA lawyer.

Appealing a VA Disability Denial

You can file an appeal if your claim is denied or if you disagree with the disability rating the VA assigned to you. Your appeal options include:

• Filing a supplemental claim
• Requesting a higher-level review
• Appealing to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals

There are strict time limits and legal procedures for each step of an appeal, so contact Daniel Martin for guidance to ensure you don’t miss any important requirements. You can schedule a free consultation by contacting the Law Office of Daniel Martin today.