If you have a disability that prohibits you from working, you may be eligible to file a VA disability claim. If you have previously been denied or do not know what is needed to file a disability claim, we are here to help. You can win your claim without an attorney, but it can be very intimidating. 

As a VA you have a better chance of winning your claim by hiring an attorney to help. The lawyers at our firm are experienced and dedicated in helping you file a disability claim and get the disability compensation you deserve. Even if your claim has previously been denied, contact us today to get top legal assistance to appeal your claim. 

DOCUMENTS NEEDED TO FILE A va benefits CLAIM

There are certain documents that are required to show that you are eligible for VA disability benefits such as: 

• Birth certificate or proof of birth
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status if you were not born in the United States
• U.S. military discharge papers if you had service before 1968
• W-2 or self-employment forms from the last year
• Adult disability report that reveals more about your work history, injuries, and illnesses
• Medical records that you already possess such as medical records, doctor’s reports, and recent test results
• Award letters, pay stubs, settlement agreements, and any other permanent or temporary workers’ compensation benefits that you receive

HOW do veterans QUALIFY for a disability claim? 

In order to qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must have worked at jobs that are covered by Social Security. In addition, you must also have a health condition that meets the standards of a Social Security disability. Your medical condition must meet their definition of disability to be approved. Typically, the benefits are paid monthly to those who are unable to work for a year or more. 

The benefits usually continue until you are fully able to work again. There are also work incentives that provide health care coverage and continued benefits to assist you with making your transition back to work. However, if you are still receiving benefits once you reach the retirement age, your Social Security benefits will convert to retirement benefits but the amount stays the same. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS TO FILING A VA DISABILITY CLAIM

WHAT IF MY va disability claim APPLICATION IS DENIED? 

It is likely that your application will be denied the first time you file a disability claim. If your application is denied, you have the right to ask the Social Security Administration to review your application again. They will notify you that your application for disability benefits has been denied along with how you can submit an appeal. 

DO I NEED AN ATTORNEY TO WIN MY benefits DISABILITY CLAIM?

While you do not need an attorney to win your benefits, it will be very difficult. An experienced attorney can help you file a disability claim and make sure that you have all documents and medical records to complete the application. Most claims are heard in front of an administrative law judge before benefits can be received. This is where having an attorney will increase your chances of winning your claim. 

At Wettermark Keith, our lawyers have worked with the Social Security Administration numerous times and know what they are looking for when reviewing a claim. We have the necessary resources and experience to help you receive the benefits you deserve for your disability. 

WHAT IS CONSIDERED A DISABILITY BY SOCIAL SECURITY?

Before you file a veterans disability claim, you may ask how Social Security decides whether or not you are actually disabled. 

You are considered disabled by Social Security if all of the following are true:

• Your medical condition prohibits you from doing the work you did before.
• You are unable to adjust to other work due to your medical condition.
• Your disability is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.

It is important to note that partial disabilities or short-term disabilities are not eligible for any benefits. Social Security presumes that families have access to other forms of compensation under short-term disabilities such as workers’ compensation, insurances, savings, and more.