VA Disability

Many veterans suffer from Tinnitus and get denied, we can help

in VA Disability

Tinnitus is a medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide, including many veterans who have served their country. It is characterized by a ringing, buzzing, or other noise in the ears, and it can be a debilitating condition that significantly impacts quality of life. In this essay, we will examine how it affects veterans and how they can apply for VA disability because of the condition.

It is a common problem among veterans, especially those who have been exposed to loud noises or explosions during their military service. According to the Veterans Administration (VA), tinnitus is the most common disability among veterans, with more than 1.5 million veterans receiving disability benefits for the condition. In fact, it is so prevalent among veterans that it is often referred to as “the sound of war.”

Tinnitus can have a significant impact on a veteran’s quality of life. It can interfere with sleep, making it difficult to get a good night’s rest. It can also make it difficult to concentrate or hear conversations, which can make it challenging to communicate with friends and loved ones. In severe cases, the condition can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

Fortunately, veterans who are suffering from tinnitus can apply for VA disability benefits. To apply for VA disability benefits, veterans must first establish that they have a current diagnosis of tinnitus. This can be done by seeing a VA doctor or by providing medical records that show the diagnosis of tinnitus. Once the diagnosis has been established, veterans can submit a claim for disability benefits.

The VA has established a rating system for tinnitus disability claims. The rating system is based on severity and it ranges from 0% to 10%. A rating of 0% means that the condition is present but does not interfere with daily activities, while a rating of 10% means that it is so severe that it interferes with daily activities.

To determine the severity of the tinnitus, the VA will consider factors such as the frequency and intensity, the impact of the tinnitus on daily activities, and the effectiveness of any treatments that have been tried. Once the severity has been established, the VA will assign a disability rating and determine the amount of disability compensation that the veteran is entitled to.

In addition to disability compensation, veterans with tinnitus may also be eligible for other VA benefits. For example, veterans with a severe case may be eligible for hearing aids or other assistive devices that can help manage the symptoms. The VA may also provide counseling or other mental health services to help veterans cope with the emotional impact of tinnitus.

In conclusion, tinnitus is a common problem among veterans that can have a significant impact on quality of life. However, veterans who are suffering from tinnitus can apply for VA disability benefits. To apply for VA disability benefits, veterans must establish that they have a current diagnosis of tinnitus and submit a claim for disability benefits. The VA will then assign a disability rating and determine the amount of disability compensation that the veteran is entitled to. In addition to disability compensation, veterans with tinnitus may also be eligible for other VA benefits, such as hearing aids or counseling. If you have been denied VA benefits despite being diagnosed with Tinnitus, contact us so we can help you with your appeal.

PTSD is one of the most common disabilities among veterans

in VA Disability

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. For veterans who have experienced combat, it is a common condition that can significantly impact their daily lives. Fortunately, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers benefits for veterans who are service-connected for PTSD. In this blog post, we’ll explore the condition and VA benefits in more detail.

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms of the condition can include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and depression. For veterans, the condition can be caused by combat, military sexual trauma, or other traumatic events experienced during their time in service.

PTSD and VA Benefits

If you are a veteran who is service-connected for PTSD, you may be eligible for VA benefits. Service connection is a legal finding that a veteran’s condition was caused or aggravated by their time in service. To be eligible for VA benefits, you must have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10%.

VA benefits for veterans with service-connected PTSD can include:

  1. Disability compensation: Veterans who are service-connected for the condition may be eligible for disability compensation. Disability compensation is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to veterans who have a service-connected disability. The amount of compensation you may receive depends on the severity of your PTSD and other factors.

  2. Healthcare: Veterans who are service-connected for PTSD are eligible for free healthcare through the VA. This includes mental health treatment, which can help manage symptoms of the condition.

  3. Vocational rehabilitation: If your PTSD is preventing you from working, the VA offers vocational rehabilitation and employment services to help you transition to a new career.

  4. Education and training: Veterans with service-connected disabilities, including PTSD, may be eligible for education and training benefits through the VA. These benefits can help you pay for college, vocational training, and other educational programs.

  5. Home loans: Veterans with service-connected disabilities, may be eligible for VA home loan benefits. These benefits can help you buy, build, or improve a home.

  6. Life insurance: Veterans with service-connected disabilities, may be eligible for VA life insurance benefits.

Applying for VA Benefits

To apply for VA benefits for the condition, you’ll need to submit a claim to the VA. The claim process can be complex, and it’s important to provide as much evidence as possible to support your claim. This may include medical records, service records, and statements from friends or family members who can attest to the impact of your PTSD on your daily life.

If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Working with an experienced VA benefits attorney can help you navigate the appeals process and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

PTSD is a common reality for veterans

PTSD is a common mental health condition among veterans, and the VA offers a range of benefits for veterans who are service-connected for the condition. If you’re a veteran with service-connected PTSD, it’s important to explore your options for VA benefits and to work with an experienced attorney to ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.

Bilateral Hearing Loss in Veterans

in VA Disability

Bilateral hearing loss is a condition that affects both ears and results in reduced hearing sensitivity. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to loud noises, genetics, aging, infections, and certain medications. The degree of hearing loss can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact an individual’s ability to communicate and function in daily life.

Bilateral hearing loss is a common issue for veterans, especially those who have served in combat or in other noisy environments. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), hearing loss and tinnitus are the two most prevalent service-connected disabilities among veterans. In fact, the VA reported that nearly 1.3 million veterans received disability compensation for hearing loss in 2020.

If you are a veteran with bilateral hearing loss and it is impacting your ability to function in daily life, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits. The VA provides disability compensation to veterans who have a current diagnosed disability that is related to their military service. To qualify for disability compensation, you must have:

  1. A current diagnosis of bilateral hearing loss or tinnitus
  2. Evidence that your hearing loss is related to your military service
  3. A VA disability rating, which is based on the severity of your hearing loss

To establish service connection for your hearing loss, you will need to provide evidence that your hearing loss is related to your military service. This can be done by providing evidence of exposure to loud noises, such as combat experience, training exercises, or working with heavy machinery. You will also need to provide medical evidence, such as hearing test results and doctor’s reports, to establish the severity of your hearing loss.

The VA disability rating for bilateral hearing loss is based on the degree of hearing loss, as measured by a hearing test. The rating ranges from 0% to 100%, with higher ratings indicating more severe hearing loss. The VA also provides additional compensation for hearing aids and other assistive devices that are needed to manage your hearing loss.

To apply for VA disability benefits for bilateral hearing loss, you can submit a claim online or through your local VA office. You will need to provide supporting documentation, including medical records and evidence of service connection. It is also helpful to work with a VA-accredited representative, such as a Veterans Service Officer or an attorney, to ensure that your claim is complete and accurate.

Bilateral hearing loss is a common condition among veterans and can significantly impact their daily life. If you are a veteran with bilateral hearing loss and it is impacting your ability to function, you may be eligible for VA disability compensation. To qualify for benefits, you will need to establish service connection for your hearing loss and provide medical evidence to support your claim. Working with a VA-accredited representative can help ensure that your claim is complete and accurate.

What are the symptoms of Agent Orange Exposure.

in VA Disability

 
Agent Orange was a herbicide used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War to destroy vegetation that provided cover for enemy troops. Unfortunately, the herbicide contained dioxin, a toxic chemical that can cause a range of health problems in humans. The effects of Agent Orange exposure can vary depending on the level and duration of exposure, but some of the most common symptoms are:
 

  1. Skin problems: Exposure can cause various skin problems, such as rashes, blisters, and acne-like lesions. These skin issues can be itchy and uncomfortable, and may take a long time to heal.

  2. Respiratory problems: Exposure can also cause respiratory problems, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. These symptoms may be a sign of bronchitis or asthma, which can be worsened by exposure to dioxin.

  3. Digestive problems: exposure can also affect the digestive system, causing problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms may be a sign of inflammatory bowel disease, which has been linked to exposure to dioxin.

  4. Neurological problems: Exposure can also affect the nervous system, causing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and tremors. In some cases, it may also lead to peripheral neuropathy, a condition that affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, leading to tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.

  5. Cancer: One of the most serious long-term effects of exposure is an increased risk of cancer. The herbicide has been linked to various types of cancer, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, soft tissue sarcoma, and prostate cancer. It can take several years or even decades for cancer to develop after exposure to Agent Orange.

  6. Reproductive problems: Exposure can also affect the reproductive system, causing problems such as infertility, miscarriages, and birth defects. Dioxin can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance, leading to reproductive issues in both men and women.

  7. Psychological problems: Some studies have suggested that exposure may also increase the risk of psychological problems, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This may be due to the psychological stress of experiencing war or to the chemical effects of dioxin on the brain.

In conclusion, Agent Orange exposure can cause a range of health problems, from skin rashes and respiratory issues to cancer and reproductive problems. If you believe you may have been exposed to Agent Orange, it’s important to talk to your doctor and get tested for possible health issues. While there is no cure for Agent Orange exposure, early detection and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. If you have been denied VA benefits for Agent Orange exposure, contact our helpful attorneys  and let us see how we can help you.

What chronic conditions do veterans have that qualify for VA disability?

in VA Disability

 

There are several chronic conditions that veterans may have that can qualify them for VA disability compensation. These conditions may be related to military service or may have developed after military service due to age, genetics, or other factors. Some of the common chronic conditions that may qualify veterans for VA disability compensation include:

  1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences a traumatic event. Many veterans experience trauma during their military service, such as combat or sexual assault. PTSD can cause a range of symptoms, including flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression.

  2. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): TBI is a type of brain injury that can occur when a person experiences a blow to the head. Many veterans experience TBI during their military service, particularly if they were exposed to blasts or explosions. TBI can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating.

  3. Hearing Loss and Tinnitus: Exposure to loud noises, such as explosions or gunfire, can cause hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). These conditions can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and may qualify veterans for VA disability compensation.

  4. Musculoskeletal Disorders: Many veterans experience musculoskeletal disorders, such as back pain, neck pain, or joint pain, due to the physical demands of military service. These conditions may be related to repetitive motions, heavy lifting, or exposure to extreme temperatures.

  5. Gulf War Syndrome: Gulf War Syndrome is a collection of symptoms that can occur in veterans who served in the Gulf War. These symptoms may include fatigue, joint pain, headaches, and memory problems. The exact cause of Gulf War Syndrome is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to exposure to environmental toxins or infectious agents.

  6. Agent Orange Exposure: Veterans who served in Vietnam may have been exposed to Agent Orange, a herbicide that was used to clear vegetation. Exposure to Agent Orange has been linked to a range of health conditions, including diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and certain types of cancer.

It is important to note that these are just a few examples of the chronic conditions that may qualify veterans for VA disability compensation. The specific criteria for VA disability compensation can vary depending on the condition and the circumstances of the veteran’s military service. Veterans who believe they may be eligible for VA disability compensation should consult with a VA-accredited attorney or representative to discuss their options.

The HAVEN act and Bankruptcy

in Bankruptcy, VA Disability

Do you ever wonder how bad rumors get started?  Bad headlines don’t help.

Congress is considering a new piece of legislation.  It’s called the HAVEN act.  The act will correct a problem that has existed since the 2005 overhaul of bankruptcy.  

If you are a veteran who receives disability income from the VA, that money is counted in your means test.  In other words, it counts against you in bankruptcy, whereas regular disability income does not. 

Frankly, that’s not fair. 

The HAVEN Act saves the day

That’s where the HAVEN act comes in.  

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a liquidation bankruptcy (it’s what most people who are in big debt want) and it gets rid of all of your debts that are dischargeable.  The problem is, you have to qualify for a Chapter 7 via the means test.  

This military disability increases your total income, which in turn can cause your income to be so high that you are forced to do a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. 

The HAVEN act eliminates military disability income from the means test just like regular SSI disability and gives you a big boost.  

There is, unfortunately a lot of rumors going around about the current state of bankruptcy and military benefits.  

Misconceptions about the current system

 A reporter for the military times has stated that veterans who file bankruptcy under our current system risk having the benefits taken away.  He states “Bankrupt vets can lose their disability benefits.”

This is patently false.  

The current system allows the military disability benefits to be counted in the means test, but it by no means eliminates your disability benefits.  

All this means is that IF your income is high enough, it could cause you to have to do a Chapter 13 bankruptcy instead of a Chapter 7.  

But, I repeat, you do not LOSE your benefits.  You still get a check from the VA every month just like you always did and will continue to do for the rest of your life.  

If you file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the trustee can’t take your check from YOUR bank account. 

Additionally, the Chapter 13 trustee does not take them from you either.  They still go into YOUR bank account and you may have to use some of your disability money to make your Chapter 13 payment.  

While all of this may seem confusing, rest assured, as a bankruptcy lawyer, it’s my job to understand the nuances of the law and make sure you get the best outcome possible.  Trust me, I do and you will. 

If you’re a veteran who is concerned about your VA benefits and the bankruptcy process, call me.  I understand it a lot better than you may think (I actually work with veterans to get VA disability for them as well). 

We’re here to help, especially those who have worked so hard and sacrificed so much already.