Frequently Asked Questions

Categories:

What else could I have been exposed to while in the service?

Many service members were exposed to a number of different hazardous substances, including the following: Asbestos Extreme Noise Industrial Solvents Lead Radiation Fuels PCBs and other coolants CARC Paint and many others.

What are Airborne Hazards and Burn Pit Exposures?

The term “Airborne Hazard” refers to any sort of airborne contaminant or toxic substance that veterans are exposed to through the air they breathe. Many military service members were likely exposed to airborne hazards through the following: The smoke and fumes from open burn pits Sand, dust, and particulate matter General air pollution common in certain countries Fuel, aircraft exhaust, and other mechanical fumes Smoke from oil well fires

What is Gulf War Veterans Illness

Additionally known as Gulf War Syndrome, a significant number of acute and/or chronic symptoms have been linked to Gulf War Syndrome. These include fatigue, muscle pain, cognitive problems, insomnia, rashes and gastrointestinal problems. At least a third of the nearly 700,000 U.S. veterans who served in the 1991 Gulf War are afflicted with enduring chronic multi-symptom illness, a condition with serious consequences.

How does the VA rate disabilities?

When it comes to compensation claims related to service, the VA does not add whole numbers together to get your rating. Using this system, the VA takes percentages of percentages.

If my VA Disability claim was denied, How long do I have to appeal?

Generally, you have one year to enter your appeal if you want to continue your case. However, we strongly encourage people to appeal within 30 days. 

What is Agent Orange Exposure?

Agent Orange was a tactical herbicide used by the U.S. military for control of vegetation. If you served in the Vietnam War or at the Korean DMZ between 1962 and 1975, chances are you were exposed.

How do I increase my VA disability rating?

If you are already receiving disability pay for a condition from the VA, you can file an increased rating claim using the basic claims form or by submitting a letter to your regional office indicating that your condition has worsened and you would like it reevaluated. 

Are a veterans disability payments continued for a surviving spouse after death?

A disability payment is not automatically continued for your surviving spouse. But a surviving spouse may be eligible for a death pension depending on income or other benefits.

As a Disabled Veteran, Can I still Work?

A veteran generally can still work when receiving VA disability. However, typically in order to receive a 100 percent schedule rating for certain disabilities, you cannot work full time and you can’t earn too much money (generally anything above the poverty line). This depends on each individual case and your case could vary. 

Can a veteran receive both VA and Social Security benefits?

YES.  As a disabled veteran you are entitled to receive both VA and Social Security disability payments.  One thing to remember though, just because you get one, doesn’t mean that you’re entitled to both. 

How long does an Uncontested Divorce take?

This largely depends on several factors including how quickly you and your spouse can agree on things and how fast the judge will act.  Under perfect circumstances an Uncontested Divorce can be finalized within 30 days of filing. 

Why is Uncontested Divorce preferable to a Contested Divorce?

Uncontested divorce is vastly preferable to a contested divorce provided that the parties are capable of getting along. Uncontested divorce is good for the following reasons.

  1. It keeps things amicable: You may be getting a divorce but there’s no need to be nasty to each other. 
  2.  It’s much quicker.  Uncontested divorces can be finalized in as little as 30 days in certain circumstances.
  3. It’s cheaper.  Most contested divorces START at $5,000 and can often cost in excess of $10,000.  Even the most complicated Uncontested divorces can often be finalized for less than $2,500 including court costs.