By Allen Gumpenberger | Gumps VA Compensation
If you’re a veteran dealing with a service-connected disability, you may be eligible for VA disability compensation. But what conditions qualify, and how does the VA determine eligibility? Understanding the requirements can make the difference between getting the benefits you deserve and facing unnecessary delays or denials.
At Gumps VA Compensation, we specialize in helping veterans navigate the VA claims process. In this guide, we’ll break down which conditions qualify for VA disability compensation, how the VA rates them, and what steps you need to take to maximize your claim.
What is VA Disability Compensation?
VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly benefit paid to veterans with injuries, illnesses, or conditions that were caused or aggravated by their military service. The amount you receive depends on the severity of your disability, rated by the VA from 0% to 100%.
To qualify, you must meet three key requirements:
- **Have a current diagnosed medical condition.**2. **Prove that the condition is service-connected.**3. Provide medical evidence or service records linking your condition to your time in the military.
If your condition developed after service but is linked to a service-related event, you may still qualify for compensation.
Conditions That Qualify for VA Disability Compensation
The VA recognizes a wide range of physical and mental health conditions for disability benefits. Below are some of the most common categories:
1. Physical Disabilities
✔ Chronic Back and Joint Pain – Many veterans suffer from degenerative disc disease, arthritis, and joint injuries due to the physical demands of military service.
✔ Tinnitus and Hearing Loss – Constant exposure to gunfire, explosions, and loud machinery can lead to long-term hearing damage. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is one of the most commonly approved VA disability claims.
✔ Respiratory Conditions – Burn pit exposure, chemical exposure, or prolonged exposure to harsh environments can lead to conditions like asthma, COPD, or chronic bronchitis.
✔ Migraines – If your migraines are linked to head trauma, PTSD, or another service-related cause, they may qualify for compensation.
✔ Gulf War Syndrome – This applies to veterans who served in the Persian Gulf War and suffer from a variety of unexplained chronic illnesses.
✔ Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – Head injuries from combat, training accidents, or vehicle crashes can lead to long-term cognitive issues.
✔ Agent Orange-Related Conditions – Veterans who served in Vietnam or other areas with Agent Orange exposure may qualify for benefits due to related conditions like diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, ischemic heart disease, and certain cancers.
2. Mental Health Conditions
✔ Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – One of the most common claims, PTSD results from combat stress, military sexual trauma (MST), or other traumatic experiences during service.
✔ Depression and Anxiety – Veterans struggling with chronic mental health issues that started or worsened due to military service may qualify for compensation.
✔ Schizophrenia and Other Psychiatric Disorders – If a psychiatric condition developed during or was worsened by service, it could be eligible for VA benefits.
✔ Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) with Cognitive Impairment – TBIs often come with lasting memory, concentration, and mood issues that can qualify for compensation.
3. Presumptive Conditions
Certain conditions are automatically considered service-connected under the VA’s presumptive condition list, meaning you don’t need to prove the link between your service and the condition.
Presumptive Conditions Include:
✔ Vietnam Veterans: Agent Orange-related illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease.
✔ Gulf War Veterans: Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and gastrointestinal disorders.
✔ Former Prisoners of War (POWs): PTSD, heart disease, and malnutrition-related illnesses.
✔ Radiation Exposure Veterans: Certain cancers and blood disorders from exposure to nuclear testing or radiation.
If you have a presumptive condition, your claim may be processed faster since you don’t need to prove a direct service connection.
How the VA Rates Disability Compensation
The VA assigns a disability rating from 0% to 100% in 10% increments. The higher your rating, the greater your monthly compensation.
✔ 0% Rating: Recognizes the condition is service-connected but doesn’t qualify for compensation.
✔ 10%-40% Rating: Partial disability with some impact on daily life.
✔ 50%-90% Rating: Significant impact on daily activities, work, and quality of life.
✔ 100% Rating: Total disability—unable to work due to service-related conditions.
If you have multiple disabilities, the VA uses a combined rating system, which isn’t just simple addition. For example, two 50% ratings do not equal 100%. Instead, the VA calculates them using a special formula.
How to File a VA Disability Claim
Filing a VA claim can be complicated, but following the right steps can increase your chances of approval.
1. Gather Your Medical Evidence
✔ Doctor’s diagnosis and treatment records
✔ Military service records showing exposure or injury
✔ Statements from fellow service members (buddy letters)
2. Submit Your VA Claim
You can file a claim:
- Online at VA.gov- By mail using VA Form 21-526EZ- In person at a VA regional office– With help from a VA-accredited representative (like us at Gumps VA Compensation)
3. Attend Your Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam
The VA may schedule a C&P exam to evaluate your condition. Be honest about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
4. Follow Up on Your Claim Status
VA claims can take several months. If your claim is denied, don’t give up—you have the right to appeal the decision.
Get Help With Your VA Claim – Gumps VA Compensation
Navigating the VA disability process can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Gumps VA Compensation, we specialize in helping veterans maximize their VA benefits.
✔ We review your claim for free
✔ We help you gather strong medical evidence
✔ We assist with appeals if your claim is denied
If you need help filing or appealing your VA disability claim, contact Gumps VA Compensation today. You’ve served your country—now let’s get you the benefits you deserve.
– Allen Gumpenberger