Attorney
Veterans may be entitled to a variety of benefits. However, dealing with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can be extremely frustrating. Navigating the system, including the numerous forms and requirements, can be overwhelming. In addition, VA regulations and laws are complex and can be difficult to understand.
Our California veteran’s benefits lawyers handle the claims process to relieve the stress and frustration of dealing with the VA. It is our goal to help you receive all benefits you are eligible to receive and to get those benefits for you as quickly as possible.
Seven Things You May Not Know About Veteran’s Benefits
1. Does California have veteran’s benefits?
Many people refer to benefits for veteran’s in California as “California veteran’s benefits.” However, these benefits are administered by the VA and are federal benefits designed to protect and provide for veterans.
2. Same-sex partners may be entitled to veteran’s disability benefits.
If your spouse died because of a service-related illness or injury, you might be entitled to receive benefits even though you are in a same-sex marriage. It is important for same-sex spouses to understand they may be entitled to VA benefits. Our California veteran’s benefits lawyers can help you identify benefits you may be entitled to receive and file for those benefits.
3. How are my monthly VA disability benefits calculated?
The amount of VA disability benefits you receive each month depends on the severity of your impairment. Impairments are rated in increments of 10 percent. Therefore, a veteran with an impairment rating of 60 percent would receive a larger disability payment each month than a veteran with a 30 percent impairment rating. However, if you have multiple disabilities, your spouse is seriously disabled, you have dependents, or your disability is severe (i.e. loss of limbs), you may be entitled to additional amounts.
4. What are the qualifications for Aid and Attendance?
Aid and Attendance benefits, or VA Improved Pension benefits, are available to veterans who served in the military during wartime. The veteran must not have been dishonorably discharged. In addition, the veteran must meet at least one of the following requirements:
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Be at least 65 years of age;
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Have a permanent, total disability;
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Receive skilled nursing care as a resident in a nursing home; OR,
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Receive SSI or SSDI.
5. You can receive help in training for a new job.
Some veterans may have difficulty finding a job after leaving the service. The VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) services can help a veteran by providing job training, resume development, and other services. In addition, veterans may receive assistance in starting their own business.
6. Homeless veterans have access to special employment programs.
he VA provides veteran’s benefits for homeless veterans to help them find work. The Homeless Veteran Supported Employment Program (HVSEP) is a special program that provides support and veteran’s benefits for homeless veterans seeking employment opportunities. There are many other VA benefits for homeless veterans who need assistance.
7. There are specific benefits for female veterans who experienced military sexual trauma.
Female veterans who are victims of military sexual trauma (MST) have access to several benefits related to MST. A veteran may receive MST benefits even