Disability for Veterans and Their Families

For disabled veterans and their families, there are several options for disability benefits. Hiring a disability attorney in Boise, Idaho, is a good step towards winning your claim quickly and without too much stress. It is also important to understand your options as a veteran.    

Service-Connected Disability

When a disability is directly related to a veteran's time in the service, they are eligible for Service Connected Disability Compensation. Veterans Affairs will determine the extent of the disability as well as whether or not the disability is the result of willful misconduct. Veterans who receive a dishonorable discharge are not eligible for benefits. To receive a disability rating of 100% indicates total and permanent disability from which a person is not expected to recover.

Unemployability

Veterans can also qualify for Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability, or TDIU. This rating also indicates a service-related disability that inhibits your ability to hold gainful employment in the service or in a civilian sector. To qualify for this destination, you must have at least one service-related disability with a rating of 60% or higher. You can also have two or more conditions with a combined rating of 70% or higher, but one of the conditions must have a score of at least 40%.

Family Benefits

Family members are eligible for benefits under the Civilian Health and Medical Program of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). Your legal spouse if eligible for benefits so long as you remained married. Children are eligible for benefits until they turn 18. If they are in school full-time, the age limit is extended to 23 years. Children with special needs may be eligible for benefits as adults if the VA determines and classifies them as “helpless” dependents.    

For help understanding your rights as a disabled veteran, contact a disability attorney in Boise, Idaho.