Veterans who have multiple disabilities may experience challenges when applying for VA benefits. Each disability has its symptoms, treatments, and impact on daily life, making it tough to keep thorough documentation of each of them. The VA also has a complex rating system for disabilities that isn’t as simple as adding each condition’s rating together. It is essential for veterans to understand how to apply for VA benefits when they have more than one condition in order to receive the compensation they deserve. In this blog, we will be going over how to apply for VA benefits when you have multiple disabilities, providing insights and tips on how to navigate this process effectively.
Understanding VA Disability Ratings for Multiple Conditions
When rating conditions, the VA assigns you a rating expressed as a percentage based on the severity of your condition, with 100% being the most severe. When you have multiple conditions, each condition will receive its own rating, but your overall rating is determined using the Combined Rating Table. This table is used to avoid giving someone a rating of over 100%. It is important to be aware of this rating system before you apply for VA benefits.
Here is how the table works:
- Start with the Highest Rating: Begin with your highest disability rating (For example, 50%).
- Subtract from 100%: Subtract this rating from 100% to see what percentage of health is left. For example, 100% – 50% = 50% “healthy.”
- Apply the Next Rating: Take the next highest rating (For example, 30%) and apply it to the remaining health percentage. So, 30% of the remaining 50% is 15%.
- Add Together: Add this to the original rating. So, 50% + 15% = 65%.
- Round Off: Round to the nearest 10%. So, 65% becomes 70%.
Read More: How to Apply for a VA Benefits Rating Increase
Gathering Evidence for Each Disability
The first step in applying for VA benefits with multiple disabilities is gathering evidence. It is crucial to have thorough and accurate medical documentation for each disability. Inaccurate or missing documentation can lead to delays or even denial of the benefits that you are entitled to.
In order to ensure that each disability is completely documented, here are some of the types of documents you should gather:
- Medical Records: This includes your medical history, test results, and treatment records. They also can show the diagnosis and progression, these should be up-to- date.
- Doctor’s Statements: Statements from your doctor can explain how each disability affects your daily life and work, describe the severity of your condition, and confirm any connections between your service and your current health issues.
- Buddy Statements: These are statements from friends, family, or colleagues who can provide personal insights into how your disabilities affect your daily life and activities.
- Functional Impact Statements: Document how each disability impacts your ability to perform daily tasks and work.
All of these types of documentation are essential for filing a successful claim for all of your disabilities.
Filing a Claim for Multiple Disabilities
Filing a VA disability claim can be a complex process, especially when dealing with multiple disabilities. Here is a simplified guide for how to start this process:
- Gather Documentation: Make sure you have all supporting documentation for each of your disabilities (medical evidence, doctor statements, etc.).
- Complete the VA Form 21-526EZ: You will need to get a copy of the VA Form 21-526EZ. You can download this form from the VA website or request it from a local VA office. Make sure you fill this form out thoroughly and accurately.
- Organize Your Evidence: Filing for multiple disabilities requires lots of documentation. It is important to organize all your documentation in a file, grouping evidence by each condition. This helps the VA reviewer can easily locate and review the relevant information.
- Submit Your Claim: Once you completed the VA Form 21-526EZ and gathered all supporting documentation, you can submit your claim. You can submit it online through the VA’s eBenefits portal, mail it to a VA regional office, or turn it in to a local VA office.
Learn More: Top Reasons the VA Might Deny Your Disability Claim
Seeking Legal Assistance With Your Claim
It is highly recommended to consult with a VA attorney or representative for complex cases, such as ones dealing with multiple disabilities. Professional guidance can significantly improve your chances of a successful case. An experienced VA attorney can help organize and present your evidence effectively, and navigate the appeal process if necessary.
If you need help with your VA disability claim or appeal, contact Tabak Law. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping veterans like you navigate the complexities of the claims process and achieve the benefits you are entitled to.
Nothing posted on this website is intended, nor should be construed, as legal advice. Blog postings and site content are available for general education purposes only.