Veterans Disability Benefits in Georgia

Veterans in Georgia have served to protect our freedom and democracy, and for this, we owe them our respect and appreciation.

The Veterans Disability program is one way we express this appreciation. It's designed to provide financial support to veterans who were injured during active duty.

The good news is that disability benefits are one part of the VA's larger mission. The VA offers an array of other benefits to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans.

Understanding Veterans Disability Benefits

The U.S. Veterans Affairs (VA) manages the Veterans Disability program, providing financial aid to eligible veterans who became ill or were injured during their military service.

The program alleviates the financial strains tied to service-related disabilities, and serves as a way to show sincere gratitude to our Georgia veterans.

How Does the Veterans Disability Benefits Program Work?

After receiving a disability claim, the VA evaluates the veteran's condition and provides a disability rating. This determines the amount of monthly compensation. The amount received each month is based on the severity of the condition.

When a Georgia veteran has more than one disability, each condition is assessed and assigned a rating by the VA. These individual ratings are then combined, according to VA regulations, into a single final rating, which is not simply an addition of all ratings, but rather a reflection of the overall impact of all the veteran's disabilities.

Eligibility Requirements for Veterans Disability Benefits

To be eligible for VA benefits, veterans must meet several guidelines.

Both of these must be true:

• You have an existing condition, either physical or mental, that impacts your health, and
• Your service history includes active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training.

And, at least one of the following must be true:

• You incurred an injury or sickness during your military service that can be connected to your current condition. This is known as an in-service disability claim.
  
  or
  
• An existing injury or illness from before your military service worsened due to your service — called a pre-service disability claim, or
• You have a disability that is associated with your active-duty service but it only manifested after your service ended. This is known as a post-service disability claim.

Georgia veterans hoping to qualify for VA disability benefits must have served in active duty and have a service-related disability. The VA assigns disability ratings from 10% to 100%. The compensation the veteran receives is based on the severity of all combined disabilities.

How to Apply for VA Disability in Georgia

Beginning your application for VA Disability benefits in Georgia is smoother if all your military and medical documents are neatly organized.

Prepare important records such as your DD214 or other separation papers, medical evidence supporting your disability, and any dependency records. You can file claims online through VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a regional VA office.

Click here to file a VA Disability claim.

Need help? Call the VA benefits hotline: 800-827-1000

Be sure to provide accurate and complete information when filing your claim. Missing or incomplete information will likely result in denied benefits.

What to Do If Your Georgia VA Claim Is Denied

If your claim is denied, don't lose hope. You have the right to appeal the decision.

To begin your appeal, file a Notice of Disagreement with the VA. You must begin this process within one year from the date the VA mailed the decision.

The appeal process can take several months to a couple of years, depending on the complexity of the appeal, the type of appeal process chosen, and the amount of evidence required for your claim.

More VA Benefits Available to Georgia Veterans

Disability benefits are just one of the many services offered to veterans. The VA extends healthcare services and comprehensive medical care to Georgia veterans at VA hospitals and clinics.

If you're a veteran thinking about homeownership, the VA Home Loans program can help you secure a mortgage loan. The VA also aids veterans' education and career progression through initiatives like the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Additional VA Benefits include:

• VA Pension
• VetSuccess on Campus
• VA Loans
• Health Care
• VA Life Insurance
• Education and Training
• Dependents and Survivor Benefits
• Veterans Readiness and Employment
• VA Burial Benefits

Claiming Your Georgia VA Benefits

Georgia veterans struggling with service-related health concerns should promptly apply for Veterans Disability benefits. In conjunction with other VA support programs, these benefits can substantially improve the lives of veterans and their families.

Georgia — VA Office Locations

Veterans Benefits Administration

National Cemetery Administration

Veterans Health Administration