Veterans Disability Benefits in Wisconsin

Wisconsin, celebrated for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and the warmth of its residents, is honored to be the residence of more than 330,000 valiant veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to supporting these individuals through a variety of benefits and services structured specifically to aid their lives following military service.

A significant benefit is the Veterans Disability program, which awards monthly financial assistance to Wisconsin veterans who have disabilities due to their military service.

The VA Disability Program

To effectively measure a veteran's disability, the VA uses a rating system. Each disability is assigned a rating between 10% and 100%, based on the level of its severity. This rating affects the amount of monthly financial aid a veteran is eligible to receive.

A medical evaluation, known as a Compensation & Pension (C&P) examination, is typically required for most disability claims. Performed by a VA doctor, this evaluation helps determine the disability rating.

For veterans struggling with multiple disabilities, the VA assigns a rating for each one. Then, the ratings are combined into a single, overall disability rating.

Eligibility Guidelines for VA Disability Benefits

Before Wisconsin veterans can qualify for VA benefits, they must satisfy several requirements.

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.

Keep detailed medical records and military reports, along with any proof that connects your current health problem to your time in service. Ask your medical provider for copies of these records if you don't already have them.

Applying for VA Disability in Wisconsin

Before applying for VA disability benefits, have the following information ready:

Personal Information: Full name, Social Security number, and contact details.

Military History: Detailed information about your military service, such as dates of service, branch of service, type of discharge, and details about any injuries or exposure to hazardous materials or conditions.

Medical Information: Comprehensive medical records related to your disability, including diagnosis, treatment records, and reports from healthcare providers that show the link between your disability and your military service.

Disability Details: A clear description of each disability you're claiming, the symptoms, and how it affects your daily life.

Dependency Information: If you have dependents (spouse, children, or dependent parents), you'll need personal details like their Social Security numbers and birthdates. You may also need marriage certificates, birth certificates, or other documents to prove your relationship.

Employment History: Details about your employment history, particularly if your disability has impacted your ability to work.

Direct Deposit Information: Account and routing numbers for your bank account to receive your disability payments.

DD214 Form or Service Records: This form or record provides evidence of your military service.

To apply for disability benefits, visit VA.gov and click on "Sign in to start your application." Then follow the prompts to complete your application.

Click here to file a VA Disability claim.

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

You can also mail your application or apply at a VA office in person.

To apply by mail, download and fill out the Veterans Application for Compensation and/or Pension (VA Form 21-526EZ), and mail it to:

Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444

To apply in person, visit your nearest Wisconsin VA office.

More VA Benefits Available to Wisconsin Veterans

In addition to disability benefits, the VA provides many more benefits to eligible veterans.

Wisconsin veterans can access these additional VA benefits:

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

These benefits serve as vital support for veterans who have honorably served their country. Alongside disability compensation, programs such as health care, life insurance, and job training help facilitate a smoother transition to civilian life.

VA Disability benefits are available for Wisconsin veterans grappling with disabilities related to their military service. If you're dealing with service-related health issues, contact the VA today and apply for the benefits you deserve.

Wisconsin — VA Office Locations

Veterans Benefits Administration

National Cemetery Administration

Veterans Health Administration