Indiana Veterans Legal Services Lawyers

How do I file a VA disability claim?

You can file online through VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. You'll need your service records, medical evidence connecting your condition to military service, and any supporting documentation. Many veterans work with an accredited attorney, claims agent, or veteran service organization to ensure their claim is as strong as possible from the start.

What is a service-connected disability?

A service-connected disability is a condition caused or aggravated by your military service. This can include injuries sustained during service, conditions caused by environmental exposures, or mental health conditions like PTSD resulting from service experiences. The VA assigns a disability rating (0-100%) based on the severity of each condition, which determines your compensation amount.

My VA claim was denied. What are my options?

You have several appeal options: a Supplemental Claim (new evidence), a Higher-Level Review (different reviewer examines the same evidence), or an appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Each option has different timelines and strategic considerations. An attorney can review your denial, identify the weaknesses, and recommend the best path forward.

How do I get my military discharge upgraded?

Discharge upgrades are reviewed by your branch's Discharge Review Board (for changes within 15 years) or Board for Correction of Military Records (no time limit, but harder to get). You'll need to show the discharge was improper or inequitable. Recent policy changes have made upgrades easier for veterans whose misconduct was related to PTSD, TBI, sexual assault, or sexual orientation.

What is a C&P exam?

A Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam is a medical examination ordered by the VA to evaluate your claimed disability. The examiner assesses the nature and severity of your condition and provides an opinion on whether it's connected to your service. These exams heavily influence your rating decision. An attorney can help you prepare so the exam accurately reflects your condition.

Can I receive VA disability and work at the same time?

Yes. Unlike Social Security disability, VA disability compensation is not reduced because you work. Your VA disability rating is based on the severity of your service-connected conditions, not your ability to work. However, a Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) rating — which pays at the 100% rate — does have employment limitations.

What is TDIU?

Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) allows veterans who are unable to maintain substantially gainful employment due to service-connected disabilities to receive compensation at the 100% rate, even if their combined rating is less than 100%. To qualify, you generally need one disability rated at 60% or more, or a combined rating of 70% with one condition at 40%.

Are there time limits for filing VA claims?

There is no deadline to file an initial VA disability claim — you can file at any time after discharge. However, the effective date for benefits depends on when you file. Filing within one year of discharge can make benefits retroactive to the day after discharge. Filing later generally means benefits start from the date the VA receives your claim.