Can I receive disability compensation from the VA?

To determine eligibility for disability compensation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, multiple factors are considered. Generally, veterans who have a disability resulting from a disease or injury incurred or aggravated during active military service may qualify for compensation. The disability must be formally diagnosed and the veteran must demonstrate a connection—often referred to as "service connection"—between the current disability and their military service. Veterans must provide evidence of their disability, which may include medical records, service records, and other documentation that supports their claim. The VA assesses the severity of the disability and assigns a rating, which can range from zero to one hundred percent, indicating the level of impairment. Compensable ratings typically start at ten percent. Additionally, it is essential for veterans to adhere to the VA's application process, which involves submitting a claim, attending necessary examinations, and possibly appealing any decisions that may not be favorable. The VA has established various resources and guidelines to assist veterans through this process, and the current web page for the Department of Veterans Affairs can provide detailed information about applying for compensation benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to gather the necessary documentation for a claim.