Lawyers Helping Illinois Veterans Secure Benefits

Individuals who have served in the U.S. military are entitled to disability benefits for conditions resulting from service-related injuries, illnesses, or events. However, obtaining these benefits can be a complex and time-consuming process, and it doesn’t just happen – you have to apply for it. Veteran monthly compensation payments are provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). To qualify, veterans must provide sufficient evidence to prove that they have a current disability connected to their military service.

If your claim for VA benefits has been denied or you received a lower rating than expected, our veterans disability lawyers are here to help veterans in Illinois. You can use the free resources at the VA to file your initial claim, our team can assist after your initial claim was denied or if you feel your rating is unfair, which unfortunately is a common occurrence.

Many deserving claims are rejected by the VA, but our team is experienced in helping veterans successfully appeal and secure the benefits they deserve. We can help you just like we have helped thousands of veterans in Illinois over the years.

Qualifying for VA Disability Benefits in Illinois

To qualify for VA disability benefits in Illinois, veterans must meet specific requirements set by the VA, which includes proving qualifying military service and demonstrating a connection between their current health diagnosis and their service. Our dedicated VA disability attorneys can guide Illinois veterans through this process.

VA Disability Benefits Are Not Automatic

While it would be ideal for veterans to automatically receive the VA disability benefits they are entitled to upon discharge, the reality is more complicated. Veterans must actively apply for these benefits by submitting VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits. Successfully completing this process requires demonstrating three essential elements:

Current Diagnosis – A medical diagnosis of a disabling condition or illness.
Service Connection – Evidence that the condition originated or was aggravated during active military service.
Nexus – Documentation establishing that the diagnosed condition is directly connected to service.

The thoroughness and quality of evidence submitted with your application significantly influence your VA disability rating. An accurate rating can mean the difference between no compensation for a 0% rating and thousands of dollars in tax-free monthly payments for a 100% rating. For instance, a single veteran with a 100% rating may receive over $3,000 per month, with additional amounts for dependents.

Qualifying Military Service

VA disability benefits are not limited to former active-duty service members. Veterans who were injured or developed illnesses during inactive duty training or active duty for training may also qualify. Additionally, members of certain qualifying organizations linked to the U.S. military may be eligible. If you are unsure of whether or not you meet the criteria, you have nothing to lose in asking.

Veterans must also have a discharge status that is not dishonorable. Most other discharge statuses are acceptable, allowing veterans to qualify for benefits.

Current Diagnosis for a Disabling Condition

Veterans must have a current diagnosis for a disabling condition that is:

Linked to qualifying military service, and
Recognized by the VA as a disability.

The VA covers a wide range of physical and psychological conditions, including:

Physical conditions – Chronic back pain, cancer due to toxic chemical exposure, severe hearing loss, scar tissue, and more.
Psychological conditions – PTSD, anxiety, depression, traumatic brain injury, and others.

A disabling condition must impact a veteran’s ability to live a normal life and earn an income. For example, a mechanic with chronic back pain from a service-related injury may no longer be able to work in their profession, affecting their disability rating and compensation.

Establishing a Service Connection

To secure benefits, veterans must prove their current condition is connected to their service. The most common way to showcase a service connection is through a nexus letter—a medical professional’s opinion linking the condition to a service-related injury or illness. Submitting this evidence in the correct format is critical to avoiding claim denials, and something we can assist with to ensure your best chance at success.

If your claim has been rejected, our Illinois veterans disability lawyers can assist in preparing a stronger appeal.

FAQs About VA Disability Benefits for Illinois Veterans

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a VA Disability Lawyer?

We understand concerns about legal fees. Our firm works on a contingency basis, meaning we only collect a fee if you are awarded retroactive or back pay compensation from the VA.

Attorneys are not permitted to charge for assistance with initial claims, which can be handled with help from local VA offices or VA-accredited agents. We step in after an initial claim has been filed and a decision has been made.

How Long Does It Take for the VA to Decide on My Claim?

The VA’s processing times can vary. It often takes months to receive a decision, whether the claim is approved, denied, or rated inadequately. Updates on claim processing times are available through the VA.

Does the VA Recognize Anxiety as a Disability?

Yes. Anxiety qualifies as a primary condition or as a secondary condition linked to another service-related issue.

Will I Need a VA Examination?

The VA may require a Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exam to evaluate your condition. Not all claims require this exam, and veterans can submit independent medical assessments to support their claims.

Our Veterans Disability Lawyers Stand with Illinois Veterans. See How We Can Help.

Being denied the benefits you’re entitled to can have significant consequences for you and your family. Our experienced VA disability lawyers are dedicated to helping Illinois veterans navigate the appeals process and secure the compensation they deserve. We understand the unique challenges veterans face and are here to advocate for your rights. We have helped thousands of heroes and we can do the same for you.