As a veteran who has been injured while on active duty, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. The government has a responsibility to provide support to injured veterans, and this includes compensation for their injuries. Unfortunately, as an individual unemployability lawyer like our good friend Gregory M. Rada, Attorney at Law can explain, sometimes the VA falls short in providing adequate support. In this article, we’ll walk you through why it’s important to get compensation for your injuries, how the TDIU rating system works, and what to look for in a disability lawyer.
What are unemployability benefits?
Unemployability benefits, also known as Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU), are VA disability benefits that are paid to veterans who are unable to work due to service-connected disabilities. To qualify for TDIU, a veteran must have a service-connected disability that is rated at least 60% disabling, or have multiple service-connected disabilities that combine to a total disability rating of 70% or more.
Why Should I Seek Compensation?
Medical care is expensive, and if you’ve suffered a serious injury during your active duty, you shouldn’t be abandoned. You’ll need money to pay for any rehabilitation and to help you adjust to your new life. You should be focused on your recovery, not on whether you can afford your continuing treatment. Compensation can cover the costs of your medical and rehabilitation bills, and that’s a major weight off your shoulders.
What is the TDIU rating system?
Every service-connected disability will receive a percent rating based on how much benefits you’ll receive from the VA. This ranges from 10% for injuries like tinnitus, all the way to 100% for injuries such as two or more paralyzed or amputated limbs. A 100% rating for a single disability means you qualify for the largest VA payout possible for your injuries. On the other hand, a TDIU means your injuries weren’t 100%, but you aren’t able to acquire a gainful occupation. It can be challenging to prove that you’re eligible for these benefits, but a lawyer can help.
What Should I Do If the VA isn’t Paying Me?
After your service, you’ll want some way to stay afloat, whether it’s through work or VA support. However, finding a job with injuries can be difficult. Injuries sustained during active duty can make it difficult to find work once you return home, and this can be frustrating, to say the least – especially if the VA is leaving you hanging.
If the VA isn’t supporting you, you need to lawyer up. The right lawyer can help ensure you have the financial means to support yourself while you look for work or pursue further education.
What Should I Look for In a Lawyer?
Not all lawyers are created equal, so you need to get in touch with a legal team that really cares. Look for a firm that offers personalized case management, free consultations, and an experienced lawyer who was also in the armed forces. The right lawyer can help you get the money you deserve, while also helping you navigate all the paperwork.
If you’re a veteran who has been injured while on active duty, it’s important to know your rights and understand the compensation available to you. The TDIU rating system can help determine the amount of benefits you receive from the VA, and a disability lawyer can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with a lawyer today to get started.