Disability compensation is a monetary benefit paid to veterans who are disabled by an injury or illness that was incurred or aggravated during active military service. Disability compensation varies with the degree of disability and the number of veteran's dependents, and is paid monthly. Veterans with certain severe disabilities may be eligible for additional special monthly compensation. The benefits are not subject to federal or state income tax.
It is important to note that injuries as well as illness that are diagnosed within 1 year of separation from active duty will be presumed to be service connected. It is very important to file your for benefits if you feel you were injured as a result of service or your preexisting injury was aggravated as soon possible. Waiting to file could complicate as well as prolong the possible awarding of benefits.
Please be aware that if your application is received within the year you are separated from the military, your benefits will start the day after you are separated. For example, if you file for VA Disability Compensation 11 months after separation, if awarded benefits, you will receive "back pay" for the entire 11 months. However, if you wait to file after the year you are released, not only will you have to prove service connection, your benefit amount will start when you filed your claim. Since it can take 18 months or more to receive any benefit, I would encourage you to file as soon as possible.
To be eligible for Disability Compensation, the service of the veteran must have been terminated through separation or discharge under conditions other than dishonorable. For more details visit the VA Web site.
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