At Peña & Bromberg, we proudly serve veterans across California, helping you secure the disability benefits you’ve earned through your dedicated military service. Our experienced veteran disability lawyers understand the challenges veterans face when dealing with the VA and Veteran Disability Claim Denials. Whether you live in Fresno, Bakersfield, Stockton, or anywhere else in California, we’re committed to assisting you in obtaining the benefits you deserve. We at Peña & Bromberg are currently accepting veteran disability claim denials with no fee unless we win your case. Jonathan Peña has been accredited for 10 years, ensuring experienced representation and providing free case reviews.
What Is Veterans Disability Compensation?
Veterans disability compensation is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to veterans for injuries or illnesses sustained or worsened during military service. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides compensation based on the severity of your condition, rated from 10% to 100%. Importantly, these benefits cover not only conditions directly related to combat but also injuries or illnesses incurred during training, daily duties, or even conditions that worsened due to military service.
Conditions That Qualify for Veterans Disability Benefits
Veterans can claim benefits for numerous conditions, such as:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression
- Chronic diseases like arthritis, diabetes, and hypertension
- Neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals like Agent Orange or radiation
- Physical injuries including loss of limbs, back injuries, or hearing loss
- Gulf War syndrome and related undiagnosed illnesses
- Military sexual trauma (MST)
Even if you had a pre-existing condition that military service aggravated, you might still qualify. Peña & Bromberg can evaluate your unique circumstances and guide you through the process.
How to Apply for Veterans Disability Benefits in California
You have several options when applying for disability benefits:
- Online via the VA’s eBenefits portal
- Completing and mailing Form 21-526EZ
- Calling the VA directly at 1-800-827-1000 to receive forms by mail
To expedite your claim, active-duty members nearing discharge can utilize the Benefits Delivery at Discharge program. When filing your claim, you’ll need to provide essential documentation such as your discharge papers (DD214), medical records proving your condition, and details about any dependents you have.
California VA Statistics
California has one of the largest veteran populations in the nation, with over 1.8 million veterans calling the state home. As of recent data:
- Over 372,000 California veterans are receiving disability benefits.
- More than 755,000 veterans are enrolled in the VA healthcare system, with nearly half receiving treatment.
- Nearly 50% of California’s veterans are aged 65 or older, and many face unique challenges related to aging and service-connected disabilities.
These statistics highlight the importance of having skilled legal representation to ensure veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned.
How to Win a VA Disability Benefits Appeal
Winning a VA disability appeal requires proving two key elements:
- Current Diagnosis: You must have a diagnosed medical condition that causes disability.
- Service Connection: Your condition must be linked to an event, injury, or illness that occurred during your military service.
In some cases, the VA presumes service connection for certain conditions, such as those related to Agent Orange exposure or other toxic substances. If service connection is not presumed, we’ll work tirelessly to gather the evidence needed to prove your case. This may include:
- Military service records
- Medical treatment records
- Statements from your doctors
- Expert testimony
- Any other relevant evidence
Why Are Veteran Disability Claim Denials Common?
Veteran Disability Claim Denials are frequent due to the complex and meticulous nature of VA regulations. The VA requires precise documentation and clear evidence linking your disability to military service. Common reasons for claim denials include:
- Incorrect or incomplete forms
- Missing medical diagnoses from qualified professionals
- Conditions deemed unrelated to military service
- Suspicion of exaggerated claims or fraud
- Missed deadlines
Understanding these pitfalls is critical. Peña & Bromberg’s attorneys ensure your application is thorough, accurate, and aligned with VA requirements to prevent unnecessary denials.
How Peña & Bromberg’s Veteran Disability Lawyers Can Help
Navigating the VA system alone can be overwhelming. Our experienced California veteran disability lawyers can:
- Evaluate your case and eligibility for VA benefits
- Collect and organize critical medical evidence
- Secure detailed Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) from medical providers
- Submit your fully prepared claim to the VA
- Actively track your claim and address any additional VA requests promptly
- Appeal any Veteran Disability Claim Denials swiftly and effectively
Our goal is simple: help you obtain maximum benefits promptly, allowing you to focus on your health and recovery.
VA Disability Compensation Levels
The amount of VA disability compensation you receive depends on your combined disability rating. The VA uses a specific formula to calculate your rating, which determines your monthly benefits. As of December 1, 2024, the VA disability rates are as follows:
| Disability Rating | Monthly Compensation |
|---|---|
| 0% | $0.00 |
| 10% | $175.51 |
| 20% | $346.95 |
| 30% | $537.42 |
| 40% | $774.16 |
| 50% | $1,102.04 |
| 60% | $1,395.93 |
| 70% | $1,759.19 |
| 80% | $2,044.89 |
| 90% | $2,297.96 |
| 100% | $3,831.30 |
Veterans with a 30% rating or higher may also qualify for additional benefits for dependents, such as a spouse, children, or dependent parents.
Understanding Your VA Disability Rating
The VA assigns disability ratings ranging from 10% to 100%, reflecting the severity of your condition. Your monthly compensation corresponds directly to this rating. Regular cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) are applied annually, and our legal team helps ensure you understand exactly what your benefits entail.
Combining VA Disability Benefits with Social Security
Veterans often ask if they can receive both VA disability benefits and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). The answer is yes—these benefits are entirely independent.
How Military Service Credits Affect Social Security
Veterans also receive special consideration from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Your military service may increase the earnings credited to your SSA record, potentially boosting your monthly Social Security disability or retirement benefits.
Contact Peña & Bromberg for Veteran Disability Claim Assistance in California
If you’re facing a Veteran Disability Claim Denial or thinking about applying for veterans disability benefits, contact Peña & Bromberg today. Call us at 559-439-9700 or contact us today for a free case review. Peña & Bromberg has been accredited for over 10 years, and we accept Veteran Disability Claim Denials on a contingency basis—no fees unless we win your case. Let our experienced attorneys fight for the benefits you’ve earned.
