Veterans make up a considerable number of mesothelioma cases annually. Due to the prolonged use of asbestos-containing products in military housing, aircraft, battleships, and more, veterans have long faced an increased risk of toxic asbestos exposure while serving their country. From the 1930s to the 1970s, the Navy used enormous amounts of asbestos insulation and fireproofing products on warships and submarines. This released a large number of asbestos fibers into the air. Anyone working in or walking through the area would have inhaled the toxic fibers.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides compensation, benefits and assistance programs to those diagnosed with mesothelioma due to their service in the U.S. Military. Assistance may also be available for veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure outside of their time in service and surviving loved ones of veterans who passed away due to the disease.
A monthly tax-free payment to veterans who became sick or injured during their time in service, or whose pre-existing condition was made worse due to their time in service.
An additional tax-free monetary benefit provided to the surviving spouse, child or parent of a veteran who died from a service-related disability, like mesothelioma.
Claims processing can take time. Therefore, it is highly recommended that veterans and their loved ones start the filing process soon after diagnosis. At Vogelzang Law, we will file the claim on your behalf. To file a VA claim, you or your loved ones must meet these eligibility requirements:
To receive VA benefits for a mesothelioma diagnosis, veterans have to provide proof that their asbestos exposure occurred primarily during service. Vogelzang Law will assist veterans or their surviving loved ones in writing a letter detailing their military experience and asbestos exposure. They must also provide details regarding their civilian jobs before and after service. File your claim today with one of our licensed attorneys.
Veterans may be eligible for VA disability compensation for chronic illnesses like mesothelioma, which are considered 100% disabling. Monthly maximum benefits have increased as of December 2021. Veterans may receive up to $3,332 (increase from $3,146) if single and up to $3,517 if married. Benefits may increase depending on the number of dependents a veteran claims.
For deaths caused by mesothelioma, the benefit has increased as of December 2021 from $1,357 to $1,437. Eligibility for additional benefits is contingent upon select circumstances. Despite actively receiving other benefits due to your loved one’s mesothelioma diagnosis, you will have to apply for dependency and indemnity compensation separately should they die.