If you’re a veteran receiving VA benefits, you might assume you’re getting everything you’re entitled to. But what if you’re missing out on thousands of dollars in compensation simply because of overlooked details, incorrect ratings, or unclaimed benefits? Many veterans unknowingly leave money on the table, and the VA won’t tell you what you’re missing.
This guide will walk you through five key signs that indicate you might not be maximizing your VA benefits—and what you can do to fix it.
1. You Haven’t Filed for Secondary Conditions
Your primary disability might not be the only condition affecting your life. Many veterans qualify for additional compensation through secondary conditions—health issues caused or worsened by a service-connected disability.
Examples of Secondary Conditions:
- PTSD leading to sleep apnea or heart disease
- Knee injuries causing back or hip pain
- Diabetes leading to neuropathy or kidney disease
- Chronic pain contributing to depression or anxiety
Why Veterans Overlook This Benefit
Many veterans don’t realize that secondary conditions can be just as debilitating as their primary service-connected condition. They also assume that filing for additional benefits will complicate their case, when in reality, it can increase their overall rating and monthly compensation.
Solution: Review your medical records and discuss potential secondary conditions with a VA disability lawyer or medical professional. Filing for secondary service connection can significantly increase your overall rating.
2. You Accepted a Low Disability Rating Without Appealing
Did the VA approve your claim but assign you a low disability percentage? Many veterans accept these ratings without realizing they can challenge them. A 30% rating instead of 50% or 50% instead of 70% can mean a difference of hundreds or thousands of dollars per month.
How the VA Assigns Ratings
The VA uses a schedule of ratings based on medical evidence, but often assigns conservative ratings unless clear medical documentation supports a higher percentage. If you didn’t provide sufficient evidence or the VA examiner underestimated your condition, you could be receiving less than you deserve.
Solution: If your symptoms are worse than what your rating reflects, consider filing for an increased rating claim or an appeal with stronger medical evidence. Get an independent medical exam (IME) to support your case and ensure you receive the rating that accurately reflects your condition.
3. You Haven’t Applied for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU)
If your service-connected conditions prevent you from maintaining steady work, you might qualify for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU), which pays at the 100% disability rate even if your combined rating is below 100%.
Who Qualifies for TDIU?
- Veterans with one disability rated at 60% or higher
- Veterans with two or more disabilities totaling 70% or more, with one rated at least 40%
- Those unable to maintain substantially gainful employment due to service-connected conditions
Common Misconceptions About TDIU:
- You don’t have to be completely unemployed—just unable to maintain substantially gainful employment.
- You can still work in limited or part-time capacities, depending on income.
- Many veterans assume TDIU is impossible to get when in reality, legal representation improves your approval odds significantly.
Solution: If your conditions prevent full-time work, speak to a VA-accredited lawyer about applying for TDIU. Gather documentation from your doctor and past employers to support your claim.
4. You Haven’t Checked for Retroactive Pay
Many veterans don’t realize they might be owed thousands in back pay if the VA made a mistake in their effective date or if their condition has worsened over time.
Situations Where You Might Qualify for Back Pay:
- The VA wrongfully denied your claim in the past.
- You received an incorrect rating and later got it increased.
- Your effective date was set incorrectly, reducing your owed benefits.
How VA Back Pay Works
The VA assigns an effective date to every claim. If the VA sets your date too late, you may lose months or years of benefits you should have received.
Solution: Request a review of your claim history to ensure your effective date is correct and determine if you’re owed any retroactive compensation. If you appealed a past decision and won, your back pay could be substantial.
5. You’re Not Receiving Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) provides additional compensation for veterans with severe disabilities, such as:
- Loss of use of a limb
- Severe mobility issues requiring aid and attendance
- Need for a caregiver
- Blindness or severe vision impairment
How Much Extra Money Can You Get with SMC?
The amount depends on your level of disability and whether you need assistance with daily living activities. Some veterans qualify for an additional $1,000 to $5,000 per month.
Solution: If you have severe disabilities that impact daily living, check your eligibility for SMC and apply for the correct category of compensation.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget Dependent Benefits
If you have a spouse, children, or dependent parents, you may be eligible for additional monthly compensation through Dependent Benefits. Veterans with a rating of 30% or higher can receive extra benefits for dependents, yet many fail to claim them.
Solution: Check your VA award letter to ensure you’re receiving dependent benefits and update your records if you’ve had a life change (marriage, new child, divorce, etc.).
FAQ: Additional Questions About Maximizing VA Benefits
1. Can I receive VA disability benefits while working a full-time job?
Yes! Many veterans receive VA disability benefits while working. The only exception is Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU), which limits how much you can earn while still qualifying. If you have a disability rating but can still maintain employment, your benefits will not be affected.
2. What happens if my condition worsens after I’ve already been rated?
If your service-connected disability has worsened, you can file for a rating increase at any time. You’ll need updated medical evidence showing that your condition has deteriorated and how it affects your daily life. Keep in mind that some claims result in re-evaluations, so having strong documentation is crucial.
3. Does the VA offer additional benefits beyond disability compensation?
Yes! In addition to monthly compensation, the VA offers housing grants, education benefits, caregiver support, and even vocational rehabilitation programs. Many veterans don’t realize they qualify for VA healthcare, property tax exemptions, or adaptive housing assistance—all of which can provide significant financial relief.
Don’t Leave Money on the Table
The VA system is complex, and veterans often don’t receive the full compensation they’re entitled to simply because they don’t know their rights. If you recognize any of these five signs, it’s time to take action.
Need Help? Unruh Law specializes in helping veterans maximize their VA benefits. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s ensure you’re getting every dollar you deserve!