Veterans who fall ill to asbestos and their families should not lose hope, as there are sufficient channels for getting assistance and receiving compensation. Actually, veterans may be able to file more than one asbestos claim.
Most veterans afflicted with asbestos-related diseases are entitled to disability compensation through the Department of Veteran Affairs, VA. Veterans should also know that they are eligible for VA disability compensation even if it has been decades since they were in the military. Another asbestos claim veterans can file is for payment from the asbestos trust funds.
Veterans diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses are entitled to the following disability compensation or pension benefits:
Surviving spouses and dependents may also qualify for dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) or survivor pension from VA.
The VA requires a detailed asbestos exposure statement with each claim, proving that a veteran actually was exposed to asbestos and that military exposure was at least a 50% contributing factor in developing an asbestos illness.
Because the burden of proof required by the asbestos trust funds is less stringent than that required by the VA, filing first an asbestos trust claim and having that claim accepted simplifies and expedites the process of filing a VA claim.
To accomplish this, we provide free asbestos screening and assistance in filing for VA benefits. We can assist you in detailing your entire work history and your exposure to asbestos in support of the claim.
Sometimes concerns and obstacles may keep you from filing a claim. But with the right help, it is much easier to qualify for and receive compensation benefits than you realize. At Asbestos Vets, we help veterans receive compensation from VA and asbestos trusts as a result of asbestos illnesses.