{"id":17888,"date":"2021-04-06T11:15:36","date_gmt":"2021-04-06T15:15:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/?page_id=17888"},"modified":"2025-12-18T18:49:21","modified_gmt":"2025-12-18T23:49:21","slug":"disability","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/disability\/","title":{"rendered":"VA Disability Benefits"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2>What Are Mesothelioma VA Disability Claims?<\/h2>\n<p>Mesothelioma VA disability claims allow veterans harmed by asbestos during their service to get tax-free monthly benefits that help cover medical costs and living expenses.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/mesothelioma\/\">Mesothelioma<\/a> is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the lining of certain organs. It\u2019s caused by asbestos, and symptoms typically don\u2019t start until 10-50 years after exposure. From the 1930s to the early 1980s, every branch of the U.S. military used asbestos in ships, vehicles, buildings, and equipment without knowing the health risks.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re a married <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/\">veteran with mesothelioma<\/a>, you may be eligible to receive $4,158.17 per month in disability benefits. This adds up to <strong>over $49,000 per year<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Money from mesothelioma VA disability claims can:<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Help cover medical expenses<\/li>\n<li>Make up for lost income<\/li>\n<li>Reduce financial stress for your family<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The VA rates disabilities between 10% to 100% based on how severe it is. <strong>Mesothelioma cancer almost always qualifies for a 100% disability rating,<\/strong> meaning veterans can get the highest payouts possible.<\/p>\n<p>Our team can help you file a claim for disability or increase your current disability rating after a mesothelioma diagnosis. Download our <strong>Free Veterans Compensation Guide<\/strong> to learn more.<\/p>\n<div data-vqueid=\"18414\" class=\"widget widget_oscar-vque default-alt image-left has-img\"><style type=\"text\/css\" data-style=\"default-alt\">.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt{margin:60px auto;max-width:315px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt:first-child{margin-top:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a{background:#100134;display:block;padding:20px;border-radius:10px;color:#fff;text-decoration:none}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt img{margin:0 auto 20px;max-width:150px;width:100%}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt .image-fade{position:relative}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt .image-fade img{position:relative;z-index:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt .image-fade:after{content:\"\";background:#100134;background:linear-gradient(0deg, #100134 0%, rgba(16,1,52,0) 100%);filter:progid:DXImageTransform.Microsoft.gradient(startColorstr=\"#100134\",endColorstr=\"#100134\",GradientType=1);position:absolute;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;height:50px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt .vque-content{font-size:16px;text-align:center}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.subheading{display:block;line-height:1;font-size:14px;margin-bottom:5px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.heading{font-size:20px;display:block;margin:0 0 25px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt ul{font-size:16px;text-align:left;list-style:none;max-width:265px;line-height:1.4;margin:15px auto 25px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt ul li{padding-left:28px;margin-bottom:10px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt ul li:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt ul li:before{font-family:\"mesohope\" !important;font-display:swap;speak:none;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;font-variant:normal;text-transform:none;line-height:1;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;content:\"\\e904\";border:none;position:absolute;left:0;top:0px;background:#0FAEBF;width:20px;height:20px;border-radius:20px;line-height:20px;text-align:center;font-size:12px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.button.arrow{width:100%}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt{max-width:620px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a{padding:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a>div{display:block;display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;flex-direction:row-reverse}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a>div img{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a>div>div{padding:0 25px 0 0;width:41%}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a .vque-content{width:59%;padding:30px;text-align:left}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt img{max-width:100%}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.subheading{font-size:16px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.heading{font-size:24px;margin:0 0 16px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt ul{max-width:none}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.button.arrow{width:auto}}<\/style><a href=\"\/veterans-guide\/\" title=\"Veterans Compensation\u00a0Guide\" class=\"cte\" data-ce-category=\"In-Content Ads\" data-ce-label=\"Veterans Compensation\u00a0Guide Ad\" data-desktop-image=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/veterans-compensation-guide-ipad.png\"><div><div><div class=\"image-fade\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"236\" height=\"230\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/veterans-compensation-guide-ipad.png\" class=\"attachment-Medium size-Medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"Mesothelioma veteran support guide\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/veterans-compensation-guide-ipad.png 236w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/veterans-compensation-guide-ipad-55x55.png 55w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 236px) 100vw, 236px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vque-content\"><strong class=\"subheading\">Free Downloadable Guide<\/strong><strong class=\"heading\">Veterans Compensation\u00a0Guide<\/strong><ul>\n<li>File for VA benefits<\/li>\n<li>Increase your disability rating<\/li>\n<li>Receive legal compensation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong class=\"button arrow\" title=\"Get Your Free Guide\">Get Your Free Guide<\/strong><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<h2>2026 Mesothelioma VA Disability Rates<\/h2>\n<p>The amount you receive through VA disability for mesothelioma depends on your marital status and number of dependents (if any). Here\u2019s what the monthly payments look like in 2026 for veterans rated at 100%:<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-wrap \">\n<table id=\"tablepress-98\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-98\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Dependent Status<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Monthly Compensation<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Single Veteran<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$3,831.30<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Married Veteran<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$4,044.91<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Spouse + One Child<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$4,201.35<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Each Additional Child Under 18<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">+$106.14<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Spouse Needs Extra Care (A&amp;A)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">+$195.92<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div><!-- #tablepress-98 from cache -->\n<p>Filing mesothelioma disability claims can provide a <strong>reliable source of monthly income<\/strong> to help offset the high cost of treatment and out-of-pocket expenses.<\/p>\n<p>Our team can help you track down your service records, job history, and anything else needed to file your VA mesothelioma disability claim. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/about\/contact\/\">Contact us today to get started<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>How to Qualify for Mesothelioma VA Disability<\/h2>\n<p>If you served in the military and now have mesothelioma, there\u2019s a good chance you qualify for VA disability and other <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/\">veterans benefits<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>When reviewing mesothelioma disability claims, the VA looks for:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A confirmed diagnosis of mesothelioma<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"\/asbestos\/exposure\/\">Exposure to asbestos<\/a> during active-duty service<\/li>\n<li>A discharge under honorable conditions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>There are no age or income limits, and <strong>it doesn\u2019t matter when you served<\/strong>. Even if your exposure happened decades ago, you can still qualify for mesothelioma veterans disability.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Surviving spouses and dependents<\/strong> don\u2019t qualify for disability, but they can apply for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/va-dependency-indemnity-compensation\">VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)<\/a> if their veteran family member passed away from service-related mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re eligible for disability, you may also qualify for free <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/va-healthcare\/\">VA health care<\/a> and other benefits. Download our <strong>Free Veterans Compensation Guide<\/strong> now to read more about your options.<\/p>\n<div data-vqueid=\"18414\" class=\"widget widget_oscar-vque default-alt image-left has-img\"><style type=\"text\/css\" data-style=\"default-alt\">.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt{margin:60px auto;max-width:315px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt:first-child{margin-top:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a{background:#100134;display:block;padding:20px;border-radius:10px;color:#fff;text-decoration:none}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt img{margin:0 auto 20px;max-width:150px;width:100%}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt .image-fade{position:relative}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt .image-fade img{position:relative;z-index:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt .image-fade:after{content:\"\";background:#100134;background:linear-gradient(0deg, #100134 0%, rgba(16,1,52,0) 100%);filter:progid:DXImageTransform.Microsoft.gradient(startColorstr=\"#100134\",endColorstr=\"#100134\",GradientType=1);position:absolute;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;height:50px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt .vque-content{font-size:16px;text-align:center}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.subheading{display:block;line-height:1;font-size:14px;margin-bottom:5px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.heading{font-size:20px;display:block;margin:0 0 25px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt ul{font-size:16px;text-align:left;list-style:none;max-width:265px;line-height:1.4;margin:15px auto 25px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt ul li{padding-left:28px;margin-bottom:10px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt ul li:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt ul li:before{font-family:\"mesohope\" !important;font-display:swap;speak:none;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;font-variant:normal;text-transform:none;line-height:1;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;content:\"\\e904\";border:none;position:absolute;left:0;top:0px;background:#0FAEBF;width:20px;height:20px;border-radius:20px;line-height:20px;text-align:center;font-size:12px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.button.arrow{width:100%}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt{max-width:620px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a{padding:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a>div{display:block;display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;flex-direction:row-reverse}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a>div img{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a>div>div{padding:0 25px 0 0;width:41%}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt>a .vque-content{width:59%;padding:30px;text-align:left}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt img{max-width:100%}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.subheading{font-size:16px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.heading{font-size:24px;margin:0 0 16px}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt ul{max-width:none}.widget_oscar-vque.default-alt strong.button.arrow{width:auto}}<\/style><a href=\"\/veterans-guide\/\" title=\"Veterans Compensation\u00a0Guide\" class=\"cte\" data-ce-category=\"In-Content Ads\" data-ce-label=\"Veterans Compensation\u00a0Guide Ad\" data-desktop-image=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/veterans-compensation-guide-ipad.png\"><div><div><div class=\"image-fade\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"236\" height=\"230\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/veterans-compensation-guide-ipad.png\" class=\"attachment-Medium size-Medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"Mesothelioma veteran support guide\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/veterans-compensation-guide-ipad.png 236w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/veterans-compensation-guide-ipad-55x55.png 55w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 236px) 100vw, 236px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vque-content\"><strong class=\"subheading\">Free Downloadable Guide<\/strong><strong class=\"heading\">Veterans Compensation\u00a0Guide<\/strong><ul>\n<li>File for VA benefits<\/li>\n<li>Increase your disability rating<\/li>\n<li>Receive legal compensation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong class=\"button arrow\" title=\"Get Your Free Guide\">Get Your Free Guide<\/strong><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<h2>Process to File Mesothelioma VA Disability Claims<\/h2>\n<p>Veterans who develop mesothelioma after military asbestos exposure deserve to be supported. Filing a mesothelioma VA disability claim is the first step toward financial security and reclaiming independence. Learn the steps to file below.<\/p>\n<h3>1. Notify the VA of Your Intent to File<\/h3>\n<p>The first step is to let the VA know you intend to file for disability. This starts the official timeline on your claim and protects your <strong>right to<\/strong> <strong>receive back pay<\/strong>. Submitting an intent to file gives you time to gather supporting documentation without losing out on compensation during this waiting period.<\/p>\n<h3>2. Choose Which Way To File<\/h3>\n<p>There are two ways to file your mesothelioma disability claim:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The first way is a <strong>standard claim<\/strong>, where the VA helps you gather the records and documents for your claim after it processes your application.<\/li>\n<li>The second option is a <strong>fully developed claim<\/strong>, where you collect all the supporting documents and send them to the VA as a complete package.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A fully developed mesothelioma disability claim takes more work up front, but will get reviewed by the VA more quickly.<\/p>\n<h3>3. Gather Relevant Documents<\/h3>\n<p>To file a successful claim, you need a formal mesothelioma diagnosis from a doctor. This diagnosis forms the foundation of your claim and must be documented in your VA records.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Other evidence for mesothelioma VA disability claims may include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A list of job sites you worked at during your military service (e.g., shipyards, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/navy\/ships\/\">Navy ships<\/a>, bases, barracks, vehicles)<\/li>\n<li>Military records showing when and where you served<\/li>\n<li>Written statement from a <a href=\"\/treatment\/doctors\/\">doctor<\/a> linking your diagnosis to military asbestos exposure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Mesothelioma Hope can help you gather these records and double-check that your application is complete before you file.<\/p>\n<div class=\"video-shortcode-container\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.video-shortcode-container{margin:40px 0;background:#F3F2F0;border-radius:15px;overflow:hidden;max-width:605px;font-size:16px}.video-shortcode-container:first-child{margin-top:0}.video-shortcode-container:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.video-shortcode-container>.youtube-video-place{background-size:cover;background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:center;border:1px solid #fff;height:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-bottom:55.77%;position:relative}.video-shortcode-container>.youtube-video-place iframe{height:100%;left:0;position:absolute;top:0;width:100%}.video-shortcode-container>.youtube-video-place img{margin:0;width:100%}.video-shortcode-container>.youtube-video-place button[type=button]{background:none;border-radius:0 !important;box-shadow:none;border:none;height:100%;left:0;outline:0;position:absolute;top:0;transition:all 0.25s ease-in-out;width:100%}.video-shortcode-container>.youtube-video-place button[type=button]:before{font-family:\"mesohope\" 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.header{font-size:18px;padding-bottom:30px;text-align:center;max-width:370px;margin:0 auto 30px;border-bottom:2px solid #0FAEBF;position:relative}.video-shortcode-container .what-next .header img{position:absolute;bottom:-17px;left:50%;transform:translateX(-50%);width:36px;height:36px;margin:0}.video-shortcode-container .what-next a{color:#fff;font-weight:700}.video-shortcode-container .what-next a:visited{color:#fff}.video-shortcode-container .what-next a:hover{text-decoration:none}.video-shortcode-container .what-next ol{list-style:decimal;margin-left:25px}.video-shortcode-container .what-next ol>li{margin-bottom:10px;padding-left:10px}.video-shortcode-container .what-next ol>li:before{display:none}.video-shortcode-container .what-next ol>li::marker{font-weight:700;color:#fff}@media screen and (min-width: 550px){.what-next{font-size:18px}.what-next .header{font-size:24px}}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.what-next{padding:50px 40px}.what-next .header{padding-bottom:35px;margin-bottom:50px}.what-next ol{column-count:2}.what-next ol>li{margin-bottom:25px}}<\/style><script defer type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/iframe_api\"><\/script><div class=\"what-next\" data-video-name=\"Mesothelioma VA Benefits for Veterans | Mesothelioma Hope\">\n\t\t\t        \t<div class=\"header\">\n\t\t\t        \t\t<strong>What would you like to do now?<\/strong>\n\t\t\t        \t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/MH-logo.png\" alt=\"Mesothelioma Hope Logo\" class=\"no-lazyload\" \/>\n\t\t\t        \t<\/div>\n\t\t\t        <\/div><div id=\"oscar-video-29860\" class=\"youtube-video-place embed-wrap-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Mesothelioma VA Benefits for Veterans | Mesothelioma Hope Video Thumbnail\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Mesothelioma-VA-Benefits-for-Veterans-603x337.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"603\" height=\"337\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Mesothelioma-VA-Benefits-for-Veterans-603x337.jpg\" alt=\"Mesothelioma VA Benefits for Veterans | Mesothelioma Hope Video Thumbnail\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" width=\"603\" height=\"337\" \/><\/noscript><button type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Youtube Video\" class=\"embed-play\" data-youtube-url=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/UFKnucQPW9k\" data-embed-id=\"UFKnucQPW9k\" data-video-category=\"veterans\" data-ce-category=\"Video\" data-ce-label=\"Play Button of Mesothelioma VA Benefits for Veterans | Mesothelioma Hope\"><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Play Video<\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"under-video-text\"><p>Major Jonathan Nelson (Ret) explains how veterans with mesothelioma can access key VA benefits, including VA disability compensation, VA health care, and travel reimbursement for treatment. <a href=\"#\" data-collapsed=\"true\" title=\"Click to read Mesothelioma VA Benefits for Veterans | Mesothelioma Hope transcript \" class=\"show-more\" data-ce-category=\"Video\" data-ce-label=\"Read Transcript of Mesothelioma VA Benefits for Veterans | Mesothelioma Hope\">View Transcript.<\/a><\/p><p class=\"duration\">Duration: <strong>1 min 10 sec<\/strong><\/p><div class=\"video-transcript\"><p>Mesothelioma treatment can be very expensive, and traveling to receive treatment can add even more financial strain. Fortunately, veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma are often eligible for VA disability benefits as well as VA health care. The VA may also provide travel reimbursement for care related to VA treatment.<\/p>\n<p>The VA is highly experienced in caring for veterans with mesothelioma. Because so many service members were exposed to asbestos during their military careers\u2014particularly between the 1930s and the 1980s\u2014the VA has had to become very knowledgeable in treating this disease.<\/p>\n<p>When a veteran is diagnosed with mesothelioma, a VA-accredited attorney can work alongside an attorney handling a lawsuit or a claim against asbestos trust funds. This coordinated approach helps ensure veterans pursue all available options for compensation.<\/p>\n<p>Mesothelioma Hope is here to help veterans and their families. We provide guidance, counseling, and support, and we want people to know we are on their side. We are ready to stand beside them throughout treatment and help them seek the financial compensation they are entitled to.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"see-more-videos\"><a href=\"\/video-library\/?cat=veterans\" data-ce-category=\"Video\" data-ce-label=\"See More - Mesothelioma VA Benefits for Veterans | Mesothelioma Hope\">See More Veterans Videos<\/a><\/div><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@graph\": [{\"@type\": \"VideoObject\", \"name\": \"Mesothelioma VA Benefits for Veterans | Mesothelioma Hope\", \"uploadDate\": \"2025-12-04T00:00:00-05:00\", \"thumbnail\": \"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Mesothelioma-VA-Benefits-for-Veterans.jpg\", \"thumbnailUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Mesothelioma-VA-Benefits-for-Veterans.jpg\", \"embedUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/UFKnucQPW9k\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=UFKnucQPW9k\", \"caption\": \"Major Jonathan Nelson (Ret) explains how veterans with mesothelioma can access key VA benefits, including VA disability compensation, VA health care, and travel reimbursement for treatment.\", \"description\": \"Major Jonathan Nelson (Ret) explains how veterans with mesothelioma can access key VA benefits, including VA disability compensation, VA health care, and travel reimbursement for treatment.\", \"transcript\": \"&lt;p&gt;Mesothelioma treatment can be very expensive, and traveling to receive treatment can add even more financial strain. Fortunately, veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma are often eligible for VA disability benefits as well as VA health care. The VA may also provide travel reimbursement for care related to VA treatment.&lt;\/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;The VA is highly experienced in caring for veterans with mesothelioma. Because so many service members were exposed to asbestos during their military careers\u2014particularly between the 1930s and the 1980s\u2014the VA has had to become very knowledgeable in treating this disease.&lt;\/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;When a veteran is diagnosed with mesothelioma, a VA-accredited attorney can work alongside an attorney handling a lawsuit or a claim against asbestos trust funds. This coordinated approach helps ensure veterans pursue all available options for compensation.&lt;\/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Mesothelioma Hope is here to help veterans and their families. We provide guidance, counseling, and support, and we want people to know we are on their side. We are ready to stand beside them throughout treatment and help them seek the financial compensation they are entitled to.&lt;\/p&gt; \",\"publisher\" : {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/#organization\"}}, {\"@type\": \"MediaObject\", \"thumbnailUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Mesothelioma-VA-Benefits-for-Veterans.jpg\", \"embedUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/UFKnucQPW9k\", \"uploadDate\": \"2025-12-04T00:00:00-05:00\", \"duration\": \"T01M10S\", \"startTime\": \"0:00\", \"endTime\": \"1:10\"}]}<\/script><\/div>\n<h3>4. Submit Your Claim &amp; Await VA Review<\/h3>\n<p>You\u2019ll provide needed documentation along with a completed VA Form 21-526EZ (Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Mesothelioma disability claims can be filed:<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>In person at your local VA office<\/li>\n<li>Online via the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ebenefits.va.gov\/\">VA\u2019s eBenefits portal<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Through an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Once your claim is submitted, the VA will review your service history, medical evidence, and supporting documents to determine if your mesothelioma is service-connected.<\/p>\n<h2>What Happens After You File for Mesothelioma Disability?<\/h2>\n<p>After the VA reviews your mesothelioma disability claim, you\u2019ll receive a decision by mail with your disability rating. The average <strong>review timeline ranges from 90 to 120 days<\/strong>, but you may qualify for <strong>expedited review<\/strong> due to the seriousness of your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/mesothelioma\/diagnosis\/\">mesothelioma diagnosis<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>If the VA approves your mesothelioma disability claim, <strong>your first payment is typically issued within 15 days<\/strong>. Payments are usually made through direct deposit to the bank account you provided during the application process. Along with this, you\u2019ll receive a notification detailing your monthly benefit and whether any retroactive back pay is owed based on your intent-to-file date.<\/p>\n<h3>What If You\u2019ve Been Denied?<\/h3>\n<p>If you have service-connected mesothelioma, it\u2018s very likely you\u2019ll be approved for 100% disability benefits. In the rare event your claim is denied or you\u2019re rated below 100%, you may still be eligible for compensation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Here\u2019s what you can do:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Appeal to the Board of Veterans\u2019 Appeals<\/li>\n<li>File a Supplemental Claim with new evidence<\/li>\n<li>Request a Higher-Level Review<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can <a href=\"\/veterans\/va-benefits\/disability\/appeal\/\">appeal the VA&#8217;s decision<\/a> as many times as needed, and our team can offer mesothelioma VA disability claim assistance to help you get your full benefits.<\/p>\n<h2>How Can I Use Money From Mesothelioma VA Disability Claims?<\/h2>\n<p>Once you begin receiving VA disability for mesothelioma, you can use your monthly benefits however you choose.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Compensation from a mesothelioma disability claim can help pay for:<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/p>\n<ul class='columns-2'>\n<li>Equipment like wheelchairs or oxygen tanks<\/li>\n<li>Home health care<\/li>\n<li>Meals and groceries<\/li>\n<li>Medications<\/li>\n<li>Monthly living expenses<\/li>\n<li>Physical therapy or rehabilitation<\/li>\n<li>Transportation or travel to appointments<\/li>\n<li>Mesothelioma treatment at a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/va-treatment-centers\/\">VA hospital<\/a><\/li>\n<li>And more<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\n<p>Mesothelioma disability claims payouts aren\u2019t taxed and <strong>don\u2019t need to be reported as income<\/strong> on your tax return.<\/p>\n<h2>Get 100% VA Disability for a Mesothelioma Diagnosis<\/h2>\n<p>Veterans who developed mesothelioma due to military asbestos exposure deserve full financial support from the VA. In 2026, this could mean <strong>over $49,000 annually<\/strong> in tax-free benefits.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Mesothelioma Hope can help veterans and families:<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Seek a 100% disability rating to maximize their compensation<\/li>\n<li>File a disability appeal or supplemental claim<\/li>\n<li>Get their disability claim processed faster<\/li>\n<li>Access <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/legal\/compensation\/\">additional legal compensation<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Call<strong> <a href=\"tel:+18666088933\" title=\"Click to call (866) 608-8933\" class=\"in-content-tel-link\" data-ce-category=\"Click to Call\" data-ce-label=\"(866) 608-8933\">(866) 608-8933<\/a> <\/strong>or download your <a href=\"\/veterans-guide\/\">Free Veterans Compensation Guide<\/a> to get started.<\/p>\n<div class=\"faq-wrap\"><h2 class=\"faq-wrap-heading\">Mesothelioma VA Disability Claims FAQs<\/h2><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"1\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">Does mesothelioma qualify for disability?<\/h3><div><p><strong>Yes. <\/strong>Mesothelioma is recognized by the VA as a <strong>service-connected disability<\/strong> if it can be linked to asbestos exposure during military service.<\/p>\n<p>Asbestos was widely used by the military in ships, shipyards, barracks, vehicles, and planes up until the 1980s. If you were exposed to asbestos during active duty and later developed mesothelioma, the VA recognizes this as a service-connected disability.<\/p>\n<p><strong>You do not have to prove when or how the asbestos exposure occurred<\/strong>, only that your military service likely caused or contributed to the illness.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"2\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What is the VA disability rating for mesothelioma?<\/h3><div><p>The VA gives mesothelioma a <strong>100% disability rating<\/strong>. This is the highest rating, which means the VA understands how serious this disease is.<\/p>\n<p><strong>With a 100% rating, you may receive:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The maximum monthly compensation, starting at $4,158.17 for 2026<\/li>\n<li>Free mesothelioma treatment through the VA<\/li>\n<li>Additional benefits like caregiver support, housing help, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/disability\/special-monthly-compensation\">Special Monthly Compensation<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Call our team at <strong><a href=\"tel:+18666088933\" title=\"Click to call (866) 608-8933\" class=\"in-content-tel-link\" data-ce-category=\"Click to Call\" data-ce-label=\"(866) 608-8933\">(866) 608-8933<\/a><\/strong> for free help with mesothelioma VA disability claims.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"3\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">Is mesothelioma a disability?<\/h3><div><p><strong>Yes<\/strong>, the VA considers mesothelioma a disability. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure.<\/p>\n<p>If your exposure occurred during military service, the VA considers this a service-connected disability, making you eligible for VA disability compensation and health care benefits.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"4\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">Can I get VA disability and legal compensation?<\/h3><div><p><strong>Yes<\/strong>, you can receive both VA disability benefits and legal compensation. Many veterans sue the companies that made or sold asbestos products to force them to take accountability for their negligence.<\/p>\n<p>Legal compensation through <a href=\"\/legal\/settlements\/\">mesothelioma settlements<\/a> and asbestos trust funds can provide significantly more financial support than VA benefits, with <strong>total payouts exceeding $1 million<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"5\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">Do I need a lawyer to file a mesothelioma VA claim?<\/h3><div><p>You don\u2019t have to hire a <a href=\"\/legal\/mesothelioma-lawyer\/\">mesothelioma lawyer<\/a> to file a disability claim, but it\u2019s strongly recommended. The VA claims process can be confusing, and having a lawyer with experience in mesothelioma disability claims can <strong>improve your chances of getting approved quickly <\/strong>and receiving the full benefits you&#8217;re entitled to.<\/p>\n<p>A skilled attorney can also help you pursue additional compensation from asbestos trust funds or <a href=\"\/legal\/lawsuit\/\">mesothelioma lawsuits<\/a> without affecting your VA benefits.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Need help getting started?<\/strong> Contact us today for a <a href=\"\/simmons-hanly-conroy\/\">free case review<\/a>. We&#8217;re here to guide you through the process and fight for the benefits you\u2019ve earned.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"Does mesothelioma qualify for disability?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Yes. &lt;\/strong&gt;Mesothelioma is recognized by the VA as a &lt;strong&gt;service-connected disability&lt;\/strong&gt; if it can be linked to asbestos exposure during military service.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Asbestos was widely used by the military in ships, shipyards, barracks, vehicles, and planes up until the 1980s. 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The VA claims process can be confusing, and having a lawyer with experience in mesothelioma disability claims can &lt;strong&gt;improve your chances of getting approved quickly &lt;\/strong&gt;and receiving the full benefits you&amp;#8217;re entitled to.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;A skilled attorney can also help you pursue additional compensation from asbestos trust funds or mesothelioma lawsuits without affecting your VA benefits.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Need help getting started?&lt;\/strong&gt; Contact us today for a free case review. We&amp;#8217;re here to guide you through the process and fight for the benefits you\u2019ve earned.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}}]}<\/script><style type=\"text\/css\">.faq-wrap{background:#E4F4F6;padding:20px 15px;margin:40px -15px}.faq-wrap:first-child{margin-top:0}.faq-wrap:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.faq-wrap .faq{background:#fff;padding:15px;border-radius:10px;box-shadow:0px 20px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.03);margin:15px 0 0 0}.faq-wrap .faq:first-child{margin-top:0}.faq-wrap .faq .faq-heading{color:#100134;font-size:21px;margin-bottom:15px}.faq-wrap .faq p{margin-bottom:20px;line-height:1.5}.faq-wrap .faq p:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more{color:#248AFF;display:block;padding-right:17px;text-align:right;position:relative;line-height:1}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:visited{color:#248AFF}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:visited:hover,.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:hover{color:#34d}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:after{font-family:\"mesohope\" !important;speak:none;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;font-variant:normal;text-transform:none;line-height:1;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;content:\"\\e905\";position:absolute;right:0;top:3px}h2.faq-wrap-heading{margin-bottom:25px}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.faq-wrap{padding:25px 15px}}@media screen and (min-width: 1024px){.faq-wrap{border-radius:10px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;padding:25px}.faq-wrap .faq{padding:25px}.faq-heading{font-size:24px}}<\/style><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What Are Mesothelioma VA Disability Claims? Mesothelioma VA disability claims allow veterans harmed by asbestos during their service to get tax-free monthly benefits that help cover medical costs and living expenses. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the lining of certain organs. It\u2019s caused by asbestos, and symptoms typically don\u2019t start&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":35,"featured_media":20432,"parent":905,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-17888","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/17888","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/35"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17888"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/17888\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/905"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20432"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17888"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}