{"id":53,"date":"2017-05-06T23:11:14","date_gmt":"2017-05-07T03:11:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/?page_id=53"},"modified":"2025-12-15T09:21:05","modified_gmt":"2025-12-15T14:21:05","slug":"veterans","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/","title":{"rendered":"Veterans"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2>Why Do Veterans Get Mesothelioma?<\/h2>\n<p>Veterans get mesothelioma because the military used <strong>asbestos in ships, buildings, vehicles, and other equipment<\/strong> until the early 1980s without knowing it was dangerous.<\/p>\n<div class=\"infographic-shortcode-container\" id=\"infographic-27339\"><div class=\"callout-infographic\">\r\n<div class=\"large\">\r\nAsbestos product manufacturers <strong>knew about the health risks for decades<\/strong> but chose not to warn the military or the public so they could keep making money.<\/strong>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.callout-infographic{background:#EDF8F9;border-radius:0 10px 10px 0;padding:20px 20px 20px 24px;position:relative;font-size:14px;line-height:18px;max-width:315px;margin-bottom:30px}.callout-infographic:before{content:\" \";position:absolute;top:0;bottom:0;width:4px;height:100%;left:0;background:linear-gradient(180deg,#0FAEBF 0,#EDF8F9 100%)}.callout-infographic .large{font-size:18px;line-height:26px;margin-bottom:10px}@media screen and (min-width:768px){.callout-infographic{margin-bottom:0;margin-left:30px;float:right}}<\/style><\/div>\n<p>Military veterans who worked with asbestos-containing products unknowingly breathed in and swallowed asbestos fibers, which can cause <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/mesothelioma\/\">mesothelioma<\/a> later in life.<\/p>\n<p>If you or a loved one is a mesothelioma veteran, you may qualify for disability benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). You may also be able to file private legal claims to get compensation for treatment and secure your family\u2019s financial future.<\/p>\n<p>Download our <strong>Free Veterans Compensation Guide<\/strong> to learn more about your options and see if you qualify for mesothelioma payouts.<\/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>Where Were Mesothelioma Veterans Exposed to Asbestos?<\/h2>\n<p>All five branches of the military used <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/asbestos\/\">asbestos<\/a> for much of the 20th century:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/air-force\/\"><strong>U.S. Air Force<\/strong><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> Pilots, mechanics, and crew members like gunners may have been frequently exposed to asbestos.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/army\/\"><strong>U.S. Army<\/strong><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> Asbestos could be found in U.S. Army vehicle parts like gaskets and brake pads and construction materials such as insulation and paint used to build barracks and bases.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/coast-guard\/\"><strong>U.S. Coast Guard<\/strong><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> Those who worked on ships or in Coast Guard shipyards had a very high risk of exposure since many vessels contained asbestos.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/marines\/\"><strong>U.S. Marine Corps<\/strong><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> Marines may have been exposed to asbestos from Air Force planes, bases, Navy ships, and vehicles.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/navy\/\"><strong>U.S. Navy<\/strong><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> Almost every Navy ship was built with asbestos-containing products to keep them fireproof and resistant to corrosion. Navy shipyard workers also ran a high risk of exposure.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>It wasn\u2019t until the early 1980s that steps were taken to remove asbestos from military bases, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/navy\/ships\/\">naval ships<\/a>, and vehicles.<\/p>\n<h3>Secondary Asbestos Exposure in Military Families<\/h3>\n<p>Family members of military personnel may have also been put at risk through <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/asbestos\/exposure\/secondary\/\">secondary asbestos exposure<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>When service members came home after working with or around asbestos products, microscopic fibers could cling to their hair and clothes, spreading to spouses and children through hugs, furniture, or laundry.<\/p>\n<p>Over time, this secondary exposure can cause mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.<\/p>\n<div class=\"video-shortcode-container\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.video-shortcode-container{margin:40px 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.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=\"Meet Major J.N. Nelson, USMC (Ret), Mesothelioma Veterans Advocate\">\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-29471\" class=\"youtube-video-place embed-wrap-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Meet Major J.N. Nelson, USMC (Ret), Mesothelioma Veterans Advocate Video Thumbnail\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/retired-major-nelson-thumb-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\/10\/retired-major-nelson-thumb-603x337.jpg\" alt=\"Meet Major J.N. Nelson, USMC (Ret), Mesothelioma Veterans Advocate 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\/kThxI7H6WME\" data-embed-id=\"kThxI7H6WME\" data-video-category=\"veterans\" data-ce-category=\"Video\" data-ce-label=\"Play Button of Meet Major J.N. Nelson, USMC (Ret), Mesothelioma Veterans Advocate\"><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Play Video<\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"under-video-text\"><p>Major Nelson is a retired U.S. Marine Corps major and VA-accredited attorney at Mesothelioma Hope. He helps veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma receive the VA benefits they may be entitled to.  <a href=\"#\" data-collapsed=\"true\" title=\"Click to read Meet Major J.N. Nelson, USMC (Ret), Mesothelioma Veterans Advocate transcript \" class=\"show-more\" data-ce-category=\"Video\" data-ce-label=\"Read Transcript of Meet Major J.N. Nelson, USMC (Ret), Mesothelioma Veterans Advocate\">View Transcript.<\/a><\/p><p class=\"duration\">Duration: <strong>1 min 58 sec<\/strong><\/p><div class=\"video-transcript\"><p>My name is Jonathan Nelson. I am a VA-accredited attorney working with Mesothelioma Hope. I am here to help veterans. I wanted to provide for people who had served their country, protected their country, fought in wars on our behalf, and now are diagnosed with a cancer that, for many of them, was caused by their active-duty service itself. I want to make sure that they have the opportunity to get the benefits they need and are entitled to, and to ensure their families are provided for in the future.<\/p>\n<p>I was in the United States Marine Corps for 15 years. I served as a judge advocate and worked as a prosecutor, defense counsel, and instructor at the Naval Justice School. I also handled appellate government law and served as the staff judge advocate for the Second Marine Division in North Carolina for a couple of years.<\/p>\n<p>When a veteran has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, they need to know there\u2019s support for them. We are able to provide medical information, connect them with good doctors and hospitals, and offer mental and spiritual support as well. Companies that have gone bankrupt due to asbestos litigation have paid into trust funds\u2014money set aside for people diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.<\/p>\n<p>There\u2019s currently over $30 billion available for people who have mesothelioma. This means that if you\u2019ve been diagnosed, you may be able to file a claim for some of that money. We also help veterans file for VA disability benefits and guide them on the right path to make sure their families are cared for, even when they\u2019re no longer able to do so themselves.<\/p>\n<p>I like to help veterans who have fought for our country and served our country. I have a great deal of respect for those individuals, and I\u2019m here to make sure they get the help and benefits they deserve.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"see-more-videos\"><a href=\"\/video-library\/?cat=veterans\" data-ce-category=\"Video\" data-ce-label=\"See More - Meet Major J.N. Nelson, USMC (Ret), Mesothelioma Veterans Advocate\">See More Veterans Videos<\/a><\/div><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@graph\": [{\"@type\": \"VideoObject\", \"name\": \"Meet Major J.N. Nelson, USMC (Ret), Mesothelioma Veterans Advocate\", \"uploadDate\": \"2025-10-22T00:00:00-04:00\", \"thumbnail\": \"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/retired-major-nelson-thumb.jpg\", \"thumbnailUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/retired-major-nelson-thumb.jpg\", \"embedUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/kThxI7H6WME\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=kThxI7H6WME\", \"caption\": \"Major Nelson is a retired U.S. Marine Corps major and VA-accredited attorney at Mesothelioma Hope. He helps veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma receive the VA benefits they may be entitled to. \", \"description\": \"Major Nelson is a retired U.S. Marine Corps major and VA-accredited attorney at Mesothelioma Hope. He helps veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma receive the VA benefits they may be entitled to. \", \"transcript\": \"&lt;p&gt;My name is Jonathan Nelson. I am a VA-accredited attorney working with Mesothelioma Hope. I am here to help veterans. I wanted to provide for people who had served their country, protected their country, fought in wars on our behalf, and now are diagnosed with a cancer that, for many of them, was caused by their active-duty service itself. I want to make sure that they have the opportunity to get the benefits they need and are entitled to, and to ensure their families are provided for in the future.&lt;\/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;I was in the United States Marine Corps for 15 years. I served as a judge advocate and worked as a prosecutor, defense counsel, and instructor at the Naval Justice School. I also handled appellate government law and served as the staff judge advocate for the Second Marine Division in North Carolina for a couple of years.&lt;\/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;When a veteran has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, they need to know there\u2019s support for them. We are able to provide medical information, connect them with good doctors and hospitals, and offer mental and spiritual support as well. Companies that have gone bankrupt due to asbestos litigation have paid into trust funds\u2014money set aside for people diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.&lt;\/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;There\u2019s currently over $30 billion available for people who have mesothelioma. This means that if you\u2019ve been diagnosed, you may be able to file a claim for some of that money. We also help veterans file for VA disability benefits and guide them on the right path to make sure their families are cared for, even when they\u2019re no longer able to do so themselves.&lt;\/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;I like to help veterans who have fought for our country and served our country. I have a great deal of respect for those individuals, and I\u2019m here to make sure they get the help and benefits they deserve.&lt;\/p&gt; \",\"publisher\" : {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/#organization\"}}, {\"@type\": \"MediaObject\", \"thumbnailUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/retired-major-nelson-thumb.jpg\", \"embedUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/kThxI7H6WME\", \"uploadDate\": \"2025-10-22T00:00:00-04:00\", \"duration\": \"T01M58S\", \"startTime\": \"0:00\", \"endTime\": \"1:58\"}]}<\/script><\/div>\n<h2>Mesothelioma Veterans Benefits<\/h2>\n<p>If you qualify for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/\">mesothelioma veterans benefits<\/a>, you could receive free or low-cost medical treatment, monthly disability compensation, and additional support to make life easier for you and your family.<\/p>\n<h3>VA Disability Compensation<\/h3>\n<p>VA disability compensation is a <strong>tax-free<\/strong> monthly payment for veterans with service-connected illnesses. The amount you receive depends on your disability rating, and there are no income or employment restrictions.<\/p>\n<p>The VA considers mesothelioma a total disability, so veterans with this cancer are eligible for the highest rating (100%). For 2026, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/disability\/\"><strong>disability compensation<\/strong><\/a> pays<strong> $4,158.17 per month<\/strong> to married veterans with mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019ve recently been diagnosed with mesothelioma but aren\u2019t receiving the full disability amount, <strong>you may qualify for a rate increase<\/strong>. Many veterans initially receive a lower rating due to an earlier, less severe illness.<\/p>\n<div class=\"simple-cta border\"><div><style type=\"text\/css\">.simple-cta{margin:30px 0;position:relative}.simple-cta:before{content:\" \";position:absolute;top:0;bottom:0;width:4px;height:100%;left:0;background:linear-gradient(180deg, #0FAEBF 0%, #fff 100%)}.simple-cta>div{width:100%}.simple-cta.border>div{padding:0 0 0 24px}.simple-cta.solid:before{background:linear-gradient(180deg, #0FAEBF 0%, #EDF8F9 100%)}.simple-cta.solid>div{background:#EDF8F9;border-radius:0 10px 10px 0;padding:20px 20px 20px 24px}.simple-cta:first-child{margin-top:0}.simple-cta:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.simple-cta .heading{display:block;margin-bottom:5px}.simple-cta a[href*=\"tel\"]{display:inline-block}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.simple-cta{text-align:center}.simple-cta>div{display:inline-block;margin:0 auto;text-align:left}}<\/style><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/about\/contact\/\">Contact our team today<\/a> for free help applying for disability or increasing your existing VA benefits.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h3>VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)<\/h3>\n<p>Veterans with service-connected mesothelioma whose daily activities are significantly impacted may qualify for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/disability\/special-monthly-compensation\/\">Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)<\/a>. This is an extension of the VA\u2019s standard disability benefits package that is also offered to spouses of eligible veterans.<\/p>\n<p>The VA awards SMC based on how your illness affects your daily life, including whether you need help with personal care or daily tasks.<\/p>\n<p>For 2026, veterans can get <strong>$139.87 to $$11,271.67 per month <\/strong>depending on:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Their number of dependents<\/li>\n<li>The severity of their symptoms<\/li>\n<li>Whether they\u2019re housebound, need daily assistance, or are in hospice care<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Since mesothelioma is usually rated at 100% disability, many veterans automatically qualify for SMC-S (Housebound Benefits) if they don\u2019t leave their homes regularly.<\/p>\n<h3>VA Aid &amp; Attendance (A&amp;A)<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/aid-attendance\/\">Aid &amp; Attendance (A&amp;A<\/a>) is an additional monthly payment for veterans receiving a VA pension who need help with daily activities because of mesothelioma or another service-connected illness.<\/p>\n<p><strong>You may qualify for A&amp;A benefits if you:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Are bedridden due to your condition<\/li>\n<li>Have severely limited vision (5\/200 or worse in both eyes)<\/li>\n<li>Live in a nursing home due to disability<\/li>\n<li>Require assistance with dressing, bathing, or eating<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Veterans with mesothelioma who qualify for a VA pension and A&amp;A can get<strong> $33,548 a year <\/strong>as of 2025. Since mesothelioma is a severe and often debilitating condition, many veterans get A&amp;A to cover the costs of home care, assisted living, or nursing home expenses.<\/p>\n<h3>VA Pensions<\/h3>\n<p>To get a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/pension\/\">VA pension<\/a>, you must have served on active duty during wartime, meet specific income requirements, and be permanently and totally disabled.<\/p>\n<p>The net worth limit for 2025 is <strong>$159,240<\/strong>, which includes your and your dependents\u2019 assets and income. Veterans with higher incomes may still qualify for a VA pension if they have significant medical expenses.<\/p>\n<p>Monthly pension amounts are calculated by the VA based on the difference between your income and the Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR) set by Congress.<\/p>\n<p>Veterans with mesothelioma who qualify for a pension may also be able to receive monthly Aid &amp; Attendance benefits if they\u2019re unable to care for themselves.<\/p>\n<h3>VA Survivors Benefits<\/h3>\n<p>Surviving spouses and dependent children of mesothelioma veterans can apply for tax-free benefits from the VA.<\/p>\n<p><strong>These include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/burial\/\">Burial benefits<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/va-dependency-indemnity-compensation\/\">Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/pension\/survivors-death\/\">Survivors pensions<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Download our <strong>Free Veterans Compensation Guide <\/strong>to learn more about the full range of benefits available to you and your family.<\/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>What Do I Need to File for Mesothelioma Veterans Benefits?<\/h2>\n<p>You may need the following to file for mesothelioma veterans benefits:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A letter from a doctor describing the link between your mesothelioma diagnosis and your military service (also known as a nexus letter)<\/li>\n<li>Medical records confirming your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/mesothelioma\/diagnosis\/\">mesothelioma diagnosis<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Military service records<\/li>\n<li>Proof that you were not dishonorably charged (DD214 or other separation documents)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Our team can help you gather all the necessary documents to file for veterans mesothelioma benefits. Give us a call 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> to get started.<\/p>\n<h2>Compensation Options for Mesothelioma and Veterans<\/h2>\n<p>Along with VA benefits, you may be able to seek financial support from asbestos trust funds and lawsuit settlements. Most veterans with mesothelioma receive <strong>over $1 million<\/strong> on average in legal compensation, with no action taken against the military or government.<\/p>\n<h3>Asbestos Trust Fund Payouts<\/h3>\n<p>Veterans with mesothelioma may be able to access some of the <strong>$30+ billion<\/strong> <strong>already set aside <\/strong>in asbestos trust funds.<\/p>\n<p>Asbestos companies that filed for bankruptcy were ordered to create <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/legal\/asbestos-trust-funds\/\">mesothelioma trust funds<\/a> to compensate people harmed by their products. Most mesothelioma veterans are eligible to file claims with multiple trusts and <strong>start receiving payouts, typically in 90 days or less<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>A qualified <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/legal\/mesothelioma-lawyer\/\">mesothelioma lawyer<\/a> can confirm whether you qualify for trust fund compensation and file claims without you having to appear in court.<\/p>\n<div class=\"blockquote-w-image \"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Art-Putt-Headshot-Small.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><blockquote><p>&#8220;We gave that money to our kids, paid all their debts off, paid our house off, and made our life a little easier because <strong>we had<\/strong> <b>no financial worries<\/b>.&#8221;<\/p>\n<footer>&ndash;<cite> Art Putt, U.S. Army &amp; Air Force veteran &amp; mesothelioma survivor<\/cite><\/footer><\/blockquote><style type=\"text\/css\">.blockquote-w-image{position:relative;margin:40px auto}.blockquote-w-image blockquote{background:none;border-left:none;padding:25px;margin-top:0;padding-bottom:0;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.blockquote-w-image blockquote footer cite{font-size:inherit}.blockquote-w-image blockquote p{margin-bottom:0}.blockquote-w-image img{width:100px;border:none;border-radius:100%;box-shadow:none;position:relative;margin:0 auto}.blockquote-w-image.alternative{margin:60px auto}.blockquote-w-image.alternative blockquote{padding:25px 25px 25px 80px;padding-bottom:25px;background-color:#E4F4F6}.blockquote-w-image.alternative img{position:absolute;left:20px;top:25px;z-index:1;width:50px;border:1px solid #fff;box-shadow:0 0 10px rgba(34,34,34,0.2);border-radius:100%}.blockquote-w-image.with-border{background:none;border-left:4px solid #0FAEBF}.blockquote-w-image.with-border blockquote{background:none;border-radius:0;padding:10px 25px}.blockquote-w-image.with-border blockquote footer cite{font-size:inherit}.blockquote-w-image blockquote:before{display:none}@media screen and (min-width: 769px){.blockquote-w-image img{position:absolute;left:0;top:0}.blockquote-w-image blockquote{padding:0 25px 0 125px;min-height:90px}}@media screen and (min-width: 1024px){.blockquote-w-image.alternative blockquote{padding-left:105px}.blockquote-w-image.alternative blockquote footer cite{font-size:16px}.entry-content .blockquote-w-image.alternative img{width:60px;left:25px}}<\/style><\/div>\n<h3>Mesothelioma Settlements and Verdicts<\/h3>\n<p>In addition to filing asbestos trust fund claims, veterans may be able to file a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/legal\/lawsuit\/\">mesothelioma lawsuit<\/a> against the companies responsible for their illness.<\/p>\n<p>Most mesothelioma lawsuits end in out-of-court settlements averaging <strong>$1 million to $1.4 million<\/strong>. However, some veterans have received significantly higher payouts from trial verdicts.<\/p>\n<p>Notable <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/legal\/settlements\/\"><strong>lawsuit payouts<\/strong><\/a> for veterans and their families include:<\/p>\n<div class=\"amounts-wrap no-top-margin\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>$40 million<\/strong> <span>for a U.S. Navy veteran in Washington<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong>$5 million<\/strong> <span>for an Air Force veteran &amp; roofer in Florida<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong>$4.3 million<\/strong> <span>for a Florida boilermaker &amp; U.S. Army veteran<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong>$4.25 million<\/strong> <span>for a welder &amp; Air Force veteran from Indiana<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong>$3.9 million<\/strong> <span>for a Maryland Army veteran and painter<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong>$3.3 million<\/strong> <span>for the family of a U.S. Marine veteran in Ohio<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong>$2.73 million<\/strong> <span>for a Massachusetts U.S. Navy veteran<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong>$34 million<\/strong> <span>for a California Army veteran &amp; auto mechanic<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<style type=\"text\/css\">.amounts-wrap{margin:0 0 40px;max-width:775px;font-size:16px}.amounts-wrap.no-top-margin{margin:0 0 40px}.amounts-wrap ul{list-style:none;margin:0}.amounts-wrap ul li{background:#E5F4F6F6;border-radius:5px;display:block;display:flex;overflow:hidden;padding:10px;line-height:21px;margin-bottom:8px;align-items:center}.amounts-wrap ul li:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.amounts-wrap ul li strong{background:#C7E8EC;font-size:16px;margin:-10px 0 -10px -10px;min-width:125px;padding:20px 10px 20px 15px;position:relative}.amounts-wrap ul li strong:after{background:#C7E8EC;clip-path:polygon(0% 0%, 100% 50%, 0% 100%);content:\"\";display:block;height:100%;position:absolute;right:-14px;top:0;width:14px}.amounts-wrap ul li span{padding:0 0 0 25px}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.amounts-wrap ul li{padding:2px 10px}.amounts-wrap ul li span{padding:8px 0 8px 25px}}<\/style><\/div>\n<p>If a veteran passes away before they can take legal action, their family members may be able to pursue settlements through a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/legal\/lawsuit\/wrongful-death\/\">wrongful death lawsuit<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Download our <strong>Free Veterans Compensation Guide<\/strong> today to learn how to access asbestos trust funds and legal settlements.<\/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>Treatment for Veterans With Mesothelioma<\/h2>\n<p>Veterans with mesothelioma can access treatment from top surgeons and oncologists (cancer doctors) within the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans\/va-benefits\/va-healthcare\/\">VA health care system<\/a> at little to no cost. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and emerging therapies in clinical trials.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><strong>Some top VA mesothelioma treatment centers include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"row medical-facility-wrap small\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.medical-facility-box{background:#F2F2F2;border-radius:10px;box-shadow:0px 4px 4px 0px #00000040;display:block;color:#033E69;text-decoration:none;padding:20px 20px 60px;position:relative;font-size:15px}.medical-facility-box .hos a:hover{color:#100134;text-decoration:underline}.medical-facility-box .hos a:after{content:\"\";position:absolute;top:0;bottom:0;left:0;right:0;z-index:1}.med-fac-box-header{display:block;display:flex;align-items:center}.medical-facility-box img{width:60px;min-width:60px;border:3px solid #fff;border-radius:50%}.medical-facility-box .hos{font-size:18px;margin:0;color:inherit;padding-left:13px}.hos-specialist{font-size:15px;border-left:2px solid #0FAEBF;padding-left:15px;margin-top:15px;margin-left:10px}strong.hos-specialist-label{font-weight:bold;display:block;margin-bottom:7px;line-height:17px}p.hos-location{margin:0;position:relative;padding-left:30px;line-height:20px;margin-top:20px}p.hos-location:before{font-family:\"mesohope\" !important;content:\"\\e90b\";font-size:25px;left:0;padding-right:7px;position:absolute;}.medical-facility-box ul{font-size:15px;line-height:20px;margin-top:15px;margin-bottom:0}.medical-facility-box ul li::marker{color:inherit;font-size:13px}.medical-facility-box ul li{margin-bottom:10px}button.med-fac-modal{background:#0FAEBF;box-shadow:none;border:none;width:100%;border-radius:0 0 10px 10px;text-decoration:underline;position:absolute;bottom:0;left:0;padding:10px;z-index:2}.row.medical-facility-wrap{margin:40px 0}.row.medical-facility-wrap>div{width:100%}.facility-form .form-header{display:block;display:flex;align-items:center;margin-bottom:15px}.facility-form img{max-width:50px;margin-bottom:0;margin-right:10px;border-radius:50%}.facility-form h2.form-title{font-size:20px}.facility-form.thank-you{background:#F3F2F0;color:#000;border:1px solid #C6C6C6;border-radius:8px}.facility-form.thank-you h4{font-size:26px}.facility-form.thank-you a:not(.button){color:#F46E0F;font-weight:700}.facility-form.thank-you a.button{margin-right:20px;margin-bottom:20px;display:table}#facility-form-popup{position:relative}#facility-form-popup .mfp-close{width:44px;height:44px;line-height:44px;position:absolute;right:0;top:0;text-decoration:none;text-align:center;opacity:0.65;padding:0 0 18px 10px;color:#fff !important;font-style:normal;font-size:28px;font-family:Arial, Baskerville, monospace;border:none;left:unset;transform:none}#facility-form-popup .mfp-close:after{content:\"\"}#facility-form-popup .form-wrap.form-submitted+.mfp-close{color:#100134 !important}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.row.medical-facility-wrap{display:block;display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;margin:40px -15px}.row.medical-facility-wrap>div{width:50%;padding:0 15px;margin:0 0 30px !important}.row.medical-facility-wrap>div .medical-facility-box{height:100%}.facility-form .fsForm{min-width:650px}.facility-form .fsSubmitButton{width:100%;min-width:100%;padding:14px 30px}.facility-form.thank-you a.button{display:inline-block;margin-bottom:0}}@media screen and (min-width: 1280px){.row.medical-facility-wrap>div{width:33%;margin:0 0 30px !important}}<\/style><div class=\"col-6\"><div class=\"medical-facility-box no-specialist\"><div class=\"med-fac-box-header\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DeBakeyVACenterHouston-min-e1598989487158-85x85.jpeg\" alt=\"Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center\" \/><h3 class=\"hos\"><a href=\"\/cancer-centers\/michael-e-debakey-va\/\" data-ce-category=\"Medical Facility Shortcode\" data-ce-label=\"Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center Box Link\">Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center<\/a><\/h3><\/div><div class=\"med-fac-box-inner\"><p class=\"hos-location\">2002 Holcombe Blvd.<br \/>\nHouston, TX 77030<\/p><button data-image=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/DeBakeyVACenterHouston-min-e1598989487158-85x85.jpeg\" data-center=\"Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center\" class=\"med-fac-modal popup-link-inline\" data-mfp-src=\"#facility-form-popup\">Get Connected ><\/button><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"col-6\"><div class=\"medical-facility-box no-specialist\"><div class=\"med-fac-box-header\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/VA-Boston-Healthcare-System-e1589826098271-85x85.png\" alt=\"VA Boston Health Care System\" \/><h3 class=\"hos\"><a href=\"\/cancer-centers\/boston-va\/\" data-ce-category=\"Medical Facility Shortcode\" data-ce-label=\"VA Boston Health Care System Box Link\">VA Boston Health Care System<\/a><\/h3><\/div><div class=\"med-fac-box-inner\"><p class=\"hos-location\">1400 VFW Parkway<br \/>\nWest Roxbury, MA 02132<\/p><button data-image=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/VA-Boston-Healthcare-System-e1589826098271-85x85.png\" data-center=\"VA Boston Health Care System\" class=\"med-fac-modal popup-link-inline\" data-mfp-src=\"#facility-form-popup\">Get Connected ><\/button><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"col-6\"><div class=\"medical-facility-box no-specialist\"><div class=\"med-fac-box-header\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/va-puget-sound-health-care-system-85x85.png\" alt=\"VA Puget Sound Health Care System\" \/><h3 class=\"hos\"><a href=\"\/cancer-centers\/va-puget-sound\/\" data-ce-category=\"Medical Facility Shortcode\" data-ce-label=\"VA Puget Sound Health Care System Box Link\">VA Puget Sound Health Care System<\/a><\/h3><\/div><div class=\"med-fac-box-inner\"><p class=\"hos-location\">1660 South Columbian Way<br \/>\nSeattle, WA 98108<\/p><button data-image=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/va-puget-sound-health-care-system-85x85.png\" data-center=\"VA Puget Sound Health Care System\" class=\"med-fac-modal popup-link-inline\" data-mfp-src=\"#facility-form-popup\">Get Connected ><\/button><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"col-6\"><div class=\"medical-facility-box no-specialist\"><div class=\"med-fac-box-header\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/West-Los-Angeles-VA-Medical-Center-min-e1598989579505-85x85.jpg\" alt=\"West Los Angeles VA Medical Center\" \/><h3 class=\"hos\"><a href=\"\/cancer-centers\/west-los-angeles-va\/\" data-ce-category=\"Medical Facility Shortcode\" data-ce-label=\"West Los Angeles VA Medical Center Box Link\">West Los Angeles VA Medical Center<\/a><\/h3><\/div><div class=\"med-fac-box-inner\"><p class=\"hos-location\">11301 Wilshire Boulevard<br \/>\nLos Angeles, CA 90073<\/p><button data-image=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/West-Los-Angeles-VA-Medical-Center-min-e1598989579505-85x85.jpg\" data-center=\"West Los Angeles VA Medical Center\" class=\"med-fac-modal popup-link-inline\" data-mfp-src=\"#facility-form-popup\">Get Connected ><\/button><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/p>\n<p><div class=\"col-6\"><div class=\"medical-facility-box no-specialist\"><div class=\"med-fac-box-header\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/James_A_Haley_VA_Hospital-85x85.jpg\" alt=\"James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital\" \/><h3 class=\"hos\">James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"med-fac-box-inner\"><p class=\"hos-location\">13000 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard<br \/>\nTampa, FL 33612<\/p><button data-image=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/James_A_Haley_VA_Hospital-85x85.jpg\" data-center=\"James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital\" class=\"med-fac-modal popup-link-inline\" data-mfp-src=\"#facility-form-popup\">Get Connected ><\/button><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/p>\n<p><div class=\"col-6\"><div class=\"medical-facility-box no-specialist\"><div class=\"med-fac-box-header\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Corporal-Michael-J.-Crescenz-VA-Medical-Center--85x85.jpeg\" alt=\"Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center\" \/><h3 class=\"hos\">Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"med-fac-box-inner\"><p class=\"hos-location\">3900 Woodland Avenue<br \/>\nPhiladelphia, PA 19104<\/p><button data-image=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Corporal-Michael-J.-Crescenz-VA-Medical-Center--85x85.jpeg\" data-center=\"Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center\" class=\"med-fac-modal popup-link-inline\" data-mfp-src=\"#facility-form-popup\">Get Connected ><\/button><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<p>Getting treatment from a specialist at one of these veterans mesothelioma hospitals can help improve your prognosis and quality of life.<\/p>\n<h2>Get Help Filing for Mesothelioma Veterans Benefits and Compensation<\/h2>\n<p>If you are a U.S. veteran with mesothelioma, don\u2019t wait to file for VA benefits and compensation. You served our country with pride, and you deserve medical and financial support for your illness.<\/p>\n<p>Outside of VA benefits, you can work with a lawyer to pursue mesothelioma veterans compensation through asbestos trust fund claims and legal settlements. Filing a lawsuit does not take legal action against the U.S. military or government.<\/p>\n<p>The <strong>Mesothelioma Hope team offers free assistance<\/strong> to help you access VA disability benefits, asbestos trust fund payouts, and legal settlements. 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 our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/veterans-guide\/\">Free Veterans Compensation Guide<\/a> to get started today.<\/p>\n<div class=\"faq-wrap\"><h2 class=\"faq-wrap-heading\">Military and Mesothelioma FAQs<\/h2><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"1\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What is the VA rating for mesothelioma?<\/h3><div><p>The VA grants U.S. veterans with mesothelioma a<strong> 100% disability rating<\/strong> in most cases. This allows veterans to get the highest monthly payouts available.<\/p>\n<p>For 2025, married veterans with a 100% disability rating qualify for <strong>$4,044.91 per month in tax-free compensation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/about\/contact\/\">Contact our Patient Advocates<\/a> to get free help filing for mesothelioma disability benefits or increasing your disability rating after a diagnosis.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"2\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">How much does the VA pay for asbestos?<\/h3><div><p>Married mesothelioma veterans with a 100% disability rating caused by service-connected asbestos exposure can receive monthly payments of $4,044.91, totaling <strong>over $48,000 annually<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>These benefits aren\u2019t subject to taxes, and there are no restrictions on how you can use the money.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"3\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">How do I prove asbestos exposure to the VA?<\/h3><div><p><strong>You don\u2019t have to prove asbestos exposure to the VA on your own<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Our legal partners have extensive databases of military job sites, ships, and installations where asbestos was used. This means <strong>we can help identify when, where, and how you were exposed<\/strong>, taking the burden off your shoulders.<\/p>\n<p>We can also file legal claims on your behalf to help you access additional compensation from asbestos trust funds and lawsuit settlements.<\/p>\n<p>Give us a call 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> to get the help you need.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"4\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What percentage of VA disability is asbestos exposure?<\/h3><div><p>The VA disability rating for asbestos-related illnesses depends on how severe the condition is.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Mesothelioma and <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/cancer\/lung-cancer\/\"><strong>asbestos lung cancer<\/strong><\/a> automatically qualify for a 100% disability rating, meaning veterans get the highest monthly compensation available.<\/li>\n<li>For <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/asbestosis\/\"><strong>asbestosis<\/strong><\/a> and other non-cancerous lung diseases, the rating can range from 10% to 100%, depending on how much it affects your breathing and daily life.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Veterans affected by asbestos exposure may also qualify for additional VA benefits, such as Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) for severe disabilities or Aid and Attendance (A&amp;A) for assistance with daily tasks.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"What is the VA rating for mesothelioma?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;The VA grants U.S. veterans with mesothelioma a&lt;strong&gt; 100% disability rating&lt;\/strong&gt; in most cases. This allows veterans to get the highest monthly payouts available.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;For 2025, married veterans with a 100% disability rating qualify for &lt;strong&gt;$4,044.91 per month in tax-free compensation&lt;\/strong&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Contact our Patient Advocates to get free help filing for mesothelioma disability benefits or increasing your disability rating after a diagnosis.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"How much does the VA pay for asbestos?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;Married mesothelioma veterans with a 100% disability rating caused by service-connected asbestos exposure can receive monthly payments of $4,044.91, totaling &lt;strong&gt;over $48,000 annually&lt;\/strong&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;These benefits aren\u2019t subject to taxes, and there are no restrictions on how you can use the money.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"How do I prove asbestos exposure to the VA?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;You don\u2019t have to prove asbestos exposure to the VA on your own&lt;\/strong&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Our legal partners have extensive databases of military job sites, ships, and installations where asbestos was used. 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Veterans get mesothelioma because the military used asbestos in ships, buildings, vehicles, and other equipment until the early 1980s without knowing it was dangerous. Military veterans who worked with asbestos-containing products unknowingly breathed in and swallowed asbestos fibers, which can cause mesothelioma later in life. If you or a loved&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":35,"featured_media":1533,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-53","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/53","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=53"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/53\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1533"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=53"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}