5 VA Benefit Myths You Believe
Don’t allow a myth to stop you from receiving the benefits that are rightfully yours! In this blog post, we’ll dispel five of the most frequent VA benefit myths. We will show you exactly why these myths are unfounded. Too many veterans are losing tens of thousands of dollars by believing these myths.
VA Benefit Myths: Only Medical Retired Are Eligible
The Department of Defense medical retirement is completely separate from VA disability. The VA does not require a med board to receive VA disability. In addition, there is no requirement to file a claim immediately after you leave the service. However, the sooner you file the better.
One of our BOOT CAMP graduates last separated from the Army in 2002. He believed the VA benefit myths for almost two decades. He graduated from our Boot Camp, and has already worked his way to a 20% disability rating. In addition, he is currently working on an additional claim.
Bad Paper Discharge = No Benefits
Guess what? Combat Craig is 100% P&T with a General Discharge. A General Discharge disqualifies you from the GI Bill. However, it is a VA benefit myth that a General Discharge disqualifies you from VA benefits. In addition, veterans with an Other Than Honorable or Bad Conduct discharge are sometimes eligible for benefits.
Veterans with an OTH or Bad Conduct discharge typically need to seek a discharge upgrade before receiving benefits. However, the VA can also decide to allow for an exception based on the reason for discharge. PTSD, MST, or other mental health issues would be the most exceptions. We encourage you to apply, and force the VA to make a determination.
VA Benefit Myths: I Cant Get Benefits Overseas!
Many veterans choose to retire or move overseas after military service. They are still eligible for VA benefits. However, there is a small amount of truth to this VA benefit myth. The overseas program for VA benefits only covers service-connected health issues.
For example, I live in the United States. The VA will treat me for any medical issue. I do not have a copay because I am rated at or above 50%. For veterans 10%-40%, a small copay will be their only cost for non service-connected issues. However, the VA overseas will only treat for service-connected issues.
This has no impact on their monthly disability payments. In addition, many veterans elect to return to the United States when they need care. This can be a cost effective choice; depending on the location.
I Make Too Much Money For Benefits!
This VA benefit myth is loosely based on facts. Veterans without a service-connected issue can sometimes be eligible for health care based on financial need. In addition, the VA waives co-pays for very low-income veterans. However, this policy has created the money myth.
Veterans may make as much money as they want. In addition, they are still eligible for benefits. Remember, VA health care and VA disability benefits are two unique items. You can receive 100% disability and still work full-time.
The Big One: These Benefits Are A Waste Of Time
The new 2023 Cost of Living Adjustment went into effect on 1 December 2022. As a result, the 100% rate for a single veteran is now $3,621.95. That is $43,463.40 a year. Tax free.
The new 10% rate for disability is $165.92. That is $1,991.04 a year. Tax free. We want you to pursue a 100% rating, but even a 10% rating is a significant amount of money over several years.
Is it a lot of work to get VA disability? Absolutely. That is not a VA benefit myth. However, the outcome can be a significant financial win. Check out our BOOT CAMP for more information on how to fight and WIN your benefits that you have earned.
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