A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a condition that sadly affects many veterans. TBIs can affect different aspects of a veteran’s life, from physical issues to cognitive problems. If you’re a veteran considering applying for VA disability benefits with a brain injury, we’ll explain what the process entails.
Qualifying for Veterans Disability Benefits with a Brain Injury
Before you apply for veterans disability benefits, you need to know the eligibility requirements. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, qualified veterans must have an honorable discharge as well as a service-connected disability.
It’s important to have the full support of your doctor when you apply for VA disability with a brain injury. That’s because your doctor may be able to provide evidence of how your TBI personally affects you. In addition, your doctor may know if it’s directly related to any other disabling health issues. The schedule rating for TBI falls under diagnostic code 4.124a neurological conditions and convulsive disorders. Veterans can refer to the section to gain a better understanding of what the VA may look for in claims. This section also holds on how the VA assigns your disability rating.
Determining a VA Rating for TBI
The VA assigns a disability rating to each veteran who applies for VA disability benefits. These ratings can range anywhere from 0%-100%. They can also help the VA determine what your earnings capacity is based on your medical diagnosis.
There are three main areas of dysfunction that may result from your brain injury. These areas are cognitive, emotional/behavioral, and physical. If your doctor diagnosed you with a particular condition, then it likely falls under its diagnostics code. Don’t already have a distinct diagnosis? Then review the “Evaluation of Cognitive Impairment and Other Residuals of TBI Not Other Classified” table for a VA rating determination.
The “Evaluation of Cognitive Impairment and Other Residuals of TBI Not Other Classified” table evaluates TBI residuals of TBI not already classified. Using this chart, the VA will determine your level of impairment based on specific criteria. Each impairment level is classified as 0, 1, 2, 3, or total and coordinates with a VA rating percentage for TBI.
You May Qualify for Legal Assistance
Appealing a denied veterans disability claim for your TBI can be challenging. For many people, turning to a VA accredited attorney is the best option. Legal representatives help more than 4 in every 5 disabled vets get the benefits they earned from the VA through military service.
Ready to see if you may qualify? Click the button below to start your free online benefits evaluation now!
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Megan Kelly is a former blogger and copywriter for LeadingResponse.