Living with mesothelioma has many challenges. Fortunately, there are several options for mesothelioma compensation for veterans, which can alleviate financial stress and help them receive life-prolonging treatment.
Compensation for veterans with mesothelioma is widely available through both the federal government and private claims. Benefits and compensation payments can help you fund your treatment, replace lost wages, access mesothelioma specialists, and support your family. Special assistive and care benefits can further improve your quality of life.
Who Offers Mesothelioma Compensation for Veterans?
Veterans with mesothelioma have two primary avenues for obtaining compensation:
- Government benefits through Veterans Affairs
- Private personal injury claims
The United States Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) is a government agency that provides healthcare and other services to qualifying veterans. Through the VA, veterans can receive monthly compensation payments, healthcare, and non-healthcare benefits.
Veterans are eligible for VA benefits if they developed an asbestos-related disease after being exposed to asbestos while serving in the military. When you file for VA benefits, you must meet certain eligibility criteria, including being honorably discharged.
Veterans with mesothelioma also have private claim options. For example, you can file claims to access asbestos trust funds or file personal injury lawsuits against companies for their role in exposing you to asbestos. Your loved ones also have the opportunity to pursue legal action against asbestos product manufacturers and receive benefits from the government.
Top VA Benefits Available to Veterans
There are many classifications of VA benefits available, including VA disability compensation, which provides disabled veterans with tax-free monthly payments. The VA determines the amount of money you receive based on the severity of your disability and whether or not you have dependents — the VA rates mesothelioma at the highest degree of disability.
The VA also provides several healthcare benefits if you enroll in the VA healthcare system. Most veterans qualify for cost-free healthcare and have access to various medical benefits, including specialty care and medical equipment. Through the VA hospital system, you will also have access to world-renowned mesothelioma specialists.
Other benefits offered by the VA include:
- Caregiver assistance for a home health aide or nursing home care
- Housebound benefits if you cannot leave your home due to your illness
- VA healthcare for your family members
- Funeral and burial reimbursement
- Pensions for veterans and surviving family
If you’re unsure of your eligibility for VA benefits, contact a VA-Accredited Claims Agent at the Mesothelioma Veterans Center today for help with your claim.
Accessing Asbestos Trust Funds
Many veterans believe they cannot pursue private financial compensation options if they receive VA benefits. This is not true. Receiving VA benefits does not interfere with your eligibility to receive private compensation through asbestos trust funds — and vice versa.
Asbestos trust funds are funded by bankrupt asbestos companies to offer mesothelioma compensation for veterans without the need to file a lawsuit. Filing a trust fund claim is similar to filing a lawsuit, but you don't have to worry about going to trial. You will, however, need to provide proof that asbestos exposure from the company’s product caused your asbestos-related illness.
Unfortunately, veterans often work close to asbestos products. Find out if you can access Asbestos trust funds by checking your eligibility for free.
Filing Mesothelioma Lawsuits
You can also sue non-bankrupt companies if their products exposed you to asbestos. Fortunately, most cases are settled out of court. A settlement guarantees that you and your family will receive payment to compensate for your hardship.
On the other hand, mesothelioma lawsuits that go to trial are not guaranteed and victims don’t always win. It’s important to work with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to help you build your case and compile the extensive evidence you need to support your claim. To ensure you have a solid case, contact the Mesothelioma Veterans Center for a free review of your claim.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits for Family Members
It’s possible that a veteran with mesothelioma dies before they can file a claim. In this case, the veteran’s spouse or children may be able to benefit from a wrongful death claim. Filing a wrongful death suit allows family members to receive money from companies that contributed to the death of their loved one.
It’s also worth noting that the VA provides memorial benefits for veterans who have passed away. For example, the VA can help with funeral costs and offer special burial benefits to pay a lasting tribute to the veterans who sacrificed their lives for our country.
Veterans and families facing mesothelioma are often unaware of the number of options available to them. It’s important to go after the compensation you deserve. Mesothelioma treatment can improve your quality of life, so make sure you get the help you need.
Remember to contact the Mesothelioma Veterans Center if you have any questions about your eligibility for mesothelioma compensation for veterans.
