As a veteran, you might qualify for VA disability benefits if you have developed a neurological disorder due to your military service. Neurological disorders can significantly impact your daily life and overall well-being. Here’s an overview of how the VA rates these disorders and how you can file a claim for VA disability benefits.
Common Neurological Disorders in Veterans
Veterans often face neurological disorders related to their military service, including:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Migraine headaches
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Radiculopathy
- Nerve damage
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Sciatic nerve damage
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Spinal cord injury
- Epilepsy
Some veterans may be at increased risk for certain neurological disorders due to exposure to Agent Orange, especially those who served in Vietnam, South Korea, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Johnston Atoll, Guam, or American Samoa.
How the VA Rates Neurological Disorders
The VA evaluates neurological conditions and convulsive disorders using the 38 CFR 4.124a Schedule of Ratings. Your rating will depend on the type and severity of your neurological disorder.
Veterans who need ongoing medication for a service-connected condition might qualify for a higher rating. Most nerve-related conditions are considered chronic and presumptive because they are recognized as organic nervous system diseases.
Proving Service Connection for Neurological Disorders
To qualify for VA disability benefits, you must demonstrate that your neurological disorder is connected to your military service. This involves:
- Having a current diagnosis of a neurological disorder
- Showing an in-service event, injury, or illness
- Establishing a medical nexus that links your current condition to the in-service event
When filing a claim for disability compensation, use VA Form 21-526EZ. Provide detailed information about your symptoms, medical treatments, and how the condition impacts your daily life.
VA Disability Ratings and Compensation
VA disability ratings for neurological disorders range from 0% to 100%, depending on the severity of your symptoms. This rating determines your monthly compensation.
For instance, in 2024, a veteran with a 10% disability rating and no dependents would receive $171.23 monthly. In contrast, a veteran with a 100% disability rating and no dependents would receive $3,737.85 monthly.
Additional Benefits for Veterans with Neurological Disorders
Beyond monthly compensation, veterans with neurological disorders may be eligible for additional benefits, including:
- Healthcare coverage
- Vocational rehabilitation and employment services
- Specially adapted housing grants
- Automobile allowance
- Adaptive equipment
- Aid and attendance or housebound benefits
If your neurological disorder prevents you from securing substantially gainful employment, you might qualify for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU). This provides benefits equivalent to a 100% disability rating.
Risk Factors for Neurological Disorders in Veterans
Specific factors related to military service can increase the risk of neurological disorders, such as:
- Toxic exposure: Contact with harmful substances like Agent Orange or burn pits.
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI): Significant head trauma from blasts or impacts.
- Gulf War Syndrome: Chronic symptoms without a precise diagnosis affecting Gulf War veterans.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A condition arising from traumatic experiences during service.
Agent Orange and Neurological Disorders
Veterans exposed to Agent Orange may face a higher risk of specific neurological conditions. The VA acknowledges the following disorders as related to Agent Orange exposure:
- Parkinson’s disease
- Early-onset peripheral neuropathy
Get Assistance with Your VA Disability Claim
If you’re a veteran with a neurological disorder linked to your military service, seeking help with your VA disability claim is crucial. Plan Benefits is here to assist with the complex VA claims process and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
Contact Plan Benefits to schedule a free VA Claim Discovery Call. Let us help you navigate the claim process and secure your VA disability benefits for neurological disorders.