Illinois Veterans Disability Lawyers

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Attention Illinois Veterans!

If you’re an Illinois veteran dealing with a VA disability claim denial or a low rating, you’re not alone. The process can feel like a maze.

But here’s the good news: ProVet Legal is here to be your guide, your advocate, and your secret weapon in winning the benefits you deserve.

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Top Reasons for VA Claim Denials in Illinois

The VA denies claims for countless reasons, but some of the most common include:

• Insufficient medical evidence
• Missing or incomplete documentation
• Failure to connect your condition to your service
• Missed deadlines in the VA’s timeline

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many veterans face these hurdles, but with the right strategy, they can be overcome.

The VA Disability Appeals and Denials Process

The VA has overhauled its appeals system with the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA), but that doesn’t mean it’s any less of a maze. You now have three options if the VA denies your claim or lowballs your disability condition rating:

The Decision Review Process Under the AMA

Option 1: Supplemental Claim

If you have new and relevant evidence that wasn’t included in your original claim, filing a supplemental claim is your best bet. This option allows you to submit additional documentation to support your case. The VA has to assist you in gathering evidence for this type of claim, but having an attorney on your side can help you submit the most compelling evidence possible.

Option 2: Higher-Level Review

Think the VA made a mistake in evaluating your claim? The higher-level review option allows a senior VA reviewer to take a fresh look at your case. You can’t submit new evidence with this option, but you can request an informal conference with the reviewer to point out errors or oversights in the original decision. Our attorneys can help prepare you for this conference and ensure you make the strongest case possible.

Option 3: Board Appeal

For veterans who want to take their case straight to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, this option provides three different dockets:

1. Direct Review: The board examines your case based on existing evidence, with no new submissions or hearings.
2. Evidence Submission: You have 90 days to submit new evidence for the board to consider.
3. Hearing: You can request a hearing before a Veterans Law Judge, either virtually or in person.

Each option has its own strategy and timeline. Choosing the right path can mean the difference between victory and another frustrating denial. That’s where we come in.

Choosing Another Option

If you’re not happy with the results of one option, you’re not out of luck. You can still pursue others. For instance, after a Higher-Level Review, you can still submit a Supplemental Claim or appeal to the Board. We’ll help you understand these options to keep your claim moving forward.

Timeline and Wait Times

Each appeal option has its own timeline:

• Supplemental Claims and Higher-Level Reviews aim for decisions within 4-5 months.
• Board Appeals can take longer, often a year or more, depending on the docket chosen.

Timely action is crucial in the appeals process. Missed deadlines can derail your claim, which is why having a VA disability lawyer can make all the difference.

The VA Disability Rating System

Disabilities are rated from 10% to 100% based on their severity and impact on your ability to work and perform daily activities. But do you know what these numbers really mean for you?

Here’s a quick rundown:

• 10% – 20%: You’re on the radar, but benefits are limited.
• 30% – 60%: Now we’re talking. Significant monthly compensation and additional benefits kick in.
• 70% – 90%: Serious disabilities with substantial support.
• 100%: Maximum schedular rating with the most comprehensive benefits package.

These percentages translate into monthly compensation rates. But it’s not just about your disability rating – the number of dependents you have can bump up your benefits, too.

So, if you have a full house, you might see a bigger check. These rates can also increase year over year with inflation.

Combined Ratings

If you have multiple service-connected disabilities, the VA uses a combined rating table to calculate your overall disability percentage. This isn’t a straight addition – a 30% and a 20% rating doesn’t equal 50%, for example.

Our team can help you understand how your disabilities combine and potentially identify opportunities to increase your overall rating.

Permanent & Total Disability

A 100% disability rating doesn’t automatically mean your disability is considered permanent and total (P&T). P&T status provides additional benefits and protections, including:

• No future VA examinations
• Educational benefits for dependents
• Certain state and local benefits

We can help you determine if you qualify for P&T status and assist in securing this important designation.

Common Service-Connected Disabilities in Illinois

Service-connected disabilities can encompass a wide range of conditions. Some of the most common include:

Physical Disabilities

• Musculoskeletal injuries (back pain, knee problems)
• Hearing loss and tinnitus
• Respiratory conditions
• Arthritis
• Arm and shoulder injuries
• Back and neck conditions
• Cancer
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Headaches

Mental Health Conditions

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Military Sexual Trauma (MST)
• Toxic Exposure Disabilities
• Conditions related to Agent Orange exposure
• Gulf War Syndrome
• Illnesses linked to burn pit exposure

Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)

Veterans with severe disabilities may qualify for SMC, which provides additional compensation above the 100% rate. This can apply to loss of limbs, blindness, the need for regular aid and attendance, and other specific situations.

Illinois-Specific Veteran Resources

As a Illinois veteran, you have access to state-specific benefits and resources to assist with your disability claims and appeals.

State VA Offices and Services

• Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA): Provides assistance in navigating federal, state, and local resources and benefits, offering long-term health care for eligible veterans and support in areas such as education, mental health, housing, and employment.
• Veteran Service Officers (VSOs): IDVA operates full-time and part-time offices across the state, staffed by VSOs who are fellow veterans and experts on federal, state, and local veteran resources. They assist veterans in navigating the complex web of services and benefits available.
• VA Medical Centers and Clinics: Illinois hosts several VA medical centers and community-based outpatient clinics providing healthcare services to veterans. Facilities are located in cities such as Chicago, Hines, North Chicago, Marion, and Danville.

Veteran Advocacy Groups

• The American Legion Department of Illinois: Offers support and advocacy for veterans, including assistance with VA claims and access to various programs and services.
• AMVETS Department of Illinois: Provides resources and assistance to veterans and their families, specializing in VA claims.
• Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Department of Illinois: Offers free assistance to veterans in filing claims for VA benefits, including disability compensation and medical services.
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of Illinois: Provides support and advocacy for veterans, including assistance with VA claims and access to various programs and services.
• Illinois Joining Forces (IJF): A statewide, public-private network of veteran- and military-serving organizations working collaboratively to improve services for service members, veterans, and their families.

Illinois Veterans Benefits Guide

The FDVA provides a comprehensive guide to state benefits, which we can help you navigate to ensure you’re not missing out on any opportunities.

Illinois Veteran Benefits by Disability Rating

Illinois offers additional benefits for veterans based on their VA disability ratings. Here’s a breakdown of benefits by rating category:

10% – 40% Disability Rating

• State Employment Preference: Veterans receive preference for state employment opportunities.
• Property Tax Exemption: Eligible veterans may receive a reduction in the equalized assessed value of their primary residence.
• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Discounted rates are available for veterans.
• Education Benefits: Access to the Illinois Veteran Grant, covering tuition and certain fees at state-supported colleges and universities.
• State Parks Admission: Free admission to Illinois state parks.

50% – 90% Disability Rating

• Increased Property Tax Exemption: Higher reductions in the equalized assessed value of the primary residence.
• Special License Plates: Eligibility for distinctive license plates at reduced fees.
• Additional Education Benefits: Priority access to state educational programs and scholarships.
• Healthcare Services: Enhanced access to state-funded healthcare programs.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Eligibility for state-sponsored vocational training programs.

100% Disability Rating

• Full Property Tax Exemption: Complete exemption from property taxes on the primary residence.
• Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Complimentary licenses for hunting and fishing.
• Educational Benefits for Dependents: Dependents may receive tuition exemptions at state-supported colleges and universities.
• State Park Benefits: Free admission and additional amenities at state parks.
• Transportation Assistance: Access to free or discounted public transportation services.

Additional State Programs

• State Veterans Homes: Illinois operates several veterans’ homes providing long-term skilled care.
• Veterans’ Cash Lottery Ticket Grant Program: Funds from the sale of lottery tickets support veterans’ organizations and initiatives.
• Veterans Treatment Courts: Specialized court programs addressing the needs of veterans within the justice system.
• Women Veterans Program: Programs and services tailored to the unique needs of women veterans.
• Veterans Assistance Fund: Provides financial assistance to veterans in need.

Remember, these benefits can change, and you might need to qualify. Always check with the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs or your County Veteran Service Officer for the latest information.

How ProVet Legal Can Help You Appeal Your VA Disability Denial

At ProVet Legal, we’re more than just lawyers – we’re advocates dedicated to fighting for the benefits you deserve. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Free Consultation — We’ll assess your case at no cost to help determine if we’re the right fit for your needs.
• Experienced Legal Team — Our attorneys are 100% focused on VA law and have a track record of successful appeals. We know the system, and we know how to make it work for you.
• Personal Experience — We’re not just talking the talk. With personal insight into the challenges veterans face, we’re committed to serving those who served.
• Strategic Appeals Process — We’ll guide you through choosing the most appropriate appeal option and prepare compelling arguments to support your case.
• Timely Appeals — We are able to file most appeals within 60 days of opening a new case or receiving a new decision from the VA, often acting even sooner. We don’t wait until the deadline to take action on your case.
• Proactive Case Management — While waiting for the VA’s decision, we closely monitor the files and promptly address any errors to keep your case on track. We are proactive, not reactive.
• Transparency — We will communicate with you regularly throughout the process. Even if VA action takes months, we’ll keep you in the loop every step of the way.

Don’t let the VA’s decision be the final word on your disability claim. Contact ProVet Legal today for a free case review. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you.

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Don’t Let VA Denials Stop You – Free Consultation Today

The VA system is designed to wear you down. To make you give up. But you didn’t give up when your country called, and you shouldn’t give up now.

ProVet Legal is ready to take up arms for you. We’ll cut through the red tape, stand up to the bureaucracy, and fight tooth and nail for every benefit you deserve.

Don’t let the VA shortchange your sacrifice. Contact us today for your free case review.

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