The Basics of Veterans’ Benefits

The U.S. annual total spending is normally divided into three parts: discretionary, mandatory, and interest on federal debt. Discretionary and mandatory spending are subdivided into many different parts, including veterans’ benefits, transportation, food and agriculture, and science. Veterans’ benefits is among the few facets of the annual budget that have mandatory and discretionary allocations, which may show how the government values the welfare of retired military personnel.

Any veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces who sustained injury during military service and suffers a resulting illness may be eligible to receive veterans’ benefits. However, the veteran must meet certain requirements during application prior to securing the benefits. Normally, the eligible beneficiaries are active service members with an impending discharge through either the Benefits Delivery at Discharge Program or the BDD Quick Start claim process.

To apply for veterans’ disability benefits, the personnel must fill out and submit the Veteran’s Application for Compensation and/or Pension and a separation or discharge paperwork. These forms together with supporting documents will be reviewed by the VA’s Board of Veterans Appeals to determine the regular amount the beneficiary will receive.

The amount to be given monthly is determined based on the applicant’s degree of disability. This ranges from $127 to $3,100 per month. If the applicant has dependents, this will be considered in the computation, which may increase the regular subsidy. The basis of the application is for the veteran to prove that his injury is service-related.