After sacrificing so much for our country and finally returning home from service, you may find yourself in need of disability benefits in order to receive the treatment you need to cope with lasting injuries. Unfortunately, navigating the disability process can be overwhelming and frustrating. There are dozens of veterans’ service organizations out there that exist in order to provide you with assistance. A better option, however, is to seek out a knowledgeable and experienced attorney who can serve as a zealous advocate in your corner.

Three Reasons to Hire an Attorney When Seeking Veteran’s Disability Benefits

Why should you consider using an attorney instead of a service organization? The following is an overview:

  1. We have the time and resources to make you a first priority. While veteran’s service organizations provided a much needed and valuable service to the community, they simply cannot provide the same amount of time and resources as a private attorney. We will assess the unique aspects of your entire history and help determine the best and most efficient path towards helping you obtain the disability benefits that you deserve.
  2. We provide personalized service and all of the attention that you deserve and desire. For many veterans, this is the first time that they are applying for these much-needed benefits. We are available to answer all of your questions and ensure that you are fully involved and apprised of the status of your claim throughout the entire process. Service organizations are notoriously backlogged and can often take days to respond to your needs.
  3. If your benefits were denied or you need a discharge upgrade in order to qualify for benefits, you need a strong advocate in your corner. According to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals Annual Chairman’s Report for 2011, veterans represented by attorneys have the lowest rate of denial by the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, at 17.7 percent. The overall average denial rate for all veterans is much higher at 24.2 percent. Veterans represented by an attorney also have a high success rate when it comes to having their appeals allowed and collecting Equal Access Justice Act fees. These fees are awarded when it can be shown that the government’s position was not substantially justified.

Ready to learn more about pursuing your right to veterans’ disability benefits? We encourage you to get started today by downloading our free guide, The Essential Guide to VA Disability Claims.

 

Sean D. Cuddigan
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SSA and VA Disability Attorney in Omaha, Nebraska