For decades, tens of millions of U.S. veterans were exposed to asbestos during their military service. This toxic carcinogen was widely used in construction materials like insulation and fireproof parts of military vehicles, barracks, Navy ships, and aircraft. Unfortunately, as a veteran, this puts you at an extreme risk of serious illnesses like mesothelioma: a rare cancer with no known cure that’s caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. In fact, veterans make up a shocking one in three mesothelioma diagnoses.
As a result, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a range of benefits to support affected veterans. In this guide, we’ll go over some of the key benefits available if you’re a veteran.
- VA Disability Compensation
The first of our mesothelioma VA benefits is VA disability compensation. This is a monthly, tax-free payment for veterans whose illnesses are connected to their service. If you can prove your mesothelioma was caused by asbestos exposure during your time in the military, you automatically qualify for the highest levels of compensation. The exact amount depends on personal circumstances, like whether you have a spouse or children.
- VA Pension for Low-Income VeteransÂ
This financial assistance program is designed for veterans who are disabled with an income that falls below a certain threshold. If you don’t qualify for VA disability compensation, this may be another form of financial relief. The VA pension pays out every month to help cover your living expenses.
- Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
This additional financial compensation is for veterans with severe disabilities who require assistance with daily activities. For example, if your mesothelioma means you need help with mobility, dressing, bathing, or household tasks, this money can be used to pay for caregivers or assisted living.
- VA Healthcare BenefitsÂ
The VA has dedicated mesothelioma treatment centers all over the country, staffed by leading specialists. Through VA healthcare benefits, veterans can access specialized treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery for free or at a low cost. Palliative and hospice care is also available for late-stage mesothelioma patients. For veterans who live far away from their nearest mesothelioma center, travel reimbursement is also offered.
- VA Burial and Survivor Benefits
Families of veterans who pass away from mesothelioma can qualify for financial assistance. This covers or at least contributes to things like burial costs and funeral expenses. Eligible veterans also qualify for free burial in VA cemeteries. Through something known as Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), surviving spouses and children may receive additional support. This helps to ensure families are financially secure even after losing their loved one.
Endnote
If you or a loved one served in the US military and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of your service, you are entitled to benefits. While no amount of compensation can negate the devastation of incurable cancer, these benefits can lighten the load as you navigate the challenges of such a diagnosis.
Through disability compensation, pensions, healthcare, and survivor benefits, the VA provides a range of resources. If you’re unsure how to proceed, speak to a VA-accredited attorney to ensure you and your family receive the benefits you’ve earned.
