The men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces are deserving of the highest quality of medical and social treatment when their service has ended. The dedicated attorneys who help our veterans navigate the often confusing legal waters involved in receiving veteran benefits are there to serve those who serve our country. One of the more common questions that veterans ask regarding their benefits is about the distinction between pension benefits and compensation benefits. It is worth taking a little time to explain the difference since it is such a common question.
Compensation benefits are defined as compensatory monies that are earned by a veteran as a result of either a disease or an injury that is caused by or made worse as a direct result of the duties of service. This can include being wounded by gunfire or contracting heart disease that “manifested either during or shortly after the term of service. Compensation benefits, on the other hand, are monies that are collected after the requirements of service have been fully met by the veteran and he or she has contracted a condition that qualifies them for government assistance.
Many vets ask if they can receive both pension and compensation benefits and as a general rule that is not an option. Veterans are allowed to receive the benefits package that pays out a higher amount should they qualify for both, but they cannot receive both simultaneously. A qualified veteran benefits attorney in the Birmingham area can help you find out which benefits you’re entitled to.
