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FAQs & LINKS

frequently asked questions

General VA Benefits

Veterans may qualify for disability compensation, health care, pension, housing loans, and education help. Surviving spouses and children may also qualify for certain benefits.

You qualify if:

  • You served in the military, and
  • You have an injury or illness that started in service or was made worse by service.

The VA gives you a percentage (0%–100%) to show how much your condition affects your life. A higher rating means more monthly money.

Yes. VA disability benefits are not based on income. You can work and still get VA money.

Applying for Benefits

You can apply online at VA.gov, by mail, or with help from an attorney or Veterans Service Organization (VSO).

No. You can file yourself or with a VSO. But if your claim is denied or you want to appeal, an attorney can make sure your case is strong.

Yes. You can switch to an attorney at any time, especially if you want to appeal a denial.

Denials and Appeals

Do not give up! Many claims are denied the first time. You have the right to appeal. If you ignore the denial, you could lose benefits you deserve.

We can represent you from the regional office level all the way up to the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC) in Washington, D.C.

Not always, but it helps. Strong medical records or a doctor’s letter connecting your condition to service (called a “nexus letter”) can make a big difference.

Special VA Benefits Questions

TDIU lets you get paid at the 100% rate if your service conditions keep you from working, even if your rating is below 100%.

DIC is monthly money for the spouse, child, or parent of a veteran who died from a service-related injury or illness.

Yes. PTSD, depression, and anxiety can all qualify if they are connected to your service.

Firearms and Employment Concerns

Yes, in most cases. Simply having a PTSD diagnosis or getting compensation does not automatically take away your right to own a gun.

Having PTSD does not automatically mean you lose your badge or your gun. Problems may only come up if a doctor or agency decides your condition makes you unsafe to carry a weapon. Many veterans with PTSD continue to serve in law enforcement.

Attorney Fees and Representation

  • Attorneys cannot charge you for filing your first claim.
  • If you appeal a denial, the attorney may charge a percentage of the past-due benefits you win (usually 20%–33%).
  • If you don’t win, you don’t owe the attorney for the appeal.

VSOs will sometimes do a wonderful job helping with filing, but attorneys can:

  • Represent you in appeals and in court.
  • Gather strong medical evidence.

Fight for the highest rating you deserve.

Other Common Questions

It usually takes a few months, but sometimes longer. If the VA asks for more evidence, it can take even more time, including years.

The VA can lower benefits if they think your condition has improved. But they must give you notice and a chance to respond before making changes.

Yes, but it depends on which type of Social Security you get.

  • VA Disability + Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI):
    You can receive both in full. VA benefits are based on your service-related condition, and SSDI is based on your work history and medical disability. They do not reduce each other.
  • VA Disability + Supplemental Security Income (SSI):
    You may receive reduced SSI. SSI is a needs-based program, so if you are getting VA compensation, it can lower or even stop your SSI payments depending on how much VA money you receive.

Veterans Benefits & Military Family Resources

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Sherrie Lim

Client Services Coordinator

Sherrie Ann Lim brings over twelve years of customer service experience and a strong background in team leadership and client support. Although she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy, her career path led her to the dynamic world of the contact center industry, where she discovered a deep passion for service, communication, and operational excellence. 

Sherrie is known for her perseverance, enthusiasm, and confident sense of responsibility. She consistently delivers high-quality results, efficiently managing tasks while remaining flexible to the evolving needs of her clients. Her commitment to continuous improvement and excellence positions her as a trusted ally for businesses seeking proactive and reliable virtual support. 

Drawing from her college background, Sherrie has a deeper understanding of the physical and emotional needs associated with aging, making her especially attuned to the importance of compassionate and informed care for the elderly. She recognizes that elder care isn’t just about physical support, it also involves emotional presence, patience, and clear communication. Her strong appreciation for family ties fuels her commitment to helping clients manage the intricacies of elder care with empathy and attentiveness, ensuring that elderly loved ones feel respected, safe, and truly cared for. 

 

She loves taking care of her family during her rest days and free time, finding joy in the simple yet meaningful routines of home life. Whether it’s preparing home-cooked meals, baking sweet treats for her kids, or tackling household projects, Sherrie finds fulfillment in creating a nurturing and organized environment for her family. Whenever time and opportunity allow, she also enjoys traveling with her family, exploring new places, creating lasting memories, and embracing experiences that strengthen their bond and bring joy into their lives. 

Fun Fact: Sherrie’s two kids were born on the exact same date—two years apart! 

May Cruz

Client Services Coordinator

May began her community service career with the Philippine Department of Health as a Computer Operator, providing vital technical support to healthcare workers across island provinces and helping to bridge technology gaps in remote medical settings. Her commitment to service extended beyond her official duties—she also volunteered in medical missions, assisting indigenous communities and contributing to the delivery of essential healthcare with empathy and cultural sensitivity. 

Continuing her dedication to public service, May later worked at a law firm as a Disability Service Coordinator, assisting military veterans in navigating disability services. She brought empathy, compassion, and heart to the role, ensuring that each veteran felt heard, respected, and supported throughout the process. 

With a unique blend of technical expertise and human-centered care, May remains deeply committed to using her skills to uplift underserved and vulnerable communities. 

Fun Fact: Despite not knowing how to swim, May is a certified open water diver. Her adventurous spirit and determination push her beyond her comfort zone—both in life and under the sea.