🪖 Understanding VA Disability Ratings for Asbestos Diseases

Veterans exposed to asbestos during service may qualify for VA disability compensation if they develop mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis.
This guide explains how the VA determines your disability percentage, what it means for your monthly payments, and how to maximize your rating.

📞 Need help reviewing your VA rating or increasing your benefits? Call 800.291.0963 today.

🎖️ Step 1: What VA Disability Ratings Represent

The VA uses disability ratings (from 0% to 100%) to measure how much a service-connected illness affects your ability to work and live independently.

Each percentage corresponds to a monthly benefit amount and eligibility for additional support programs.

In asbestos-related cases:

• Mesothelioma and lung cancer typically receive 100% disability ratings due to their severity.

• Asbestosis and pleural disease ratings vary based on lung function test results.

💡 Your rating determines both your monthly payment and the level of VA medical care you receive.

🩺 Step 2: How VA Ratings Are Determined

The VA considers medical evidence, pathology reports, and diagnostic testing.

Key factors include:

• 🧬 Diagnosis type (mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis).

• 🩻 Pulmonary function test (PFT) results, such as FEV1, DLCO, and FVC scores.

• 🧫 Imaging findings from CT scans or X-rays.

• ⚕️ Severity of symptoms—shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, or weight loss.

• 🧾 Impact on employment and daily life activities.

📈 The more evidence showing your condition limits your life and work, the higher your potential rating.

💰 Step 3: Typical VA Ratings for Asbestos Diseases

🧠 Even partial disability ratings can lead to substantial monthly compensation and health care access.

⚖️ Step 4: How Ratings Affect Monthly Compensation

As of 2025, VA compensation for a 100% disability rating is approximately $3,900 per month for a single veteran — more if you have dependents.

Additional benefits may include:

• 🏥 Full VA health care coverage for treatment and medications.

• 💵 Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) for advanced conditions.

• 🏠 Aid & Attendance benefits if you need help with daily activities.

• 🎖️ Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for surviving spouses.

💡 Ratings can also unlock access to education, home loans, and caregiver programs.

🗂️ Step 5: Increasing or Appealing a VA Rating

If you believe your asbestos-related disease is underrated or was wrongly denied:

• 🔄 File for an increased rating if symptoms worsen.

• 🧾 Submit new medical evidence such as updated PFT results or physician letters.

• ⚖️ File a VA appeal (Supplemental Claim or Higher-Level Review).

• 🧑‍💼 Work with a VA-accredited attorney or claims agent for the best chance of success.

📈 Veterans who appeal often see higher ratings once new evidence is considered.

🪪 Step 6: How to Strengthen Your Rating Application

✅ Provide complete medical documentation—CT scans, pathology, and lung test results.
✅ Include a nexus letter from your doctor linking asbestos exposure to your diagnosis.
✅ Detail how your condition affects work, mobility, or daily living.
✅ Attach military service evidence proving asbestos exposure (e.g., ship duty, base assignments).
✅ Get professional help from advocates familiar with VA asbestos claims.

📞 Where to Get Help

Our advocates specialize in helping veterans and families with asbestos-related VA claims.
They can help you gather documentation, appeal ratings, and secure the full benefits you’ve earned.

👉 Call 800.291.0963 now for free help reviewing your VA disability rating or starting a new claim.

🧾 Summary

Understanding VA disability ratings is key to ensuring you receive the compensation and care you deserve.
Mesothelioma and asbestos-related diseases often qualify for the highest benefits, but strong evidence and accurate filings make the difference.

You served your country—make sure your benefits reflect your service and sacrifice.
📞 Call 800.291.0963 today.