In 2025, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) continues to provide disability benefits for veterans who suffer from injuries or diseases related to their military service. If you’re a veteran, understanding what conditions are covered is key to securing the benefits you may be entitled to. The VA covers a wide range of health issues, from physical injuries to mental health conditions.
1. Musculoskeletal Conditions
If you’ve suffered injuries to your bones, joints, or muscles while serving, the VA provides compensation for conditions like arthritis, back and neck injuries, fractures, and amputations. These are common injuries among veterans, particularly those who served in combat zones.
2. Neurological Disorders
Veterans who have experienced brain injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or who suffer from conditions like epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis can receive disability benefits. The VA recognizes the long-term impact these conditions can have on veterans’ lives.
3. Respiratory Issues
Conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, and pulmonary fibrosis are also covered. Many of these issues result from toxic exposure during service, and the VA aims to help veterans manage these life-altering conditions.
4. Cardiovascular Diseases
Heart-related conditions are another area the VA covers. If you’ve been diagnosed with hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, or had a heart attack while serving, you may be eligible for compensation.
5. Mental Health Disorders
Mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder are common among veterans, especially those who experienced combat. The VA is committed to providing the necessary support and benefits to veterans struggling with these conditions.
6. Sensory Impairments
If you have hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or vision problems due to your service, these conditions are covered under VA benefits. Veterans often face these issues after being exposed to loud noises or hazardous environments during their military careers.
7. Gastrointestinal Disorders
Veterans may experience gastrointestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which the VA recognizes as service-related conditions.
8. Endocrine Disorders
Diabetes, thyroid issues, and other endocrine conditions are also covered. These diseases can be caused or worsened by environmental factors during military service, including exposure to chemicals or hazardous materials.
9. Skin Conditions
Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and disfiguring scars can also be covered by VA benefits. Many veterans develop these skin conditions due to prolonged exposure to harsh environments during their service.
10. Infectious Diseases
Veterans who contracted diseases like hepatitis, tuberculosis, or HIV/AIDS during their time in service are entitled to receive benefits for these conditions.
11. Reproductive and Sexual Health Issues
Conditions related to reproductive health, including infertility, erectile dysfunction, and menstrual issues, are covered. These health challenges can be linked to military service and certain treatments veterans underwent during their careers.
12. Toxic Exposure-Related Conditions
Thanks to the PACT Act signed into law in 2022, the VA expanded benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances such as burn pits, Agent Orange, and other hazardous materials. If you’ve been affected by these exposures, you might now be eligible for new benefits.
How to Apply for VA Benefits
The VA continuously updates its list of eligible conditions, and veterans are encouraged to stay informed. If you believe your condition qualifies, it’s crucial to apply for VA disability benefits and consult a VA representative who can guide you through the process. For more information, veterans can visit the official VA website or reach out to local VA offices for personalized assistance.
