Camp Lejeune is one of the largest training bases in the United States for new Marines. Camp Lejeune is still a highly active base, although it now has a dark history. From 1953 to 1987, millions of people living on this base were exposed to contaminated water supplies from two wells on the base. Sadly, these wells were shut down far too late, leading to devastating effects in the population.

Some of these effects include diseases like cancer, neurobehavioral symptoms, miscarriages, and even infertility in women. If you or someone you know drank the water at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, you might be able to file for your VA disability claim. To find out more about the specific symptoms to look out for click here. Then, you can read on below to find out how much you could expect to earn from this disability claim.

Am I Eligible To File For VA Disability?

VA disability benefits are usually given to active-duty military members or reservists or national guardsmen injured in the line of duty. VA disability benefits are dispersed through monthly checks, which are deposited directly into a person's bank account or delivered to their mailbox.

To be eligible for VA disability due to toxic water exposure at Camp Lejeune, you must meet a couple of requirements. These requirements include:

  • Exposed to water between 1953 and 1987 for at least 30 days. The VA must determine that you were exposed to the drinking water at the base for 30 consecutive days between this time period. However, you don't have to be in the military to qualify. You can qualify as a family member, civilian worker, or civilian contractor.
  • No dishonorable discharges. If you were in the military and received a dishonorable discharge, then you can upgrade your discharge status by talking with a VA rep. However, until you upgrade your status to other than honorable or honorable, you cannot get VA disability benefits. 
  • Continued disability. If you healed from your disability, such as from a previous cancer diagnosis, and now face no after-effects, then you cannot receive disability. However, chances are high that you continue to suffer from the effects of your previous illness.

How To Get Maximum Disability

To get maximum disability, you must first prove that you are eligible by following the tips above. Then, you need to prove that you require maximum compensation due to continued distress, not being able to work, or other issues.

The VA determines the amount of disability you receive every month from a pay scale given in percentages. These rates are subject to change every year. To get maximum disability, get help from a lawyer to fight on your behalf. You need to prove that the toxic water from Camp Lejeune continues to affect your daily life, and you need compensation to help cope.

Legal Advice Can Help

Lawyers are a great resource to use if your VA disability claim is denied, or if you don't know where to start. Contact a legal representative to help you file for VA disability or to file a civil lawsuit. The new PACT act also allows people to sue and ask for more compensation.