VA Disability Claims

Helping Veterans Access the Benefits They Earned Through Service

You’ve served your country, and if your service caused or worsened an injury or medical condition, you deserve fair compensation—not as a favor, but as a right. Saxey Law PLLC cuts through VA red tape and stands beside veterans across Florida and the nation through every stage of the disability claims and appeals process.

Helping Veterans Access the Benefits They Deserve

Service Should Never Leave You Struggling Alone

The VA disability system can be slow, confusing, and discouraging, especially when you’re dealing with pain, PTSD, or chronic conditions. Many veterans receive delayed decisions, unfair denials, or ratings that don’t reflect the true severity of their disabilities. Our firm is based in the Florida Panhandle, home to one of the largest military and veteran communities in the country, and we proudly support service members from Eglin, Hurlburt, Duke Field, and beyond. Because VA benefits are federal, we can advocate for veterans anywhere in Florida and throughout the country. When you work with Saxey Law, you get experienced legal support from someone who understands military life firsthand.

Who Qualifies for VA Disability?

Understanding Service Connection and Eligibility

To qualify for VA disability benefits, you must meet three requirements: veteran status, a current diagnosed disability, and a service connection showing that your military service caused or aggravated your condition. The VA recognizes many types of service-connected injuries and illnesses, from combat wounds to conditions that appear years after discharge. Some conditions even fall under “presumptive” rules, meaning the VA automatically connects them to service if certain criteria are met. Every case is unique, and we help veterans gather the evidence needed to prove service connection and obtain the correct rating.



Common VA disability claims include:

  • PTSD, depression, and anxiety disorders.
  • Hearing loss and tinnitus from noise exposure.
  • Back, neck, knee, and joint injuries from training or deployment.
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
  • Agent Orange–related conditions or Gulf War illnesses.

Our VA Claims Services

Strong Advocacy at Each Stage of Your Case

We help veterans prepare strong initial claims by gathering military service records, medical evidence, nexus letters, and buddy statements from fellow service members. A well-supported initial filing can prevent unnecessary delays and reduce the risk of denial.

If you have already been denied or underrated, we handle appeals under the Appeals Modernization Act through Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claims with new evidence, or Board of Veterans’ Appeals hearings. We also assist with rating increases, secondary conditions, and survivor benefits when applicable.

Why Choose Saxey Law for Your VA Claim?

Veteran Insight, Federal Experience, and Local Commitment

As a veteran, Tom understands the frustrations of military bureaucracy and the importance of receiving accurate, timely benefits. His service gives him an insider’s perspective on the physical and mental toll of military life—and the challenges veterans face when navigating the VA system.

We provide personal, patient, and clear communication to help clients who may struggle with PTSD, memory issues, or mobility limitations. Our representation is available statewide because VA claims are federal, and we use secure digital tools so veterans can work with us from anywhere.

Service-Connected Success Is Within Reach

Don’t Let a Denial Stop You From Getting What You Earned

Many veterans feel defeated after receiving a denial or low rating, but these setbacks are often just the beginning—not the end—of a successful claim. With the right evidence and legal strategy, it is possible to reverse bad decisions, increase your rating, or secure significant backpay. We stay persistent, organized, and proactive, ensuring that your case moves forward despite delays or obstacles. Our goal is to secure benefits that improve your quality of life and support your long-term health. Contact Saxey Law PLLC today for help with your VA disability claim or appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions – VA Disability

Answers to Common Veteran Concerns

  • What benefits do VA disability ratings provide?

    VA disability ratings determine your monthly tax-free compensation based on the severity of your conditions. Higher ratings may unlock additional benefits such as eligibility for VA healthcare, education assistance for dependents, or housing support. Some veterans qualify for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU), which pays at the 100% rate even without a 100% combined rating. We help assess which benefits you may be entitled to and build a strategy to access them.

  • My claim was denied. Should I appeal or start over?

    In most cases, appealing is the better choice because it protects your original effective date, allowing you to receive backpay for all the months you’ve been waiting. Starting over with a new claim often resets the clock and forfeits valuable retroactive benefits. Under the Appeals Modernization Act, appeals can take different forms depending on whether you have new evidence or believe the VA made an error. We help choose the right lane and manage the appeals process from start to finish.

  • How long does a VA appeal take?

    Timelines vary: Higher-Level Reviews can take several months, Supplemental Claims may take half a year depending on evidence review, and Board appeals often take a year or more. Factors such as case complexity, medical exams, and regional office workload can affect processing times. Throughout the process, we push your case forward, respond quickly to VA requests, and communicate updates clearly. Our persistence helps prevent unnecessary delays.

  • Can I work while receiving VA disability benefits?

    Yes, most veterans can work while receiving disability benefits, including those rated at 100% schedular. The main exception involves TDIU, which is meant for veterans unable to maintain substantially gainful employment due to service-connected disabilities. Working full-time may affect TDIU eligibility, but part-time or marginal work may be allowed. We advise veterans on how employment interacts with their rating or potential claim for TDIU.

  • Do I need a lawyer for a VA claim?

    While you can file a claim on your own, legal representation is extremely valuable during appeals or when seeking increased ratings. We understand VA regulations, know how to present evidence effectively, and identify errors that can significantly change your outcome. Attorneys typically work on contingency for VA appeals, meaning we only get paid if we win retroactive benefits for you. With no upfront cost, getting help is both low-risk and high-reward for most veterans.