Disability Benefits for World War II Veterans
Our World War II veterans truly defined the “Greatest Generation.” Their service and sacrifice forever changed the world, and it’s impossible to thank them enough for their efforts.
Although many surviving WWII veterans are now in the late stages of their lives, they still deserve all the benefits and care available to them so they can spend time in peace with their families. Rob Levine Law is here to advocate for our veterans every step of the way.
On this page, our trusted veterans disability attorneys will explain what benefits are available for WWII veterans and how to obtain them. If you or a loved one needs help securing disability benefits, contact us online or call (800) 742-3920 today for a free consultation.
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Legally Reviewed by:
Last Updated:
October 2, 2025
Table of Contents
- Types of Disability Benefits Available for World War II Veterans
- Eligibility for Disability Benefits for World War II Veterans
- How World War II Veterans Can Apply for Disability Benefits
- Common Challenges in the Claims Process for World War II Veterans
- Why Choose Rob Levine Law for Your World War II Veteran Disability Benefits Case?
- Hear from Our Satisfied Clients
- World War II Benefits FAQS
Types of Disability Benefits Available for World War II Veterans
World War II veterans have access to VA health care and are exempt from copays, premiums, or other related costs. Other available benefits may include:
- Disability compensation
- Burial costs
- Education and training
- Home loan assistance
- Life insurance coverage
- Pension benefits
- Special monthly compensation
- Vocational rehabilitation and employment assistance
There are specific benefits available for qualified “Atomic Veterans,” defined as those involved in an above-ground nuclear test between 1945 and 1962 or who were stationed or held near Hiroshima or Nagasaki. Some low-income WWII veterans living outside the United States may also be eligible for special benefits through the Social Security Administration.
Eligibility for Disability Benefits for World War II Veterans
If you served between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946, you are eligible for no-cost health coverage through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Special monthly compensation may be available for veterans with severe disabilities or those requiring assistance to meet their daily needs.
Eligible veterans can receive an Atomic Veterans Service Certificate, or AVSC, formally recognizing their radiation exposure. The certificate may also potentially serve as evidence for further benefits. Certain conditions, such as cancer, are presumed to be related to ionizing radiation exposure and may entitle the veteran to disability compensation without the need to prove a service connection.
Those involved in domestic nuclear weapons tests before 1963 also may be eligible for up to $100,000 in benefits under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act.
How World War II Veterans Can Apply for Disability Benefits
The fastest way to apply for VA disability benefits is to complete an application online, but you also can mail your application or submit it in person. Contacting a lawyer with experience handling VA claims can help you navigate the process with minimal stress and improve your overall chance of success.
Local Veterans Service Organizations, or VSOs, can also provide application assistance if necessary. Some prominent VSOs include:
Common Challenges in the Claims Process for World War II Veterans
Between the sheer amount of time that has passed and age-related issues, some WWII veterans may face challenges applying for VA disability benefits. Some potential problems include:
- Incomplete or lost records: Because many decades have passed since WWII veterans began their service, some important records may be harder to find.
- Advances in medical science: Medicine has evolved significantly since WWII. Medical understanding at the time of the war may have been limited. Thus, some injuries or illnesses might not have been properly diagnosed at the time.
- Lack of documented in-service events: Similarly, it may be difficult to find enough evidence to connect a WWII veteran’s disability with their service.
- Cognitive decline and memory loss: For some aging vets, it may be hard to navigate the application process alone or even understand what benefits are available for their needs.
- Mental health stigma: Some veterans may feel ashamed of suffering from a mental illness, discouraging them from seeking help.
- Complex digital systems: Having grown up before computers, some veterans may have trouble applying for benefits online without assistance.
Why Choose Rob Levine Law for Your World War II Veteran Disability Benefits Case?
Rob Levine has tirelessly advocated for disabled veterans for more than 25 years. As a former military police officer, Rob appreciates our service members’ sacrifices and is dedicated to getting them the compensation and benefits they deserve. The Rob Levine Law team has more than 75 years of combined experience and has helped more than 50,000 people recover over $2 billion in disability benefits and injury compensation.
Win or no fees™, that’s the Fee Free Guarantee®. Contact us online or call (800) 742-3920 today to schedule a free consultation. We’re available around the clock to take your call and answer your questions.
Hear from Our Satisfied Clients
He truly cares about veterans and goes above and beyond to make things right.
For years, I struggled through all the forms, paperwork, and lengthy questions, all the while the entire process continued to go from bad to worse. Most recently, I had a reduction on a permanent condition that only gets progressively worse, just because I was having a rare, good day at the C&P exam. That was when I reached out to Rob Levine Law. Simon Kelly was assigned to my case, and I have never regretted my decision. He is very responsive, calls whenever I have a question or concern, and keeps me updated on all developments every step of the way. Thank you, Simon, you are very much appreciated!
Claytor W.
Rob Levine Law has been a huge help with my VA claim.
Her knowledge of the process and her understanding of the military experience in general have made this a much easier time for me. She values and appreciates veterans, so I am lucky to have her represent me.
Dave D.
Thank you, everyone, for the continued support!
As a military veteran, I have pursued a disability claim on my own and with multiple NSOs. While my disability was +50%, it was obvious to me a law firm was necessary to help navigate the appeal process and all the details involved with it. I was astounded at how knowledgeable the firm was about my particular case and how hard-working and persistent they are with the case. Since working with Rob Lavine Law, my disability rating has increased, and I am confident it will continue to climb. The attorney I work closest (Dvora) with is a great communicator, responsive, patient, and has superior listening skills.
Meghann G.
World War II Benefits FAQS
Do World War II Veterans Receive Priority Access to VA Health Services?
WWII veterans automatically qualify for VA “priority group 6” status and can be placed at a higher priority level if eligible.
Can Family Members Assist World War II Veterans With the Benefits Application Process?
Yes, you can help a World War II veteran in your family apply for VA disability benefits. You can also file a “buddy statement” to support their claim.
Can I Receive Compensation for Mental Health Conditions Such as PTSD as a WWII Veteran?
Yes, WWII veterans can get disability benefits for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, that developed from a “traumatic event” during their service.
What Types of Disabilities are Considered Service-Connected for World War II Veterans?
Any type of disability can be considered service-connected if you have sufficient evidence to show that it resulted from an event during your time in the military. Some disabilities are considered “presumptive conditions” in certain situations, meaning you don’t need to prove a service connection to get benefits. For some “Atomic” World War II veterans, cancer and some other diseases are presumptive conditions.
How Do I Apply for Burial Benefits as a World War II Veteran?
You can apply for burial benefits online by following the VA’s instructions here. You must provide the deceased veteran’s Social Security number, burial date, and other information.
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Notable Case Results
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Veterans livining in Providence after years of serving in the US Air Force in the early 1980s she suffered from PTSD and was a sexual misconduct victim in the service. Our firm won over a million dollars in back benefits for the vet.
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Veteran living in Portsmouth RI had suffered hearing loss, PTSD and HTN from his time in the Army we were able to get him nearly $200,000 in back benefits.
$145,000
Veteran of the Army living in Exeter RI, suffered injries during the time as a demolition specialist. In the 1960s the veteran was exposed to things that left him with permanent hearing and vision loss, headaches, arthritis and a TBI. We earned the veteran over $140,000 in back benenfits.
$110,000
Navy veteran living in Quincy MA served in the 1960s was exposed to chemicals that caused prostate cancer. He suffered from a TBI as well and was granted TDIU. We earned the client $110,000 in back benefits.
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