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"You've Earned This": What to Say to a Veteran Who Has Never Filed a VA Claim

Updated: Jun 19

By Emily Breaker

If you're reading this, chances are you know a veteran who has never filed a VA disability claim. Maybe it's you. Maybe it's a family member, friend, or fellow service member who served honorably but walked away from military service without ever pursuing the benefits they earned through their sacrifice.

This conversation happens more often than you might think. And if you're wondering what to say to encourage that veteran to take the first step, you're not alone.


The Reality: You're Not Asking for a Handout

Let's start with the most important thing you need to understand – and help them understand: VA disability benefits aren't charity. They're compensation for injuries and conditions that occurred during military service.

When you served, you signed a contract. You gave your time, your health, and sometimes pieces of yourself to protect our country. The VA disability system exists because our nation recognizes that military service comes with risks – and when those risks result in lasting impacts on your health, you deserve compensation.


Common Reasons Veterans Don't File (And Why They're Wrong)


"I'm Not Disabled Enough"

This is the big one. So many veterans think they need to be in a wheelchair or missing a limb to qualify for VA benefits. The truth? If you have any condition that started, was aggravated, or worsened during your military service, you may be eligible for compensation.

That chronic back pain from carrying heavy gear? That's a claim. The hearing loss from years of aircraft engines? That's a claim. The anxiety that started during deployment? That's absolutely a claim.


What to say: "The VA doesn't require you to be 'disabled enough' by your standards. They have medical professionals who determine the impact of your conditions. Let them make that call – not you."


"Other People Need It More Than I Do"

This mindset comes from the selfless nature that makes our veterans so special. But here's the thing – the VA isn't operating on a limited budget where your claim takes away from someone else's.


What to say: "The VA budget isn't a pie where your slice makes everyone else's smaller. Your claim doesn't take anything away from another veteran. You both deserve compensation for your service-connected conditions."


"I Don't Want to Deal with the Paperwork"

Let's be honest – the VA claims process can feel overwhelming. But here's what many veterans don't realize: you don't have to navigate it alone.


What to say: "You're right, the paperwork can be complex. But there are people and organizations specifically designed to help you through this process. You don't have to figure it out on your own."


The Conversation Starters That Actually Work


Start with Respect

"I know you're proud of your service, and you should be. Part of honoring that service is making sure you get the benefits you earned."


Make It About Family

"Your family sacrificed too while you served. These benefits can help provide security for them – isn't that worth exploring?"


Focus on the Future

"Even if you feel fine now, some service-connected conditions get worse over time. Filing a claim establishes a record and protects your future."


Use the "What If" Approach

"What if that back pain gets worse in 10 years? What if you need surgery? Having an established VA rating means you're already in the system when you need care most."


Breaking Down the Barriers


"I Don't Know Where to Start"

The solution: Connect them with resources. Organizations like Shield of Odin specialize in helping veterans navigate the VA system. We provide expert guidance through every step of the process.


"I Don't Have My Medical Records"

The solution: The VA can help obtain military medical records. And current medical evidence of conditions can be just as important as service records.


"I'm Worried About Being Denied"

The solution: A denial isn't the end of the road. Appeals exist for a reason, and many initially denied claims are eventually approved with the right evidence and representation.


The Shield of Odin Approach

At Shield of Odin, we understand that filing a VA claim can feel overwhelming. That's why we've built our services around making this process as smooth as possible for veterans.

Our TDIU Vocational Evaluations help veterans who can't work due to service-connected conditions get the individual unemployability benefits they deserve. Our Nexus Letters provide the medical evidence needed to establish the connection between your current conditions and your military service.

But more than that, we provide the guidance and support that turns "I don't know where to start" into "I'm ready to get what I've earned."


The Bottom Line

If you're talking to a veteran who has never filed a VA claim, remember this: they're not looking for someone to convince them they're broken. They're looking for someone to remind them they're valued.


The most powerful thing you can say is simply this: "You served our country, and that service matters. The benefits exist because your sacrifice was real, and the impact on your health and life is real. You've earned this, and you deserve to explore what's available to you."


Ready to Take the First Step?

If you're a veteran who's been on the fence about filing a VA claim, or if you know someone who is, we're here to help. At Shield of Odin, we provide the expert guidance and support you need to navigate the VA system with confidence.


Contact us today:



Your service mattered. Your sacrifice was real. And your benefits are waiting.

You've earned this.

 
 
 

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