Navy Mesothelioma Survivor Benefit: What You Need to Know

Are you a Navy veteran who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma? If so, you may be entitled to survivor benefits. Mesothelioma is a life-threatening illness caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos was heavily used in naval ships, putting Navy veterans at a higher risk for developing mesothelioma. In this article, we’ll explain what the Navy mesothelioma survivor benefit is and how you can apply for it.

What is the Navy Mesothelioma Survivor Benefit?

The Navy mesothelioma survivor benefit provides financial compensation to the survivors of Navy veterans who died from mesothelioma. This benefit is available to the surviving spouse, children, or dependent parent of a Navy veteran who passed away due to mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure during service. The amount of compensation varies based on several factors, including the veteran’s rank, years of service, and the date of their death.

Who is Eligible for the Benefit?

To be eligible for the Navy mesothelioma survivor benefit, you must meet the following requirements:

Requirement	Details
Relationship to Veteran	You must be the surviving spouse, child, or dependent parent of a Navy veteran who passed away due to mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure during service.
Time of Service	The veteran must have served on active duty in the U.S. Navy and been exposed to asbestos during his or her service.
Date of Death	The veteran must have died due to mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure during service.

How to Apply for the Benefit?

To apply for the Navy mesothelioma survivor benefit, you must submit the following documents to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA):

• Proof of Navy service, such as discharge papers or service records
• Death certificate of the veteran
• Medical evidence of the mesothelioma diagnosis and its relationship to asbestos exposure during service
• Marriage certificate, birth certificate, and/or adoption papers to prove relationship to the veteran
• Dependent children must also provide proof of school attendance, dependency, and unmarried status (if over 18 years old)

After submitting the required documents, the VA will review your application and determine your eligibility for the benefit.

FAQs About the Navy Mesothelioma Survivor Benefit

1. What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and naval ships.

2. How long does it take to receive the benefit?

The processing time for the application can vary, but it typically takes several months to receive a decision from the VA.

3. Is the benefit taxable?

No, the Navy mesothelioma survivor benefit is not considered taxable income.

4. Can I apply for the benefit if the veteran died from a cause other than mesothelioma?

No, the Navy mesothelioma survivor benefit is only available to the survivors of veterans who died from mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure during service.

5. Can I receive other benefits in addition to the Navy mesothelioma survivor benefit?

Yes, you may be eligible for other benefits, such as Dependency and Indemnity Compensation or Survivor’s Pension, depending on your circumstances.

6. Can I appeal a decision if my application is denied?

Yes, you have the right to appeal a decision if your application is denied. You can submit additional evidence or request a hearing to present your case.

7. What if I have questions about the application process?

You can contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000 to speak with a representative who can assist you with the application process.

Conclusion

If you are a survivor of a Navy veteran who died from mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure during service, you may be entitled to the Navy mesothelioma survivor benefit. This benefit provides financial compensation to help ease the burden of losing a loved one. Applying for the benefit can be a complex process, but it is worth it to secure the benefits you are entitled to. We encourage you to take action and apply for the benefit today.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. We hope it has been informative and helpful. Please share this information with others who may benefit from it. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or legal advice. Mesothelioma is a serious illness, and if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with it, we encourage you to consult with a medical professional and a mesothelioma lawyer to discuss your options.