VA pays monthly disability compensation to Veterans for injuries or diseases related to active military service. We call these disabilities “service-related” or “service-connected.”
Surviving spouses, dependent children and dependent parents of Gulf War Veterans who died as the result of illnesses related to Gulf War service may be eligible for survivors' benefits.
Eligibility for Disability Compensation Benefits
Veterans may be eligible for disability compensation if they have a service-connected disability and were discharged under other than dishonorable conditions.
VA assumes that certain illnesses are related to qualifying military service. These are called “presumptive illnesses."
Gulf War Veterans with presumptive illnesses related to Gulf War service do not need to prove a connection between their service in the Southwest Asia theater of military operations and these illnesses.
For non-presumptive illnesses, there must be medical and scientific evidence that shows an actual connection between a Veteran’s illness and his/her military service.
Find out more about disability compensation and how much VA pays.
How to Apply
You may apply for disability compensation online.
After VA receives your application, we’ll send you a letter that explains what evidence we need in order to grant your claim. We will help you get records to support your claim. Learn more about the disability claims process.
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Additional Benefits
Veterans also may be eligible for:
- Gulf War Registry health exam: A free exam by VA for possible long-term health problems associated with Gulf War service during the 1990-1991 Gulf War, Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation New Dawn
- Health care benefits: A full range of medical benefits
- Other benefits: Home loans, vocational rehabilitation, education, and more
Surviving spouses, dependent children and dependent parents of Gulf War Veterans who died as the result of illnesses related to Gulf War service may be eligible for survivors' benefits.
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Contact VA about Benefits
By Telephone
- Toll-free Helpline: 1-800-749-8387 Press 2
- Health Care and Gulf War Registry Health Exam: 1-877-222-8387 (Ask to speak to the Environmental Health Coordinator or Patient Care Advocate)
- Compensation and Other Benefits: 1-800-827-1000
- TDD (for hearing impaired): 1-800-829-4833
In Person
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More on Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses
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