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How Do the VA Layoffs Affect Your Disability Application?
Navigating the VA disability benefits application process for the first time can be overwhelming for anyone. But when recent news headlines announced that the Veterans Administration would be facing significant layoffs in the spring of 2025, veterans across the country were left with many questions.
Here at Wettermark Keith, we’ve heard the concerns from prospective and current clients, and we’re here to help set the record straight with everything you need to know about the recent VA layoffs, and how they affect you and your disability application.
In short, the proposed Veteran Affairs layoffs will not affect your eligibility, nor the amount of benefits you receive. However, if you are just beginning the application process, you may experience longer wait times.
Here’s everything you need to know!
Why Is The VA Laying Off Employees?
A recently leaked memo from the Veterans Administration revealed that the organization is planning a series of layoffs, starting as early as June 2025. These layoffs stem from an executive action by the Trump administration to minimize spending of taxpayer money, and create greater efficiency.
The memo mentions a goal of ideally laying off over 80,000 employees nationwide, including veterans who work in the Veterans Administration.
Applying for VA Benefits During Layoffs: What You Need To Know
So, you’re a veteran about to start the application for VA disability benefits. You probably have a lot of questions about what the process will look like and what you can expect in terms of results.
The good news? Your part of the application process will remain relatively unchanged. However, upcoming layoffs could affect the timeline and responsiveness of the VA.
We’re breaking down some of the most common questions with easy to understand answers.
How significant are the layoffs?
Layoffs have yet to begin, making the exact number difficult to estimate. What we know is that the memo mentioned a goal of laying off around 80,000 employees across the country. However, we do not know the timeline of the planned layoffs nor exactly when they will begin.
How does it affect me?
If you are planning to apply for disability benefits as a veteran, you can expect the application process to take longer than usual. With a decrease in staffing, expect longer wait times for:
- Application reviews
- Application support
- Denial reviews
Have the layoffs changed the application process?
Beyond the timeline, the benefits application process is unlikely to change. You will still fill out the forms and provide the requested information.
Keep in mind that if you are hoping to speed up the process, proper preparation is key! Failure to provide essential documentation can extend the timeline, even with current staffing numbers. Before you begin your application, it is important to make sure that you have:
- Any private medical records from doctors or hospitals who have treated you
- Medical records and documentation of any care that you have received at a VA hospital, as pertains to your current disability
- Statements from relevant personnel, including coworkers, employers, family, friends, law enforcement, or clergy with information about how the injury occurred and how it impacts your ability to earn income.
Any forms related to the specific type of disability benefits you hope to receive (you can find these on the Veterans Administration website)
Will The VA Layoffs Affect Your Benefits?
The main question on the minds of many current veterans is whether or not these proposed layoffs will affect their eligibility or the amount of compensation that they receive.
The simple answer is no, the layoffs will not affect your benefits in any way other than timeline. The amount of financial support you receive will remain the same, regardless of how long it takes your application to process.
That being said, it is important to note that if you are a current recipient of disability benefits through the VA, your pay schedule should remain unaffected by current layoffs.
My Application Has Been Denied. What Do I Do Next?
So, you’ve been denied VA disability benefits, and you think that it has been denied wrongfully. What are the next steps for you?
When you’re not accustomed to the disability application process, it’s easy to leave out key information that can affect the decision of VA officials. That being said, if you have been denied benefits, it doesn’t mean that you are out of options!
Many people choose to appeal the VA’s decision to deny their application. The best way to do this is with the assistance of an attorney who specializes in Veterans disability claims. They can help review your case and compile evidence to support your appeal. This expertise will help the process move as quickly and smoothly as possible, despite staffing shortages.
While the process of filing an appeal has not changed, you may experience longer wait and decision times as a result of the upcoming layoffs.
Will the Layoffs Affect My Denials Back Pay?
If your denial appeal is approved, you will be owed back pay by the VA. This back pay will date back to the date of your original application, rather than the date that you are denied.
Upcoming layoffs may affect wait times when it comes to receiving your backpay. That being said, no matter how long you wait, you are still owed the same amount of money.
Don’t Panic - We’ve Got You Covered!
With all the changes, it’s only natural to feel worried about how the layoffs will affect you and your eligibility for benefits. But, at the end of the day, while timelines may be affected, you should receive the same benefits that you were always owed.
If you’re currently in the application process and struggling to get your application approved, the team at Wettermark Keith is here to help! We’re one of the leading VA accredited law firms in the US, dedicated to helping you secure the benefits you deserve.
Our case consultations are always free, and you don’t pay us a cent until you win your disability benefits! Ready to get support navigating your disability application denial? Reach out to us today to get started.
YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO THIS ALONE
CONTACT VA DISABILITY LAWYERS
To learn more about our law firm, our services, how to access our veterans law resources, and more, contact us today.
You get a free consultation and we won’t charge you a dime until we’ve won your case.