Key Facts: Veterans & Mesothelioma
- Veterans account for ~30% of mesothelioma diagnoses in the U.S.
- VA disability compensation for mesothelioma pays up to $3,938.58 per month (2026 rate, 100% disability)
- Surviving spouses can receive $1,699.36 per month through VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (2026 rate)
- Meirowitz & Wasserberg is VA-accredited to file both VA claims and civil lawsuits simultaneously
- The firm has recovered $5.5M, $5.1M and $3.6M in mesothelioma verdicts for Navy veterans
How Our VA-Accredited Attorneys Help Veterans with Mesothelioma
Daniel Wasserberg holds accreditation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a VA benefits claims attorney. Few mesothelioma attorneys in the country hold this credential. Our firm pursues VA benefits and a civil lawsuit simultaneously, giving veterans multiple mesothelioma compensation options.
Our Veteran Support Services
- Free case evaluation
- Litigating mesothelioma lawsuits and negotiating settlements
- Pursuing VA benefits and legal compensation at the same time
- VA-accredited agent assistance with filing VA benefits claims
You don’t pay anything unless we win. We work on contingency, so there’s no financial risk in reaching out and we’re available to assist you 24/7.
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Special Services for Veterans with Mesothelioma
Asbestos Exposure by Military Branch
All branches of the U.S. military used asbestos for its insulating and fireproofing properties. This makes military service one of the leading sources of asbestos exposure. From shipyards to air bases, veterans encountered asbestos in barracks, vehicles, aircraft and naval vessels. Decades of widespread use across all branches left many veterans at risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases long after their service ended.
U.S. Army
The Army used asbestos in the construction of bases and barracks, so many service members encountered it in the buildings where they lived and worked. Manufacturers also used it in tanks, trucks and vehicle parts like brake pads and clutch plates. Exposure peaked from the 1930s to the 1970s.
U.S. Navy
Navy veterans may have the highest risk of asbestos exposure of all military service members. Many sailors lived in close quarters on ships where asbestos lined the piping, insulation, deck tiles and motors. Sailors who worked on the construction, repair, renovation or demolition of ships from the 1930s through the 1980s faced significant risk.
U.S. Air Force
Air Force personnel were exposed to asbestos in aircraft components like brake linings, heat shields and gaskets, as well as in maintenance hangars and military housing. Mechanics, electricians and crew members who worked on aircraft built before the 1980s faced the highest risk.
U.S. Marines
Marines served aboard Navy vessels and on military bases where asbestos use was widespread. Those stationed at Camp Lejeune, Camp Pendleton and other bases were exposed to asbestos in barracks, mess halls and vehicle maintenance facilities.
U.S. Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard used asbestos in building ships and bases and as an insulating material in engine rooms, boiler rooms and other parts of ships. Many Coast Guard service members faced significant asbestos exposure as a result.
U.S. Merchant Marine
Veterans who worked on U.S. Merchant Marine vessels faced a significant risk of asbestos exposure. Shipbuilders used asbestos widely in vessel construction, putting crew members at risk during routine operation and maintenance.
National Guard
Service also brought National Guard members into contact with asbestos. Documented cases of mesothelioma among National Guard veterans confirm exposure during training exercises, weekend drills and deployments has caused illness decades later. Even today with legacy asbestos still in training facilities, vehicles and equipment dating back to when asbestos was standard, Guard members still face risks.
VA Benefits for Veterans With Mesothelioma
Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma from military asbestos exposure are eligible for several types of VA benefits. The VA recognizes mesothelioma as a service-connected disease, which means you don’t need to prove negligence, only that asbestos exposure occurred during your service. Here’s a breakdown of the main benefit types and 2026 rates.
Veterans can pursue VA benefits and civil mesothelioma compensation simultaneously. Our firm handles both at the same time. It’s one of the key advantages of working with a VA-accredited attorney.
| Benefit Type | 2026 Monthly Rate | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| VA Disability Compensation (100%) | $3,938.58 | Service-connected mesothelioma, non-dishonorable discharge |
| Dependency & Indemnity Compensation (DIC) | $1,699.36 | Surviving spouse of a veteran whose death the VA linked to service |
| Aid & Attendance | Additional allowance | Veterans requiring caregiver assistance |
| VA Health Care | Free/low-cost | Enrolled veterans with service-connected conditions |
| Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) | Varies | Veterans with severe disabilities or specific care needs |
How to File a VA Claim for Mesothelioma
Filing a VA claim for mesothelioma doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The process follows a clear path, and a VA-accredited attorney can handle most of it for you.
How the Process Works
- Gather evidence of military service and asbestos exposure, including your DD-214, service records and buddy statements
- Obtain a mesothelioma diagnosis from a qualified physician
- File VA Form 21-526EZ, the Application for Disability Compensation
- Attend a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam if the VA requests one
- Receive your decision and appeal if necessary
The PACT Act (2022) expanded VA coverage for veterans who encountered toxic substances including asbestos during service. This makes it easier for many veterans to establish service connections.
Don’t wait to file. A VA-accredited attorney can guide you through every step at no upfront cost.
Start A Free ConsultationCompensation Options for Veterans with Mesothelioma
Veterans with mesothelioma can pursue compensation through three main options. Many veterans qualify for more than one and our firm can help you pursue all available options simultaneously.
- VA Disability Benefits: The VA offers monthly tax-free compensation for veterans with service-connected mesothelioma.
- Asbestos Trust Funds: Asbestos manufacturers set up more than $30 billion in trust funds to compensate people. Veterans can file trust fund claims separate from VA benefits. Typical payouts range from $300,000 to $400,000.
- Mesothelioma Lawsuits: Veterans can file lawsuits against asbestos manufacturers. Average settlements range from $1 million to $2 million.
Pursuing multiple options gives veterans the best chance at compensation that will help their families. Our attorneys can assess which options apply to your case. The mesothelioma statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit varies by state and filing promptly ensures you receive compensation sooner. Contact us for a free mesothelioma compensation review as soon as possible.
Why Should Veterans With Mesothelioma Work With Us?
Our firm has represented veterans and their families in mesothelioma cases across the country. We understand the unique challenges veterans face in connecting their diagnosis to military asbestos exposure and building a strong case. The cases below reflect the outcomes we’ve fought for on their behalf.
| Amount | Case Summary |
|---|---|
| $5.5M | Navy boiler tender and power company employee |
| $5.1M+ | Navy machinist’s mate turned civilian mechanic |
| $3.6M | Navy boiler tender, CIA headquarters boiler rooms |
| $3.4M+ | Navy boiler tender who passed away before giving testimony |
See more of our mesothelioma settlements.
We treat every veteran client with the respect their service deserves. You served this country, and we’re committed to pursuing the compensation you’re entitled to. There are no fees unless we win your case.
Our Qualifications
Our team brings specific experience and recognition to mesothelioma cases involving veterans. These credentials reflect years of dedicated work in mesothelioma litigation on behalf of our clients.
Our credentials include:
- Daniel Wasserberg holds VA accreditation as a VA benefits claims attorney
- Our firm has handled 300+ mesothelioma cases
- We hold licenses in TX, NY, NJ and IL
- Super Lawyers Rising Stars recognition
- Top 10 Mesothelioma Lawyers recognition
- We’ve taken on cases other firms turned down
We’ve built our reputation case by case, representing veterans and their families when it matters most. That commitment is what drives us to keep taking on the cases others won’t.
Contact Us for Your Free Case ReviewFrequently Asked Questions About Veterans and Mesothelioma
Is mesothelioma a VA disability?
Yes, mesothelioma is a VA disability. Veterans with mesothelioma who were exposed to asbestos during military service and didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge are eligible for compensation. The VA assigns mesothelioma a 100% disability rating, the highest possible. As of 2026, that entitles veterans to $3,938.58 per month in tax-free compensation. Veterans don’t need to prove negligence, only that asbestos exposure occurred during service.
What is the VA disability rating for mesothelioma?
The VA assigns mesothelioma a 100% disability rating. As of 2026, this entitles veterans to $3,938.58 per month in tax-free compensation. Veterans who require aid and attendance may also qualify for Special Monthly Compensation on top of that amount.
Can I file both a VA claim and a lawsuit for mesothelioma?
Yes. VA disability claims and civil lawsuits are separate legal processes and veterans can pursue both simultaneously. Filing VA claims requires a VA-accredited attorney. Daniel Wasserberg holds VA accreditation, so our firm can pursue both options at the same time.
Do I need a VA-accredited attorney for mesothelioma?
You need a VA-accredited attorney to file for VA disability benefits related to mesothelioma. Not all mesothelioma lawyers hold this accreditation. A VA-accredited attorney can file your VA claim and pursue a civil lawsuit simultaneously, which can help us secure all the compensation you may be eligible for.
How long do I have to file a mesothelioma claim as a veteran?
The statute of limitations to file a mesothelioma lawsuit varies by state, typically one to six years from diagnosis. VA disability claims don’t have a strict filing deadline, but filing promptly means you receive benefits sooner. Because mesothelioma has a latency period of 20 to 60 years, many veterans receive a diagnosis decades after their service. The clock starts at diagnosis, not exposure.
Can family members of veterans get compensation for mesothelioma?
Yes. Surviving spouses may qualify for VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, which pays $1,699.36 per month as of 2026. Family members may also file a mesothelioma lawsuit after death and pursue asbestos trust fund claims on behalf of a deceased veteran.
About The Author
Daniel Wasserberg
Founding Partner
Daniel Wasserberg, a founding partner of Meirowitz & Wasserberg, is a Best Lawyers-recognized and Super Lawyers-rated mesothelioma attorney with over 20 years of experience. Named a Top 100 Trial Lawyer and Top 10 Asbestos-Mesothelioma Lawyer, he leads the firm's national asbestos practice.
