Receiving a letter from DVA confirming that your condition has been accepted is a huge moment of relief and validation. After a long wait, it feels like you have finally crossed the finish line.
But what if we told you that this is actually the starting line? For many veterans, the most significant and life-changing support comes from the steps you take after this initial approval.
The "Acceptance Trap" and why It's a Costly Mistake
This is a common scenario. A veteran gets their liability claim for a condition approved. They feel a massive sense of relief, file the letter away, and assume the process is complete. This is the 'Acceptance Trap'.
An initial liability acceptance, on its own, often provides very little tangible support beyond covering medical treatment for that specific condition via a DVA White Card. The real financial and lifelong benefits are still waiting to be claimed.
Assessing your Permanent Impairment (PI)
Once your condition is accepted and has stabilised, the next logical step is to lodge a claim for Permanent Impairment, or PI.
DVA does not do this automatically. It is a separate claim you must initiate. This process assesses the long-term impact of your condition and assigns it impairment points. Successfully claiming PI can result in a significant, tax-free lump sum payment and is a primary pathway to qualifying for a DVA Gold Card.
Assessing your economic Loss (Incapacity)
The third critical step is to assess the financial impact of your condition. Ask yourself. "Has my accepted condition affected my ability to work or earn a full-time income?"
If the answer is yes, you may be eligible for incapacity payments. This is another separate claim that provides ongoing, regular payments to bridge the gap between your potential earnings and your actual earnings due to your service condition.
A liability acceptance is the key. Permanent Impairment and Incapacity claims are the doors that key is designed to unlock.
A Practical Example. The Tinnitus Claim
Tinnitus is a perfect example of this process in action.
- Step 1. Liability. A veteran gets tinnitus accepted. They can now get treatment. Many stop here.
- Step 2. Permanent Impairment. The proactive veteran then lodges a PI claim for their tinnitus. They receive an impairment rating and a lump-sum payment.
- Step 3. Secondary Conditions. The truly strategic veteran, with expert guidance, might then link their tinnitus to the anxiety it causes. They lodge a new liability claim for "Anxiety secondary to Tinnitus," starting a new, valid claim journey.
A DVA approval is a victory, but don't let it be the end of your journey. It is the foundation upon which your long-term security is built. If you have accepted conditions and are unsure of the next steps, contact us for a strategic review of your case. We can help you unlock the full support you are entitled to.
