Mesothelioma Compensation Options
Mesothelioma compensation helps patients and families recover money for medical bills, lost income, travel costs, and the long‑term financial impact of an asbestos‑related diagnosis. Because asbestos exposure often happened decades ago — and many responsible companies have since gone bankrupt — victims may qualify for multiple forms of compensation at the same time. Understanding each option helps you pursue the maximum recovery available.
Watch: Mesothelioma Compensation Options
1. Asbestos trust fund claims
Asbestos trust funds were created by companies that filed for bankruptcy after being sued for exposing workers to asbestos. These trusts hold billions of dollars set aside specifically for victims.
You may qualify if:
- You have a diagnosis of mesothelioma or another asbestos‑related disease
- You were exposed to asbestos from a company that created a trust
- You can provide basic medical and exposure evidence
Victims often file with multiple trusts, and payments are typically faster than lawsuits.
2. Mesothelioma lawsuits
Lawsuits are filed against companies that are still operating and responsible for asbestos exposure. These cases may result in:
- Settlements: Most cases settle before trial
- Trial verdicts: Higher potential payouts but less predictable
Lawsuits do not target the military or the government — only the companies that made or supplied asbestos products.
3. VA benefits for veterans
Veterans were heavily exposed to asbestos in Navy ships, shipyards, vehicles, bases, and barracks. The VA offers:
- VA disability compensation
- Special monthly compensation
- Survivor benefits for families
Veterans can file VA claims and lawsuits at the same time — they do not conflict.
4. Workers’ compensation
Some victims may qualify for workers’ compensation if exposure happened on the job. However:
- Benefits vary by state
- Payments are usually smaller than lawsuits or trust funds
- Workers’ comp may limit your ability to sue your employer
Many victims pursue workers’ comp only when other options are unavailable.
5. Personal injury claims
A personal injury claim is filed by someone diagnosed with mesothelioma. Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Travel and caregiving costs
6. Wrongful death claims
Families can file a wrongful death claim if a loved one passed away from mesothelioma. These claims may provide compensation for:
- Funeral expenses
- Loss of income
- Loss of companionship
- Medical bills
7. Insurance claims
Some victims receive compensation through:
- Life insurance
- Long‑term disability insurance
- Private health insurance reimbursements
How compensation amounts are determined
Compensation varies widely based on:
- Type of claim (trust fund, lawsuit, VA, etc.)
- Strength of exposure evidence
- Medical documentation
- State laws and filing deadlines
- Number of companies responsible
FAQ: Mesothelioma compensation
Can I file multiple types of claims?
Yes. Most victims pursue several compensation options at the same time.
How long does compensation take?
Trust fund claims may take months; lawsuits vary but often settle within a year.
Do I need a lawyer?
Most victims work with attorneys who specialize in asbestos cases to maximize compensation.
Does filing a claim cost anything upfront?
Most asbestos attorneys work on a contingency fee — no upfront cost.
Conclusion: Multiple paths to financial support
Mesothelioma compensation can come from several sources, and most victims qualify for more than one. Understanding your options — and gathering strong medical and exposure evidence — helps ensure you receive the financial support you deserve.