Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, and it’s almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. Among those most vulnerable to asbestos exposure are U.S. Navy veterans. For decades, asbestos was widely used in naval ships, shipyards, and bases. As a result, thousands of Navy veterans have developed mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.
For those diagnosed, one vital form of financial relief comes in the form of asbestos trust funds. These funds were established by bankrupt asbestos companies to compensate current and future victims. If you’re a Navy veteran diagnosed with mesothelioma, understanding how to file a trust fund claim is essential.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of filing a mesothelioma trust fund claim as a Navy veteran, key eligibility criteria, tips for maximizing your compensation, and the legal resources available to help you.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure in the Navy
- What Are Asbestos Trust Funds?
- Are Navy Veterans Eligible to File Claims?
- Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Mesothelioma Trust Fund Claim
- Required Documentation for Navy Veterans
- Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Should You Hire a Lawyer?
- Additional Compensation Options
- FAQs
- References
1. Understanding Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure in the Navy
Between the 1930s and the late 1970s, asbestos was extensively used in the construction and repair of Navy ships. It was found in:
- Engine and boiler rooms
- Insulation around pipes and electrical wiring
- Gaskets and valves
- Shipyards and dry docks
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Navy veterans have the highest rate of mesothelioma among all branches of the military. This is due to the tight, enclosed quarters on ships and prolonged exposure during active duty or shipyard assignments.
“The use of asbestos in naval ships was not only widespread but often mandatory in vessel construction. The confined nature of ships intensified exposure risks.”
— American Journal of Industrial Medicine
2. What Are Asbestos Trust Funds?
Asbestos trust funds were established by companies that went bankrupt under the weight of asbestos-related lawsuits. These companies were ordered by bankruptcy courts to set aside funds to compensate current and future victims.
As of 2025, over $30 billion remains in these trust funds.
Each trust fund has its own:
- Eligibility criteria
- Payout amounts
- Documentation requirements
- Filing process
Examples of major asbestos trust funds include those created by:
- Johns-Manville
- Owens Corning
- United States Gypsum
- Armstrong World Industries
These funds operate separately from lawsuits and VA benefits.
3. Are Navy Veterans Eligible to File Claims?
Yes. Navy veterans are fully eligible to file asbestos trust fund claims—even if they never worked for the asbestos company directly. What matters is that you can prove:
- You were exposed to asbestos products from a company that has a trust fund.
- You have a diagnosis of mesothelioma or another qualifying asbestos-related disease.
- The exposure occurred while you were serving in the Navy or working in shipyards.
You may be eligible to file multiple claims with different trust funds if you were exposed to products from more than one company.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Mesothelioma Trust Fund Claim
Step 1: Get a Medical Diagnosis
The first and most important step is obtaining a confirmed mesothelioma diagnosis from a qualified oncologist or pulmonologist. The trust fund will require detailed pathology and medical records.
Step 2: Gather Military Service Records
You’ll need documentation of your Navy service, including:
- DD214 discharge papers
- Ship assignments
- Roles and duties aboard ships
- Locations and dates of service
These records help link your asbestos exposure to specific ships or shipyards.
Step 3: Identify the Responsible Companies
Research is needed to match the asbestos-containing products you were exposed to with the manufacturers that now have trust funds. Common products include insulation, gaskets, pipe coverings, and cement.
This step is often performed with the help of a legal team or asbestos litigation database.
Step 4: Choose the Right Trust Funds
Based on your exposure history, you can determine which trust funds to file claims with. Each has different:
- Criteria
- Exposure thresholds
- Payment levels
You can often file with multiple trusts simultaneously.
Step 5: File the Claim
A typical claim includes:
- Diagnosis documents
- Exposure affidavits
- Navy service documentation
- Employment history (if applicable)
- Signed releases and trust-specific forms
Each trust may have a scheduled payout (fixed amount) or individual review (based on specifics of your case).
Step 6: Wait for Review and Payment
The average wait time for a claim decision is 3 to 6 months, although it varies. If approved, the payment is issued directly to you or your legal representative.
5. Required Documentation for Navy Veterans
Here’s a checklist of documents typically needed:
| Document Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| DD214 Military Discharge Form | Proof of Navy service |
| Ship Assignment Records | To show exposure sites |
| Medical Diagnosis | Confirm mesothelioma and date of diagnosis |
| Exposure Statements/Affidavits | Describe where and how you were exposed |
| Social Security Records | Verify work history if needed |
| Trust Fund Forms | Each trust has its own set of paperwork |
6. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
1. Lost Records or Incomplete Documentation
Many veterans served decades ago and may lack complete records. In this case:
- Request military records from the National Archives (https://www.archives.gov).
- Use buddy affidavits from shipmates to confirm your service and exposure.
2. Multiple Exposure Sources
You might’ve been exposed on multiple ships or shipyards. Keep detailed records and consider hiring a lawyer who specializes in military asbestos claims to assist with exposure mapping.
3. Claim Denials
Claims can be denied for:
- Missing information
- Incorrect forms
- Inadequate medical evidence
Denied claims can usually be appealed or refiled with additional documentation.
7. Should You Hire a Lawyer?
While it’s possible to file a claim on your own, many veterans choose to work with an experienced mesothelioma attorney because:
- They know which trust funds apply to your case
- They help gather documentation
- They can file multiple claims at once
- They often work on a contingency basis (no upfront fees)
Veterans who use legal help typically receive higher average compensation due to thorough case development.
“Lawyers who specialize in asbestos trust fund claims can increase your compensation by ensuring no eligible trust is missed.”
— Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation
8. Additional Compensation Options
In addition to trust funds, Navy veterans with mesothelioma may also be eligible for:
VA Benefits
- VA Disability Compensation (up to $3,600/month tax-free)
- VA Health Care
- Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
- Aid and Attendance
Apply through the VA with your diagnosis and service-related exposure evidence.
Lawsuits Against Non-Bankrupt Companies
If the asbestos company is still in business, you may be able to sue. These lawsuits are separate from trust fund claims and can result in large settlements.
Workers’ Compensation or Private Settlements
If you worked in shipyards post-service or handled asbestos as a civilian, you may qualify for state or private compensation programs.
9. FAQs
Can I file a trust fund claim and VA claim at the same time?
Yes. These are separate processes and do not conflict with one another.
Do I need to prove which ship I was exposed on?
It helps, but even generalized shipyard or shipboard exposure may qualify if documented well.
What’s the average payout from an asbestos trust fund?
Payouts vary widely, from $10,000 to over $200,000 per claim, depending on your case and the trust.
Can I file if the company went bankrupt decades ago?
Yes. That’s exactly why trust funds were set up—to ensure future claimants can still be paid.
10. References
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Asbestos Exposure
- Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation – www.curemeso.org
- National Archives – Veterans Service Records
- RAND Corporation. (2010). Asbestos Litigation: Costs and Compensation.
- American Journal of Industrial Medicine – Various Articles on Military Exposure
- Asbestos Trust Fund List (updated 2025) – https://www.asbestos.com/compensation/trust-funds/
- Environmental Working Group – Asbestos Exposure in the U.S. Navy
Final Thoughts
Filing a mesothelioma trust fund claim as a Navy veteran is your legal right—and in many cases, your best path to financial relief. With careful documentation, knowledge of your service history, and possibly legal assistance, you can successfully navigate this complex process. Don’t wait—the sooner you file, the faster you can receive the compensation you deserve.
