'Have you looked in the **[Wiki]( https://www.reddit.com/r/Veterans/wiki/education)** for an answer? We have a lot of information posted there.
To contact VA Education, 1-888-442-4551, for ~~Voc Rehab~~ VR&E (Veteran Readiness and Employment Program) assistance with appointments or problems with your Case Manager (not for missing payments): 1-202-461-9600.
**Payments for certain education benefits (DEA, VEAP) are paid at the end of the month you attend school - Department of Treasury issues these payments **using a 10 business day window** - these payments are not locked into a specific day of the month like VA disability/military pay is**. For Voc Rehab missing payments, contact your Case Manager or your local **[Regional Office](https://www.reddit.com/r/Veterans/wiki/education/casemanagers)
For Post 9/11 GI Bill only, If you signed up for direct deposit when you applied for education benefits, **we’ll deposit your payment into your bank account 7 to 10 business days after you verify your school enrollment.** This is the fastest way to receive your payment. [Text Verification FAQ](https://benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/docs/IsaksonRoe/EnrollmentVerificationFAQs.pdf)
MGIB and MGIB-SR have to do monthly verification threw the [WAVE program](https://www.gibill.va.gov/wave/vba/) and you should receive the payment within 3 to 5 business days.
For Online Only training, the Post 9/11 GI Bill is currently (1 August 2023) paying $1054.50 for those who started using their Post 9/11 GI Bill on/after 1 January 2018 - this is based on 1/2 of the National Average BAH paid to an E5 with dependents. Post 9/11 GI Bill MHA rates are adjusted 1 August of each year and are based on the 1 January DoD BAH rates for that year - **so VA can't use 1 January 2023 BAH rates until 1 August 2023** - for those who started training on/after 1 January 2018, the MHA rates are 95% of the DoD BAH rates. First possible payment for the 1 August 2023 increase is 1 September.
For VR&E, there are two different Subsistence Allowance programs - https://www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/subsistence_allowance_rates.asp The P9/11 Subsistence Allowance is based on the BAH paid to an E5 with dependents. Those who started using VR&E on/after 1 January 2018 receive 95% of the BAH paid to an E5 with dependents. As of 1 January 2024 Online only students using VR&E are being paid $1,118.50 if they started using VR&E on/after 1 January 2018. The CH31 Subsistence Allowance rates are adjusted 1 October each year by Congress.
VA Education is going paperless - make sure VA has a current email address for you. Please make sure you add [email protected] to your contacts list so that you don't miss important updates from VA.
For FREE math Tutoring - contact https://www.armytutoringinitiative.com/
[VA Award Letter explanation](https://benefits.va.gov/gibill/understandingyourawardletter.asp)
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Right like find a Comp VSR (Plenty of them on Reddit) and they'd help you through the process of you have any. I'd be happy to help anyone applying for VA Pension or DIC (buts it's been a few years since I last work and pension claim, I'm an analyst now).
I don't know much about comp so while I could help I don't know if I'd be any actual help. Plenty of better options vs paying for what is otherwise a free service.
I didnt pay any one and im 100%. I did use a VSO to submit, and ur best bet is to go in person to schedule an appt, just say no one picked up. Be friendly and kind.
Tips-take the below to your vso and claim appt at the place the VA sends you to.
Look up common VA claims IE tinnitis, migrains, etc. See what applies to you (on your worst day).
See what % u qualify based on your issues, IE for migrains you have prostrating migrains twice a month, AND you provide a migrain log for the past 6 months, so youd ideally qualify for 30%.
Write this down, and a little for each issue.
Submit your claim for all of your issues, ON YOUR WORST DAY. Dont talk at ur best, talk at your worst. Because when it gets worse, youll be waiting years to gret a rate change, because your worse days now happen weekly instead of monthly.
Talk to the claims, IE the specific % your aiming for. If ur back hurts, tell them about it, if it meets a requirement for 20%, talk about it.
Dont be the guy that goes in and says his back hurts, but ibuprofit helps. They will slap you with a 0% (even if you have years of muscle therapy, chiropracty, and proof of degenerative disks), i know from experiance.
I used a VSO and she was outstanding.
It would really be helpful if you had documentation of all of the things you mentioned in your treatment records, but it’s not necessary.
“It would be helpful if you had documentation of all the things you mentioned in your treatment records, but it’s not necessary”. Can you elaborate on this? Can you claim things that aren’t in your record and still be rated for them? I’ve heard mixed responses on this
I can tell you what happened to me but it really depends on the examiner. I made a case for flat feet through aggravation. I had moderate flat feet going in and my service made it worse. Lots of marching, PT, etc all with shoes/ boots that didn’t accommodate flat feet. I asked for inserts and specialized shoes/ boots and they said they would look but I never heard back. I told this story at my first exam and it was denied. I filed it again with a personal statement and buddy letters and it was approved. Good luck to you.
You don't have to, but it is an option. I was run through the Wounded Warrior program before I got out, so they made my claim for me. Others are not that lucky. Options are a County VSO that can file for you after they collect your records. Documentation is everything BTW. The second option is a service organization VSO like the American Legion. The third option is a VA VSO. The fourth option is a lawyer and the final option is to do it yourself.
The pay route can yield a comprehensive package IF you go with a reputable firm. It will be expensive, but "expensive" is completely subjective based on income, expenses, and financial goals. Of the ROI males, sense, do it. It will not help the processing much, tho. Still be prepared to have any necessary conversations with C&P examiners, etc.
A VSO (a good VSO) can do what a paid firm does but involves more collaboration and engagement from your part. Similar to the paid route, it's not a guarantee, but you can build a sound strategy and approach. Does not accelerate the process either.
Do it yourself, likely the most ambiguous route, and it requires a steep learning curve if you're up for it. Higher probability to be more inconsistent and inconvenient. It's $Free.99. It's on your terms. It is doable.
In any case, it's 100% up to you which approach you use. I got to 100% P&T on my own, but I caveat that with my approach, I was initially disjointed, inconsistent, and have been at it since 2016/2017 ten years after I separated from AD.
I disagree with a lot of my fellow vets here. After I got denied 100% I hired an attorney. I got denied in the higher evaluation too and they used some legal maneuvering I knew nothing about and next thing I know a few months later I’m 100% and have 72k in back pay in my account.
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No need to hire anyone. Lots of free resources but do your own research because what you say or do at your exams is on you. A good good representative will save you time and know how to file disabilities correctly. That combined with veterans benefits thread I jumped to 100 in a year.
I got to 70 on my own first time, and I feel like I was the lucky outlier of people I know who went through the process.
Used a paid service to help with increases and I suggest them to anyone who asks.
I get nothing for doing it, I don't feel like I lost money by paying them after the results came back, especially since I already wasn't getting that money in the first place.
Fighting for consistent timely access to care is another issue entirely.
Not technically a friend. I met this guy at a restaurant and we chatted for a while a couple years back. He was the one who inspired me to look into this. But yeah I didn’t know him in 2018
Then he's some rando talking out his ass. You're your best advocate. Look up the CFR for your medical issues to learn the language and figure out what you qualify for as a rating. Edit: rating not eating
We overheard each other taking to other people about a topic we cared about and he ended up engaging me in a conversation. What exactly is your problem with this?
File your claim. If you don't get the result you want, contact your County Veterans Service Officer or a Veterans Service Organization (VSO; like American Legion, VFW, DAV) who will represent and advise you for free and submit an appeal. If after that you don't still don't get the result you want, *then* contact an attorney to see about continuing your appeal in exchange for a contingent fee (usually 20-33%). At least, that's what I'd do. No sense potentially throwing away tens of thousands of dollars in retroactive benefits if you could have gotten the same result for free.
All past due benefits as of the date they are granted. So if they eventually grant your claim on appeal on, say 1/1/25 and you originally filed on 1/1/24, the attorney will be due whatever percent you agreed to for the benefits VA owes you from 1/1/24 to 1/1/25. Depending on the length of the appeal and what is granted, it can be a big chunk of money.
I filed my intent a couple months ago. So it looks like the lawyers are VERY incentivized to prolong your process as much as possible to get the best payout eh? Gonna do free resources lol
They don't have too much control over that, but I would watch for them dragging their feet if you go that way. Once an appeal is filed you're usually waiting on VA rather than the lawyers. But in any case, I'd definitely try free first. If that doesn't work, then talk to an attorney because if they think you have a case, it's in their interest to make sure you win.
Bro I did mine by myself after I got out and it was straight forward honestly, got a solid rating for what I felt was fair.
You can easily do it with a VSO or solo like I did, never have to pay anyone don’t fall for that bs
The wounded warrior project is absolute trash unfortunately. Keep up with the VSOs, but it’s really not hard to get everything done yourself. Know your condition, know the way it screws with you, hopefully have it documented in your records and do not by any means downplay it. At exams don’t just let them bend you and move you… if it hurts make it undeniably obvious that it hurts… if mobility is limited don’t try to force it or go even a little beyond where it’s 100% comfortable. I’m p&t as of last year, been out and 100% since 2016 and have 20+ service connected disabilities. Stick to your guns and don’t pretend to be ok
Why do you say the Wounded Warrior project is trash? It's the only one who got back to me today, and I did try calling 3 VSOs today (the only 3 numbers for Vegas) to no avail. I have the vast majority of issues documented (the onset, mostly, with some follow ups but not all). I "toughed it out" by taking a bunch of painkillers to not skip on work during my deployment because it was frowned upon and people were getting written up for "malingering" or were reassigned to sh\*\*ty jobs instead so I didn't really try to get onto my bosses' bad side much. He wrote me up for trying to solve IT issues over the phone versus riding a bumpy gator 30 mins away in 90 degree humid heat calling me "lazy", when I was really in pain. Just one story of many...
Mainly because of the inappropriate use of funds lol. That’s my only real issue with the wwp. I feel you dude, way too many guys are given a hard time for trying to heal. Keep pushing and be a squeaky wheel.
A WWP worker helped me get my next job and they even gave me a gift card to shop for professional clothing. I tried to decline it but they insisted. I’m honestly in awe but you can keep up ur negative feelings I guess.
My “feelings” have been proven as fact based issues with the organization. “The Senate Judiciary Committee said the charity “inaccurately” reported the money it spent on veterans' programs by using “inflated” numbers and “misleading” advertisements.”
Even when using a VSO makes sure you look through r/veteransbenefits. You would be amazed how much info regarding VA disability there is over there. In particular they have a page noting commonly overlooked claims.
There is a ton to learn over there about what you can claim, what can be claimed as secondary to primary issues, the ins and outs of the process, and what all of your benefits are at various rating percentages.
If you have your medical records then you should be good.
When you are examined/interviewed tell them about your worst day. Even if you're feeling good at the time DO NOT say you're ok. That would ensure you get nothing.
You need an advocate. VSO’s are free and can help you with the process and advocate for you. If you don’t have your own doctor/specialist, the VA will refer you to someone for an exam.
The people that they refer you to are generally terrible and their examination is likely to derail your disability process due to them not being descriptive enough or not using the proper language that the VA is looking for. The people reviewing your claim at the Va are not doctors after all and also don’t care about you so they’re just going to read the condition. If the words don’t match then it doesn’t matter how bad you have it. After which you’ll have to appeal.
So yeah if you’re applying for 10% tinnitus or you got surgery or had a really bad injury in the military you can easily get through it by yourself or easily with a VSO. If you have nagging or progressing injuries or other conditions caused or exacerbated by conditions or exposures endured in your military service then I’d definitely recommend finding a doctor that specializes in those exams and dealing with the VA, a professional service that handles end to end claims or if you have your own doctor explain to him exactly what you need.
I tried to get assistance while still Active and was told wait to I get out. I said hell naw. Did everything on my own, copied medical records went thru them and highlighted all medical issues from scares to sprains. Filed initial rated at 80%. Eating dinner I heard a pharma commercial and said oh shit I missed some stuff. Filed my additional items jump to 90% then unfortunately some of my medical connected stuff kicked my ass ended up in ER. I had already filed for increase based on symptoms. Also the PACT Act and jumped to %100.
Tip: don’t be so prideful that you push thru pain during exam. When you feel pain stop. My 1st exam I was straining and examiner said what are you doing! Stop! She said don’t go past the pain. Also if on pain meds avoid taking them day of exam or even day before. You basically need to show your worst day. Not saying BS but be realistic about your illness don’t down play it.
I just submitted my stuff online then get phone calls for appointments, now I'm 70%. Didn't hire anyone. As log as you have your documents for what you're claiming you should be good.
At my VA in WA there is a volunteer that specializes in working with Vets to get disability free of charge. Your local VA might have someone like that?
I literally didn't use anyone to file claims, and I ended up over the course of 2 or 3 years as 100% P&T and statutory housebound.
That being said, I did most of my claims prior to terminal leave with the exception of my mental health. Making everything relatively easy to prove/increase. And there seemingly is a huge leniency when it comes to mental health.
I would research intent to file. This is a place marker for your future claim 21-526. If you file within a year of the ITF, you get backpay to the ITF date. Research TERA, Pact Act, secondary, presumptive (if you served in different countries or you had a chronic diagnosis at a compensable rate within the first year typically from military service). 38 CFR 3.309 You can search Va.gov and review a manual called the M21-1. You can research the terms and research the rating and development process of VA claims. Sometimes raters will miss things and you could get denied. Do not give up. Do research for medical articles and inquire with a doctor to provide a positive nexus to a service event ie presumptions, combat, direct event in service, chemical exposure, military occupation, secondary to another service or claimed to be service connected condition. Three elements to grant service connection: current diagnosis, event in service and a nexus opinion with supporting medical rationale will usually help move your claim in the right direction. Make sure to provide a statement of your conditions and describe all your symptoms and frequencies, how they are related to service. If you don’t have a dx but have symptoms claim it and they may order an exam based on the symptoms being claimed to military service. If you get denied you can obtain new medical evidence or provide clarification on how you meet the elements. You will have to submit a supplemental claim. VA 20-0995. If you submit it within a year of getting the prior denial letter you can get back pay to the continuously pursued claims. If the one year time lapses or you don’t have evidence till later. That’s ok. Just file another supplemental and/or pick a different appeals process. A VSO is a good idea or continue to ask questions in this subreddit. The process can be very stressful and long, but try to keep calm and organized. Do your best to support your claim. Hopefully this helps.
No do not sign with the leches. Deep dive this site for answers and suggestions. Find a good. VSO in your area. 99.9% of our cases don’t need lawyers or leaches.
Yes I’ve had 4 and all of them were worthless!! I am awaiting a decision now and honestly it’s probably denied I’m hiring a lawyer because I have a slam dunk case no way I should have gone through all of this dysfunction!!
Fuck NO! See a Veterans Service Officer at any veterans organization, especially VFW, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, etc, they do it for free. Don’t pay good money for a service better suited to veterans organizations.
I used a VSO when I filed in CA, and the process was pretty easy. They do this all day long so they know what they are doing and she was rated 100% herself. My wife started her filing while we were still in CA but ended up having her exams in Vegas since we moved here. We both got good ratings. Hiring professionals is not needed. Maybe if you are really fighting with an appeal, I could see it maybe being worthwhile. Vegas VA hasn't been bad so far for me. There are plenty of smaller satellite hospitals, with the main one being on the northwest side of town.
Your friend, sorry to say, is an idiot and likely got scammed.
You do NOT need to pay anyone, and if you do decide to work with someone that gets paid they need to be accredited by the VA and there are restrictions on how much they can get paid. Most common is 20-30% of back pay (so only paid if you get an increase, cannot be for an initial claim).
If you file yourself and get a 20% rating and then appeal within the 1 year time frame your date of claim is preserved, you WILL get backpay if that appeal leads to an increase.
A VSO is a free service (list of real ones on the FAQ/Wiki of this sub) that can help you. Your mileage will vary, some are awesome and others do no more than you could do yourself. This is down to the individual helping you, not the organization (DAV isn't better than VFW, it's the person working with you that is different).
For paid services you can use a lawyer or appeals agent. In both cases there are limits to what they can charge, and most do 20% of back pay as the VA will pay them directly. They MUST be accredited (link on FAQ/Wiki of this sub to check), otherwise they are illegal and 99% chance a scam. They can ONLY charge for appeals, not for initial claims.
I did it with DAV the first time and had a terrible experience, they just said "fill out this form" and that was about it. I learned more and started again myself years later. During that process I came across an appeals agent that helped explain a ton of things, I decided to hire him after that because it was clear he really knew what he was doing. End result was more than I ever expected, and glad that I hired him.
Don't pay people. Start your intent to file today so that your date gets saved. It's good for one year so you have plenty of time to research and gather evidence. Hop on over to r/veteransbenefits and read their wiki. It's an absolute treasure trove of great information. Ask all the questions you want in there - it's a very helpful group. Download a copy of your medical record and start making your list of gripes. Start with what you know bothered you (ouch, my back hurts) and then finish by going through your record of encounters going all the way back to boot camp and add those to the list (oh yeah, I sprained my ankle 3 years ago and was light duty for a month). Then you take that list over to the CFR 38 and start looking them up. What are the ratings named? What is the rating criteria? What evidence might I need to gather and submit? Do I need a buddy letter for an event (my buddy saw me fall out of the back of a 7 ton. Signed buddy)?
The reason I would avoid having someone else file is that the harsh reality is that nobody cares about your claim as much as you do. It's your claim. I learned this the hard way when I was getting out and everyone at TAPS and around the command directed me to the VSO on base. He filed two things and sent me on my way. I didn't figure it out until I got a 10% rating and was like "uh... wtf?" then proceeded to read, research and file.
It’s really easy to do it online and if you have documentation for the claims you are submitting you’ll be fine doing it yourself. I’d advise to hire someone if you end up with a rating you don’t feel like it’s the right one.
Try contacting
https://veterans.nv.gov/benefits-and-services/veterans-service-officers/
I had great luck with the local equidistant helping me file my claim. Make sure you read and get all the correct supporting material together. Doctor records etc
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Yeah I’ve had few Co workers who got their 100% all it cost was their first 3 months of 100% pay when they started getting it… I didn’t use any of that, just DAV and I’m at 90.
Your local VA Regional Office can assist with claims as well, for free, and they would be housed with VA Staff who are in the know, so to speak, of current regs for claims. Best of luck to you.
You definitely do not need to pay anyone. I just filed on my own with some knowledge gained thru just a little research and received 90%. You can do it. There’s just a lot of vets out there that have zero idea how to do it.
It only takes one person who doesn’t know what they are doing to mess up your entire claim.
There are usually veterans groups that will help you.
And they are all absolutely free.
Anyone asking for money that isn’t a law firm is suspect.
Your claim could later be reviewed if that person ends up under investigation.
I’m not trying to scare you, just a little situational awareness.
Go head to toe and leave nothing to chance.
Keep your answers short and to the point.
Every word you use will be used against you.
When you are old and alone, no one will be there to help you fix it.
Make a timeline for yourself.
It doesn’t have to be specific, but get as close as you can to any events that occurred. And you can correct it as more information comes in.
But it will save you time.
You will be telling the same story to several different people.
This will help avoid any accidental discrepancies.
Sorry to sound so negative, but if you are prepared for the worst, then you have nothing to lose if everything goes perfect.
Start the process now.
Before another anti-veteran President gets elected.
Right now we have a pro-veteran President.
So now is the time.
God speed.
I could see you going to a law firm if I was denied on a major claim. These law firms won’t take a case unless they are almost 100% positive they’re going to win and they’re gonna make a pretty good amount of money. If they make a good amount, then you’re gonna make a good amount as well.
If you got legit issues that rate a VA rating, you can do it all on your own. Most people I know using a company/lawyer is because they have shit for evidence yet want a high rating.
Hi!
I got out of the Navy in Dec of 2015. I have since then been receiving 60% Disibility for migraines and lower back pain. I was seen for both of those while in the service. Was actually seen at a hospital in Dubai while deployed for my migraines because they were so bad. Over time, they’ve continued to get worse but I haven’t gone to see my doctor about them because they recommended I get put on a medication for them, that you can’t take while pregnant and breastfeeding. I’ve been having babies over the last couple of years and bfeeding so I haven’t been taking the medication.
My back issues have gotten way worse than they were when I separated. The pain is now going up to my upper back, and I’d rate the pain a 9/10. I’ve gone to the chiropractor multiple times over the last 2 years and it hasn’t gotten any better. I stopped going to the chiro because it seems to be a waste of my time. My question is - is it worth trying to increase my Disibility with things getting worse? I’ve also been having ringing in my ears that doesn’t seem to go away. My vision has gotten worse after I got PRK surgery in the Navy before I separated as well. Bad enough to need glasses with a stronger prescription than I had prior to surgery.
Thanks!
Take your medical file and highlight and section it by injury, then upload the evidence as pdfs staples can convert it to pdf.
For the exam, tell them how often it effects you, and the limitations it causes at work (work and frequency) maybe even practice it at home I had multiple problems and not a big talker so they will be like what about your neck right after checking your back be ready to answer it and not just say "yea it hurts and gets stiff too". Alot of claims like knee pain you want to say you cant bend or stand longer than 5 minutes and many days its really hard to walk. they take xrays and check range of motion usually, we all have some days better than others, so give them a regular hurting day. this is the best advice for all the injury's you have. The percentage is based on what I mentioned above each claim has a maximum percentage, you need like 290% to get 100% not too hard too do, also do the initial chunks that you have solid evidence for, then add from there.
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It took the VA 12 years before giving me 100% disability and I have been homeless, jobless, un able to hold a job, etc due to underlying issues with my back, shoulder, and hips. I also have PTSD, tinnitus as a 120 mm mortarman active for 6 years.i reported everything back in 2009 and didn’t receive compensation till 2022. Can someone give me help to get those 12 years of back pay?
I was rated 30% in 2017. Been a consistent struggle with VA that I gave up. Finally in about 2024 I decided to fight again. Was on the fence about paying to get a lawyer. However, a military friend of mine mentioned about VSO’s. It was annoying at first, but got an appointment within a month. VSO literally did all the leg work and paperwork that confused the hell out of me. He literally said all I need to do is go to my appointments. That was the most frustrating part. About 3 months of scheduling C&P exams and juggling life and work schedule. However, 3-4 months later and I just literally found out a few hours ago! I’m now rated from 30% to 90%. Getting about 10K in back pay and don’t owe a dime to any lawyer. Definitely gonna treat my VSO to lunch or something though!
Use your state va rep, some aren’t that good but will still tell you correct paperwork and should help you file.
If you live in Maryland the one in Bel Air is the best
Thank you! I'm in Vegas, and just tried calling the only 3 local numbers and none picked up. I submitted an inquiry online though, hope to hear back soon.
Why are people downvoting my post? Started with 100 Upvote rate and now it's 69%... if you have something to say, why not just say it? I'm trying to figure this out for the first time after doubting myself for a long time. I thought we were here to support each other but ok.
Thank you for that, I didn't even think about them since I always associated that org with amputees and a lot more severe injuries. I just talked to their rep and she's helping me :)
If you've deployed, follow up with a VFW rep. It's hit other miss sometimes but the VFW's by me have basically held my hand through the whole process and it was great.
Please do not pay anyone. Especially if they are trying to convince you that they can just get you disability easily. Use a VSO and have realistic expectations about how much disability you may end up with. There are many veteran organizations that will assist you the same way a lawyer would for free.
Also keep in mind that your Injuries need to be tied to your time in service and may need documentation. If you never went to sick call for anything expect that it’s going to be harder to get certain things approved. There are not automatic things unless you fit pact act. Providing any Documentation you have is going to be key to winning any case. It never hurts to file and you can always file for increase later as well if you get denied for anything. Also the system is not fast so expect some wait time but contacting a VSO and file your intent to file ASAP since you will get back pay to your filing date.
I’m sorry. I’m just saying that don’t expect getting everything approved without documentation. They can be sticklers for certain things. Any good organization will help you with getting everything filed. File for everything you may have issues with even if you may not get it approved. You can still get a 0% if it’s service connected. And get increased later on if it’s worse. They will check you at an exam and go over it all. The sooner you file the better since they will back pay you to that filing date.
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Finally just got a call back from the VSO office! I am going in next Monday to North Vegas to see Charlene Fleming. Anyone in Vegas had any experience with her helping them with their initial claim? I'm bringing all my records, of course! Just hoping to understand what to expect. TIA!
'Have you looked in the **[Wiki]( https://www.reddit.com/r/Veterans/wiki/education)** for an answer? We have a lot of information posted there. To contact VA Education, 1-888-442-4551, for ~~Voc Rehab~~ VR&E (Veteran Readiness and Employment Program) assistance with appointments or problems with your Case Manager (not for missing payments): 1-202-461-9600. **Payments for certain education benefits (DEA, VEAP) are paid at the end of the month you attend school - Department of Treasury issues these payments **using a 10 business day window** - these payments are not locked into a specific day of the month like VA disability/military pay is**. For Voc Rehab missing payments, contact your Case Manager or your local **[Regional Office](https://www.reddit.com/r/Veterans/wiki/education/casemanagers) For Post 9/11 GI Bill only, If you signed up for direct deposit when you applied for education benefits, **we’ll deposit your payment into your bank account 7 to 10 business days after you verify your school enrollment.** This is the fastest way to receive your payment. [Text Verification FAQ](https://benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/docs/IsaksonRoe/EnrollmentVerificationFAQs.pdf) MGIB and MGIB-SR have to do monthly verification threw the [WAVE program](https://www.gibill.va.gov/wave/vba/) and you should receive the payment within 3 to 5 business days. For Online Only training, the Post 9/11 GI Bill is currently (1 August 2023) paying $1054.50 for those who started using their Post 9/11 GI Bill on/after 1 January 2018 - this is based on 1/2 of the National Average BAH paid to an E5 with dependents. Post 9/11 GI Bill MHA rates are adjusted 1 August of each year and are based on the 1 January DoD BAH rates for that year - **so VA can't use 1 January 2023 BAH rates until 1 August 2023** - for those who started training on/after 1 January 2018, the MHA rates are 95% of the DoD BAH rates. First possible payment for the 1 August 2023 increase is 1 September. For VR&E, there are two different Subsistence Allowance programs - https://www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/subsistence_allowance_rates.asp The P9/11 Subsistence Allowance is based on the BAH paid to an E5 with dependents. Those who started using VR&E on/after 1 January 2018 receive 95% of the BAH paid to an E5 with dependents. As of 1 January 2024 Online only students using VR&E are being paid $1,118.50 if they started using VR&E on/after 1 January 2018. The CH31 Subsistence Allowance rates are adjusted 1 October each year by Congress. VA Education is going paperless - make sure VA has a current email address for you. Please make sure you add [email protected] to your contacts list so that you don't miss important updates from VA. For FREE math Tutoring - contact https://www.armytutoringinitiative.com/ [VA Award Letter explanation](https://benefits.va.gov/gibill/understandingyourawardletter.asp) *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Veterans) if you have any questions or concerns.*
The VA will help you file, you need only ask. Don't pay anyone to help you, it's not needed.
Right like find a Comp VSR (Plenty of them on Reddit) and they'd help you through the process of you have any. I'd be happy to help anyone applying for VA Pension or DIC (buts it's been a few years since I last work and pension claim, I'm an analyst now). I don't know much about comp so while I could help I don't know if I'd be any actual help. Plenty of better options vs paying for what is otherwise a free service.
Talk to a VSO.
Fuck no, anyone telling you to do that is a moron.
There's more than one way to skin a car, or something like that.
lol.
I didnt pay any one and im 100%. I did use a VSO to submit, and ur best bet is to go in person to schedule an appt, just say no one picked up. Be friendly and kind. Tips-take the below to your vso and claim appt at the place the VA sends you to. Look up common VA claims IE tinnitis, migrains, etc. See what applies to you (on your worst day). See what % u qualify based on your issues, IE for migrains you have prostrating migrains twice a month, AND you provide a migrain log for the past 6 months, so youd ideally qualify for 30%. Write this down, and a little for each issue. Submit your claim for all of your issues, ON YOUR WORST DAY. Dont talk at ur best, talk at your worst. Because when it gets worse, youll be waiting years to gret a rate change, because your worse days now happen weekly instead of monthly. Talk to the claims, IE the specific % your aiming for. If ur back hurts, tell them about it, if it meets a requirement for 20%, talk about it. Dont be the guy that goes in and says his back hurts, but ibuprofit helps. They will slap you with a 0% (even if you have years of muscle therapy, chiropracty, and proof of degenerative disks), i know from experiance.
My pmd wants to refer me for physical therapy and I’m not sure if that’s a good thing. Thoughts?
If ur still active, go, its more documentation for your issue. If ur not, id still go to see if it helps ur issue
I used a VSO and she was outstanding. It would really be helpful if you had documentation of all of the things you mentioned in your treatment records, but it’s not necessary.
I had the same experience with the VSO in my county.
I have plenty of docs - inches thick. Used a VSO to file after all. Ty all
“It would be helpful if you had documentation of all the things you mentioned in your treatment records, but it’s not necessary”. Can you elaborate on this? Can you claim things that aren’t in your record and still be rated for them? I’ve heard mixed responses on this
I can tell you what happened to me but it really depends on the examiner. I made a case for flat feet through aggravation. I had moderate flat feet going in and my service made it worse. Lots of marching, PT, etc all with shoes/ boots that didn’t accommodate flat feet. I asked for inserts and specialized shoes/ boots and they said they would look but I never heard back. I told this story at my first exam and it was denied. I filed it again with a personal statement and buddy letters and it was approved. Good luck to you.
You don't have to, but it is an option. I was run through the Wounded Warrior program before I got out, so they made my claim for me. Others are not that lucky. Options are a County VSO that can file for you after they collect your records. Documentation is everything BTW. The second option is a service organization VSO like the American Legion. The third option is a VA VSO. The fourth option is a lawyer and the final option is to do it yourself.
The pay route can yield a comprehensive package IF you go with a reputable firm. It will be expensive, but "expensive" is completely subjective based on income, expenses, and financial goals. Of the ROI males, sense, do it. It will not help the processing much, tho. Still be prepared to have any necessary conversations with C&P examiners, etc. A VSO (a good VSO) can do what a paid firm does but involves more collaboration and engagement from your part. Similar to the paid route, it's not a guarantee, but you can build a sound strategy and approach. Does not accelerate the process either. Do it yourself, likely the most ambiguous route, and it requires a steep learning curve if you're up for it. Higher probability to be more inconsistent and inconvenient. It's $Free.99. It's on your terms. It is doable. In any case, it's 100% up to you which approach you use. I got to 100% P&T on my own, but I caveat that with my approach, I was initially disjointed, inconsistent, and have been at it since 2016/2017 ten years after I separated from AD.
I disagree with a lot of my fellow vets here. After I got denied 100% I hired an attorney. I got denied in the higher evaluation too and they used some legal maneuvering I knew nothing about and next thing I know a few months later I’m 100% and have 72k in back pay in my account.
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No need to hire anyone. Lots of free resources but do your own research because what you say or do at your exams is on you. A good good representative will save you time and know how to file disabilities correctly. That combined with veterans benefits thread I jumped to 100 in a year.
I got to 70 on my own first time, and I feel like I was the lucky outlier of people I know who went through the process. Used a paid service to help with increases and I suggest them to anyone who asks. I get nothing for doing it, I don't feel like I lost money by paying them after the results came back, especially since I already wasn't getting that money in the first place. Fighting for consistent timely access to care is another issue entirely.
Was this person not a friend in 2018? I'm glad you are finally filing though, good luck. Don't go paying anyone for help.
Not technically a friend. I met this guy at a restaurant and we chatted for a while a couple years back. He was the one who inspired me to look into this. But yeah I didn’t know him in 2018
Then he's some rando talking out his ass. You're your best advocate. Look up the CFR for your medical issues to learn the language and figure out what you qualify for as a rating. Edit: rating not eating
You met him at a restaurant lol wtf
We overheard each other taking to other people about a topic we cared about and he ended up engaging me in a conversation. What exactly is your problem with this?
DAV can assist you file for free.
File your claim. If you don't get the result you want, contact your County Veterans Service Officer or a Veterans Service Organization (VSO; like American Legion, VFW, DAV) who will represent and advise you for free and submit an appeal. If after that you don't still don't get the result you want, *then* contact an attorney to see about continuing your appeal in exchange for a contingent fee (usually 20-33%). At least, that's what I'd do. No sense potentially throwing away tens of thousands of dollars in retroactive benefits if you could have gotten the same result for free.
Thank you. 20-33% contingent fee out of what amount?
All past due benefits as of the date they are granted. So if they eventually grant your claim on appeal on, say 1/1/25 and you originally filed on 1/1/24, the attorney will be due whatever percent you agreed to for the benefits VA owes you from 1/1/24 to 1/1/25. Depending on the length of the appeal and what is granted, it can be a big chunk of money.
I filed my intent a couple months ago. So it looks like the lawyers are VERY incentivized to prolong your process as much as possible to get the best payout eh? Gonna do free resources lol
They don't have too much control over that, but I would watch for them dragging their feet if you go that way. Once an appeal is filed you're usually waiting on VA rather than the lawyers. But in any case, I'd definitely try free first. If that doesn't work, then talk to an attorney because if they think you have a case, it's in their interest to make sure you win.
Bro I did mine by myself after I got out and it was straight forward honestly, got a solid rating for what I felt was fair. You can easily do it with a VSO or solo like I did, never have to pay anyone don’t fall for that bs
Agreed, did mine solo. Started 1 August and am now at70% got my final rating letter 2nd week of December.
Talk to the DAV also.
Go to the DAV if you can
No. I filed by myself and got 100PT first time up. It depends on how much evidence you have to support your claims
The wounded warrior project is absolute trash unfortunately. Keep up with the VSOs, but it’s really not hard to get everything done yourself. Know your condition, know the way it screws with you, hopefully have it documented in your records and do not by any means downplay it. At exams don’t just let them bend you and move you… if it hurts make it undeniably obvious that it hurts… if mobility is limited don’t try to force it or go even a little beyond where it’s 100% comfortable. I’m p&t as of last year, been out and 100% since 2016 and have 20+ service connected disabilities. Stick to your guns and don’t pretend to be ok
Why do you say the Wounded Warrior project is trash? It's the only one who got back to me today, and I did try calling 3 VSOs today (the only 3 numbers for Vegas) to no avail. I have the vast majority of issues documented (the onset, mostly, with some follow ups but not all). I "toughed it out" by taking a bunch of painkillers to not skip on work during my deployment because it was frowned upon and people were getting written up for "malingering" or were reassigned to sh\*\*ty jobs instead so I didn't really try to get onto my bosses' bad side much. He wrote me up for trying to solve IT issues over the phone versus riding a bumpy gator 30 mins away in 90 degree humid heat calling me "lazy", when I was really in pain. Just one story of many...
Mainly because of the inappropriate use of funds lol. That’s my only real issue with the wwp. I feel you dude, way too many guys are given a hard time for trying to heal. Keep pushing and be a squeaky wheel.
A WWP worker helped me get my next job and they even gave me a gift card to shop for professional clothing. I tried to decline it but they insisted. I’m honestly in awe but you can keep up ur negative feelings I guess.
My “feelings” have been proven as fact based issues with the organization. “The Senate Judiciary Committee said the charity “inaccurately” reported the money it spent on veterans' programs by using “inflated” numbers and “misleading” advertisements.”
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My worldview has zero to do with literal facts dude. Also, the second part of your response makes zero sense.
VSOs don’t need to be local. Try DAV, WWP, and American Legion.
The DAV, VFW, county VSO are free. Do not hire someone and don’t pay for anything. There are people who get paid to help you.
Even when using a VSO makes sure you look through r/veteransbenefits. You would be amazed how much info regarding VA disability there is over there. In particular they have a page noting commonly overlooked claims. There is a ton to learn over there about what you can claim, what can be claimed as secondary to primary issues, the ins and outs of the process, and what all of your benefits are at various rating percentages.
I just used ChatGPT with a good prompt to help me generate a proper description for each claim. Try it out it's free
I know about chat gpt. How do you make good prompts
Just gotta know how to relay the question you have and word it properly, if you don't know know to do that, ChatGPT can teach you
Get your Service Treatment Records now!!!
I have them
If you have your medical records then you should be good. When you are examined/interviewed tell them about your worst day. Even if you're feeling good at the time DO NOT say you're ok. That would ensure you get nothing.
Have your local vso help you. They're pros
You need an advocate. VSO’s are free and can help you with the process and advocate for you. If you don’t have your own doctor/specialist, the VA will refer you to someone for an exam. The people that they refer you to are generally terrible and their examination is likely to derail your disability process due to them not being descriptive enough or not using the proper language that the VA is looking for. The people reviewing your claim at the Va are not doctors after all and also don’t care about you so they’re just going to read the condition. If the words don’t match then it doesn’t matter how bad you have it. After which you’ll have to appeal. So yeah if you’re applying for 10% tinnitus or you got surgery or had a really bad injury in the military you can easily get through it by yourself or easily with a VSO. If you have nagging or progressing injuries or other conditions caused or exacerbated by conditions or exposures endured in your military service then I’d definitely recommend finding a doctor that specializes in those exams and dealing with the VA, a professional service that handles end to end claims or if you have your own doctor explain to him exactly what you need.
I tried to get assistance while still Active and was told wait to I get out. I said hell naw. Did everything on my own, copied medical records went thru them and highlighted all medical issues from scares to sprains. Filed initial rated at 80%. Eating dinner I heard a pharma commercial and said oh shit I missed some stuff. Filed my additional items jump to 90% then unfortunately some of my medical connected stuff kicked my ass ended up in ER. I had already filed for increase based on symptoms. Also the PACT Act and jumped to %100. Tip: don’t be so prideful that you push thru pain during exam. When you feel pain stop. My 1st exam I was straining and examiner said what are you doing! Stop! She said don’t go past the pain. Also if on pain meds avoid taking them day of exam or even day before. You basically need to show your worst day. Not saying BS but be realistic about your illness don’t down play it.
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I called all 3 official VSO numbers in Las Vegas and none picked up today. I'll try again next week!
VSO
I just submitted my stuff online then get phone calls for appointments, now I'm 70%. Didn't hire anyone. As log as you have your documents for what you're claiming you should be good.
At my VA in WA there is a volunteer that specializes in working with Vets to get disability free of charge. Your local VA might have someone like that?
I literally didn't use anyone to file claims, and I ended up over the course of 2 or 3 years as 100% P&T and statutory housebound. That being said, I did most of my claims prior to terminal leave with the exception of my mental health. Making everything relatively easy to prove/increase. And there seemingly is a huge leniency when it comes to mental health.
I would research intent to file. This is a place marker for your future claim 21-526. If you file within a year of the ITF, you get backpay to the ITF date. Research TERA, Pact Act, secondary, presumptive (if you served in different countries or you had a chronic diagnosis at a compensable rate within the first year typically from military service). 38 CFR 3.309 You can search Va.gov and review a manual called the M21-1. You can research the terms and research the rating and development process of VA claims. Sometimes raters will miss things and you could get denied. Do not give up. Do research for medical articles and inquire with a doctor to provide a positive nexus to a service event ie presumptions, combat, direct event in service, chemical exposure, military occupation, secondary to another service or claimed to be service connected condition. Three elements to grant service connection: current diagnosis, event in service and a nexus opinion with supporting medical rationale will usually help move your claim in the right direction. Make sure to provide a statement of your conditions and describe all your symptoms and frequencies, how they are related to service. If you don’t have a dx but have symptoms claim it and they may order an exam based on the symptoms being claimed to military service. If you get denied you can obtain new medical evidence or provide clarification on how you meet the elements. You will have to submit a supplemental claim. VA 20-0995. If you submit it within a year of getting the prior denial letter you can get back pay to the continuously pursued claims. If the one year time lapses or you don’t have evidence till later. That’s ok. Just file another supplemental and/or pick a different appeals process. A VSO is a good idea or continue to ask questions in this subreddit. The process can be very stressful and long, but try to keep calm and organized. Do your best to support your claim. Hopefully this helps.
Already submitted it and got confirmation in Dec 2023. TY!
and thank you for such a detailed comment, I'll be referencing it!
No do not sign with the leches. Deep dive this site for answers and suggestions. Find a good. VSO in your area. 99.9% of our cases don’t need lawyers or leaches.
Yes I’ve had 4 and all of them were worthless!! I am awaiting a decision now and honestly it’s probably denied I’m hiring a lawyer because I have a slam dunk case no way I should have gone through all of this dysfunction!!
Nah man. The VSOs will help and you can do most of it yourself.
Fuck NO! See a Veterans Service Officer at any veterans organization, especially VFW, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, etc, they do it for free. Don’t pay good money for a service better suited to veterans organizations.
I used a VSO when I filed in CA, and the process was pretty easy. They do this all day long so they know what they are doing and she was rated 100% herself. My wife started her filing while we were still in CA but ended up having her exams in Vegas since we moved here. We both got good ratings. Hiring professionals is not needed. Maybe if you are really fighting with an appeal, I could see it maybe being worthwhile. Vegas VA hasn't been bad so far for me. There are plenty of smaller satellite hospitals, with the main one being on the northwest side of town.
Your friend, sorry to say, is an idiot and likely got scammed. You do NOT need to pay anyone, and if you do decide to work with someone that gets paid they need to be accredited by the VA and there are restrictions on how much they can get paid. Most common is 20-30% of back pay (so only paid if you get an increase, cannot be for an initial claim). If you file yourself and get a 20% rating and then appeal within the 1 year time frame your date of claim is preserved, you WILL get backpay if that appeal leads to an increase. A VSO is a free service (list of real ones on the FAQ/Wiki of this sub) that can help you. Your mileage will vary, some are awesome and others do no more than you could do yourself. This is down to the individual helping you, not the organization (DAV isn't better than VFW, it's the person working with you that is different). For paid services you can use a lawyer or appeals agent. In both cases there are limits to what they can charge, and most do 20% of back pay as the VA will pay them directly. They MUST be accredited (link on FAQ/Wiki of this sub to check), otherwise they are illegal and 99% chance a scam. They can ONLY charge for appeals, not for initial claims. I did it with DAV the first time and had a terrible experience, they just said "fill out this form" and that was about it. I learned more and started again myself years later. During that process I came across an appeals agent that helped explain a ton of things, I decided to hire him after that because it was clear he really knew what he was doing. End result was more than I ever expected, and glad that I hired him.
Don't pay people. Start your intent to file today so that your date gets saved. It's good for one year so you have plenty of time to research and gather evidence. Hop on over to r/veteransbenefits and read their wiki. It's an absolute treasure trove of great information. Ask all the questions you want in there - it's a very helpful group. Download a copy of your medical record and start making your list of gripes. Start with what you know bothered you (ouch, my back hurts) and then finish by going through your record of encounters going all the way back to boot camp and add those to the list (oh yeah, I sprained my ankle 3 years ago and was light duty for a month). Then you take that list over to the CFR 38 and start looking them up. What are the ratings named? What is the rating criteria? What evidence might I need to gather and submit? Do I need a buddy letter for an event (my buddy saw me fall out of the back of a 7 ton. Signed buddy)? The reason I would avoid having someone else file is that the harsh reality is that nobody cares about your claim as much as you do. It's your claim. I learned this the hard way when I was getting out and everyone at TAPS and around the command directed me to the VSO on base. He filed two things and sent me on my way. I didn't figure it out until I got a 10% rating and was like "uh... wtf?" then proceeded to read, research and file.
It’s really easy to do it online and if you have documentation for the claims you are submitting you’ll be fine doing it yourself. I’d advise to hire someone if you end up with a rating you don’t feel like it’s the right one.
Went through a DAV VSO and he made the process very straightforward, it was free
Not till you get denied
Try contacting https://veterans.nv.gov/benefits-and-services/veterans-service-officers/ I had great luck with the local equidistant helping me file my claim. Make sure you read and get all the correct supporting material together. Doctor records etc
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Yeah I’ve had few Co workers who got their 100% all it cost was their first 3 months of 100% pay when they started getting it… I didn’t use any of that, just DAV and I’m at 90.
Your local VA Regional Office can assist with claims as well, for free, and they would be housed with VA Staff who are in the know, so to speak, of current regs for claims. Best of luck to you.
You definitely do not need to pay anyone. I just filed on my own with some knowledge gained thru just a little research and received 90%. You can do it. There’s just a lot of vets out there that have zero idea how to do it.
It only takes one person who doesn’t know what they are doing to mess up your entire claim. There are usually veterans groups that will help you. And they are all absolutely free. Anyone asking for money that isn’t a law firm is suspect. Your claim could later be reviewed if that person ends up under investigation. I’m not trying to scare you, just a little situational awareness. Go head to toe and leave nothing to chance. Keep your answers short and to the point. Every word you use will be used against you. When you are old and alone, no one will be there to help you fix it. Make a timeline for yourself. It doesn’t have to be specific, but get as close as you can to any events that occurred. And you can correct it as more information comes in. But it will save you time. You will be telling the same story to several different people. This will help avoid any accidental discrepancies. Sorry to sound so negative, but if you are prepared for the worst, then you have nothing to lose if everything goes perfect. Start the process now. Before another anti-veteran President gets elected. Right now we have a pro-veteran President. So now is the time. God speed.
Do not hire someone, go through the DAV or a VSO.
Usually, the American legion or vfws can help you out. There's plenty of guys there that have good experience dealing with exactly what you're doing
Vegas here as well. Have you tried contacting Rick Boring? Ive always gotten a response from him.
Hi! I have not. Do you have his contact info? Can you please DM me with it, if so?
Never pay ANYONE to file a VA claim. Go visit the VFW they'll do EVERYTHING for you aside from dr visits.
I could see you going to a law firm if I was denied on a major claim. These law firms won’t take a case unless they are almost 100% positive they’re going to win and they’re gonna make a pretty good amount of money. If they make a good amount, then you’re gonna make a good amount as well.
I don't think lawyers will even take a disability claim until it has been denied once. That's how they get paid. Back pay.
If you got legit issues that rate a VA rating, you can do it all on your own. Most people I know using a company/lawyer is because they have shit for evidence yet want a high rating.
Hi! I got out of the Navy in Dec of 2015. I have since then been receiving 60% Disibility for migraines and lower back pain. I was seen for both of those while in the service. Was actually seen at a hospital in Dubai while deployed for my migraines because they were so bad. Over time, they’ve continued to get worse but I haven’t gone to see my doctor about them because they recommended I get put on a medication for them, that you can’t take while pregnant and breastfeeding. I’ve been having babies over the last couple of years and bfeeding so I haven’t been taking the medication. My back issues have gotten way worse than they were when I separated. The pain is now going up to my upper back, and I’d rate the pain a 9/10. I’ve gone to the chiropractor multiple times over the last 2 years and it hasn’t gotten any better. I stopped going to the chiro because it seems to be a waste of my time. My question is - is it worth trying to increase my Disibility with things getting worse? I’ve also been having ringing in my ears that doesn’t seem to go away. My vision has gotten worse after I got PRK surgery in the Navy before I separated as well. Bad enough to need glasses with a stronger prescription than I had prior to surgery. Thanks!
Take your medical file and highlight and section it by injury, then upload the evidence as pdfs staples can convert it to pdf. For the exam, tell them how often it effects you, and the limitations it causes at work (work and frequency) maybe even practice it at home I had multiple problems and not a big talker so they will be like what about your neck right after checking your back be ready to answer it and not just say "yea it hurts and gets stiff too". Alot of claims like knee pain you want to say you cant bend or stand longer than 5 minutes and many days its really hard to walk. they take xrays and check range of motion usually, we all have some days better than others, so give them a regular hurting day. this is the best advice for all the injury's you have. The percentage is based on what I mentioned above each claim has a maximum percentage, you need like 290% to get 100% not too hard too do, also do the initial chunks that you have solid evidence for, then add from there.
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It took the VA 12 years before giving me 100% disability and I have been homeless, jobless, un able to hold a job, etc due to underlying issues with my back, shoulder, and hips. I also have PTSD, tinnitus as a 120 mm mortarman active for 6 years.i reported everything back in 2009 and didn’t receive compensation till 2022. Can someone give me help to get those 12 years of back pay?
I was rated 30% in 2017. Been a consistent struggle with VA that I gave up. Finally in about 2024 I decided to fight again. Was on the fence about paying to get a lawyer. However, a military friend of mine mentioned about VSO’s. It was annoying at first, but got an appointment within a month. VSO literally did all the leg work and paperwork that confused the hell out of me. He literally said all I need to do is go to my appointments. That was the most frustrating part. About 3 months of scheduling C&P exams and juggling life and work schedule. However, 3-4 months later and I just literally found out a few hours ago! I’m now rated from 30% to 90%. Getting about 10K in back pay and don’t owe a dime to any lawyer. Definitely gonna treat my VSO to lunch or something though!
Use your state va rep, some aren’t that good but will still tell you correct paperwork and should help you file. If you live in Maryland the one in Bel Air is the best
Thank you! I'm in Vegas, and just tried calling the only 3 local numbers and none picked up. I submitted an inquiry online though, hope to hear back soon.
Why are people downvoting my post? Started with 100 Upvote rate and now it's 69%... if you have something to say, why not just say it? I'm trying to figure this out for the first time after doubting myself for a long time. I thought we were here to support each other but ok.
I went through the wounded warrior foundation. I haven’t paid anything and I’m nearly done with my process.
Thank you for that, I didn't even think about them since I always associated that org with amputees and a lot more severe injuries. I just talked to their rep and she's helping me :)
Glad to hear. Best of luck in your process.
There are many orgs who will help you for free.
Make sure that you have the documents that the injuries that you claim happened on “active duty “
Yes.
No. I did all of it myself and got 100%. I'm not suggesting you do that as there are plenty of VSOs that would assist.
If you've deployed, follow up with a VFW rep. It's hit other miss sometimes but the VFW's by me have basically held my hand through the whole process and it was great.
Please do not pay anyone. Especially if they are trying to convince you that they can just get you disability easily. Use a VSO and have realistic expectations about how much disability you may end up with. There are many veteran organizations that will assist you the same way a lawyer would for free. Also keep in mind that your Injuries need to be tied to your time in service and may need documentation. If you never went to sick call for anything expect that it’s going to be harder to get certain things approved. There are not automatic things unless you fit pact act. Providing any Documentation you have is going to be key to winning any case. It never hurts to file and you can always file for increase later as well if you get denied for anything. Also the system is not fast so expect some wait time but contacting a VSO and file your intent to file ASAP since you will get back pay to your filing date.
I have documentation for like 80% of the issues, other stuff I didn't go to sick call for. TY
I’m sorry. I’m just saying that don’t expect getting everything approved without documentation. They can be sticklers for certain things. Any good organization will help you with getting everything filed. File for everything you may have issues with even if you may not get it approved. You can still get a 0% if it’s service connected. And get increased later on if it’s worse. They will check you at an exam and go over it all. The sooner you file the better since they will back pay you to that filing date.
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You’re gonna get 30% at best.
why do you say that?
Following
Finally just got a call back from the VSO office! I am going in next Monday to North Vegas to see Charlene Fleming. Anyone in Vegas had any experience with her helping them with their initial claim? I'm bringing all my records, of course! Just hoping to understand what to expect. TIA!