How To Get Assistance With Your VA Claim: Help Is Out There!
The Department of Veterans Affairs, or VA, is a vital source of assistance for veterans who experience service-related disabilities. If you are a veteran, and you sustained an injury or disease while serving our country, the government has set up a system that will help you get the benefits you deserve. With the right information and assistance from your local VA facility, it’s possible to receive financial compensation for your injuries without having to hire an attorney. Read more about getting help with your VA claim in this blog post: VA Claim Coach: 3 Reasons Why You Should Use One.
What is the VA and What Is A VA Claim?
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is a federal government organization that provides a wide range of benefits to veterans. The VA provides healthcare and other services at VA medical centers around the country and online. There are agencies that also help veterans to file disability compensation claims.Veterans who have been injured on active duty can qualify for disability benefits from the VA. The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) determines the amount of disability benefits that a veteran will receive based on the severity of the injury.
Learn About the Compensation Process Before Filing Your VA Claim
Before you start a new job, you should learn about your benefits as soon as possible. The sooner you understand the process, the sooner you can get the help you need. Disability compensation through the VA is a three-step process:Veterans can submit their claims online. It’s a good idea to print out a copy of the claim form, so you can fill it out using a pen. The next step is to get a medical exam to prove your disability. The VA provides this examination if there is enough evidence to support your VA claim. Once you complete your exam, the VA will work to finish your claim.
Here’s what you need to know:
The exam is performed by a VA doctor, but you can choose your preferred location.- You can also choose your preferred exam date. Once the exam is done, the VA will review your claim.
A Roadmap To Completing Your VA Claim
The VA’s website has lots of information on how you can file a claim for benefits. While the process isn’t complicated, it can be easy to get lost in the details. If you’re having trouble with your claim, you have options. Here are some ways to get help with your claim:
Seek Advice From A Veterans Service Officer (VSO):
Veterans service officers are government employees who are there to help you understand your options. If you have questions about filing a claim, a veterans service officer will help.
Ask Your Doctor For Help:
If you have questions about your condition, or you’re not sure how to explain it, ask your doctor. Doctors see claims every day, and they can help you get the best result.- Ask A Family Member For Advice: Family members don’t always know about the VA process, but they are often happy to help. If you’re not sure about your options, ask for help.
Get A VA Claims Coach:
You will find that VSOs are often overworked and underpaid. They will often assist you in preparing your claim, but after that you are on your own. They don’t discuss how disabilities rate, what the C&P examination is or what it entails. They also do not provide real “individual” attention. They just don’t have the cycles. Therefore, try to get an advocate for your claim, and they will spend the time with you to educate you for the process. A VA Claims Coach can educate you on the process and let you know things like what is required on a lay letter, but may not prepare, present, or prosecute your claim.
Conclusion
The VA is a great resource for veterans who have been injured during their service. If you were injured, such as a neck or back injury, there is help available for you. Make sure you know how to get disability benefits and what you need to do to complete your claim. Follow the steps outlined above, and you will have a successful claim.
To discuss your options, the Blue Cord Patriots offers free 30 minute sessions with no obligation. The Blue Cord Patriots will discuss your individual case, and your VA claim. During this session, you will get a strategy and better understand the process. You can sign up for one of these sessions here.